China’s Profound Way to Reduce Student Stress

New education policies by the Chinese government are promoting more sleep, less homework and shortening the screen time in which students study. This will reduce stress, promote mental health, and assist young learners to lead a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.

The Ministry of Education (MOE) says the new measures are a part of a nationwide effort to make learning “happier, healthier, and more effective”. 

“More Sleep, Less Screen Time”: A New Way of Learning

According to the MOE, schools across China must follow these guidelines: 

• Limit how much homework students receive each day. 
• Encourage at least two hours of physical activity during school time. 
• Restrict or ban mobile phones in classrooms. 
• Introduce “screen-free” periods during the day. 
• Make sure students get enough sleep by adjusting school start times and ensuring proper rest breaks. 

According to a senior official at the MOE, Liu Yansong, “Children should not spend all day buried in screens and textbooks”. 

“They need rest, exercise, and family time. These are just as important as good grades”, she said. 

The new policy is part of China’s ongoing campaign to tackle problems caused by academic pressure, digital addiction, and burnout among students. 

Why the Change Was Needed?

Parents and teachers in China have been concerned about the growing pressure among students over the years.

Numerous children spend many hours studying and take up evening or weekend courses to prepare for exams. Such cut-throat competition is detrimental to their bodies and minds.

One of the studies conducted by Beijing Normal University revealed that students who managed to sleep less than eight hours per night were more likely to experience anxiety and poor concentration.

Educational psychologist Dr Li Wen said, “Sleep and mental health are closely linked. When students are tired, they can’t concentrate. They lose motivation and confidence”. 

“Too much phone or tablet use before bed disrupts sleep and reduces learning efficiency. The new guidelines are a smart step forward”, he further added to emphasise the importance of reducing screen time to help students improve focus. 

Balancing Technology and Learning

China’s Ministry of Education has instructed schools to keep technology use under control. Teachers are encouraged to use digital tools for learning, but to avoid unnecessary online assignments or long screen-based activities. 

“Technology is helpful, but it shouldn’t dominate the classroom”, said Zhao Ming, principal of a middle school in Shanghai. 

“We now use project-based learning and group discussions instead of endless PowerPoint lessons. Students are happier and move actively”. 

Parents are also being asked to support these changes at home. The MOE recommends that families set daily screen limits and encourage outdoor activities, reading, and social interaction instead. 

Reducing Homework Pressure

One of the key changes under the new policy is the reduction of excessive homework. Many schools will not limit written assignments, giving students more time to rest and explore personal interests. 

“Children need a balance between study and play”, said Wang Jun, a father of two from Beijing. 

“Before, my daughter used to stay up past 11 PM, finishing homework. Now, she sleeps earlier and wakes up in a better mood”, he further added. 

Instead of focusing on rote memorisation and test drills, schools are now being encouraged to focus on skill development, critical thinking, and creativity. This significantly ensures that learning quality remains high. 

Better Use of Academic Support Services

While the government persistently focused on sleep, they also highlighted the role of support services like tutoring, mentoring, and dissertation writing help. These services can exponentially improve learning outcomes without adding unnecessary stress. 

An education consultant, Emily Chen, said: 

“If students get enough rest and proper guidance, they can use academic writing services to build better study habits, like planning essays, doing research, or improving grammar. It’s all about learning smarter, not working harder”. 

These services are now gradually being integrated into school systems to help students write confidently and independently, rather than copying or cramming under pressure. 

Encouraging Physical Activity

Under the new academic guidelines, schools must also ensure that every student gets at least two hours of physical exercise daily. Activities may include sports, morning jogging, or group games. 

“Exercise helps with focus and emotional health”, said Professor Hu Xia, a physical education expert at Tsinghua University. “When children move their bodies, their brains function much better”. 

Many students have already started introducing fun activities like dance, table tennis, and martial arts sessions to make physical education more enjoyable. 

What Parents and Teachers Say…

Reactions to the new education guidelines have been mostly positive. Teachers say it allows them to focus on quality teaching, and parents appreciate the emphasis on well-being. 

“Education should not make children anxious”, said Principal Lin Mei from Guangzhou. “We want them to love learning, not fear it. This information is a reminder that health and happiness come before grades”. 

However, some parents remain cautious. “The idea is good, but competition is still very strong”, said Mr Zhang, a parent from Shenzhen. “Families need to work together with schools to make these changes last”. 

A Step Toward Healthier Classrooms

The Ministry of Education said it will also monitor progress throughout the year. Officials plan to collect feedback from schools and parents and make adjustments if necessary. 

“Our goal is not only better academic results but better lives”, said MOE spokesperson Chen Zhe. “Education must prepare children for the future, and that includes their emotional and physical well-being”. 

As China’s classrooms shift toward balance and mindfulness, experts say the world could learn from this approach. 

By promoting more sleep, less screen time, and better mental health, China hopes to build a new generation of students who are not only smart but also strong, happy, and ready for life beyond exams.