JAKARTA - In the midst of the increasingly rapid dynamics of urban life, the role of women in the world of work continues to grow. But at the same time, the responsibility for child care remains an irreplaceable priority.
This is where the need for a support system becomes increasingly relevant, especially in the crucial early stages of a child's life.
The opening of Mika Preschool & Daycare BSD, Tangerang is a reflection of the changing needs of modern families. Not only an expansion of services, but also part of a larger conversation, namely how to create an environment that allows women to continue to develop without having to sacrifice their role as parents.
The first thousand days of a child's life to the age of five are often referred to as the golden age, a period where brain development takes place very rapidly. In this phase, stimulation, nutrition, and a safe environment become the main foundation.
Dr. Dewi Kartika Suryani, SpA, pediatrician, emphasized that parenting is not only about fulfilling physical needs.
"In the first two years, the development of the child's brain progresses very quickly, even up to millions of nerve connections are formed every second," said Dr. Dewi at Mika Daycare BSD, Tangerang on Saturday, April 25, 2026.
"Therefore, active stimulation and interaction are much more important than just ensuring that children eat or gain weight," he continued.
He also highlighted the two-way interaction (serve and return) as the key to optimal stimulation, something that cannot be replaced by a screen or passive activity.
In the context of today's family, parenting is no longer a single responsibility. There is a role for spouses, extended families, to institutions such as daycare that complement each other. Marta Yuliana, Co-Founder of Mika Education Center, sees this phenomenon as a real need.
"Many parents, especially mothers, face challenges in balancing professional and family roles. The presence of daycare is expected to be a support system, so that parents can work calmly while children still get a safe environment and support their growth and development," explained Marta.
Marta also emphasized that ideal parenting is not about replacing the role of parents, but rather complementing it.
In terms of the world of work, access to quality childcare contributes directly to the sustainability of women's careers. Without this support, many women are faced with a difficult choice between family and work.
Sriyani Puspa Kinasih, Senior Vice President Human Capital Services Group at a national banking institution, said support for women cannot be separated from support for families.
"Access to quality childcare allows women to continue to contribute optimally, both at home and at work," added Sriyani.
Sriyani added that companies also have an important role in creating an inclusive work environment, including understanding the unique needs of female employees.
The issue of childcare is also closely related to the concept of the care economy, an approach that emphasizes the importance of appreciating care work, including the role of caregivers.
Rini Handayani, Deputy for Child Rights Fulfillment of the Ministry of Empowerment of Women and Child Protection, highlighted the importance of protection and capacity building for caregivers.
"Caregivers are an important part of the caregiving ecosystem. We need to ensure that they get the protection, training, and rewards they deserve, because the quality of caregiving depends a lot on their capacity," he added.
Rini emphasized that the distribution of roles in childcare must be accompanied by fair appreciation, so that a balance can be created between the needs of families and the welfare of care workers.
In practice, modern daycare is no longer seen as a place to entrust children. It has evolved into a learning, socializing, and at the same time, a place for children to build independence from an early age.
A structured environment, consistent routines, and interactions with peers provide experiences that are difficult to obtain if the child is only at home. In fact, simple things like eating together or having a scheduled nap can have a big impact on a child's development.
The balance between career and family may never be truly perfect. However, with the right support, both from family, work environment, and childcare institutions, women have a greater chance of living both optimally.
This issue is not just about women, but about the future of the next generation. Because when parents are supported, children also grow in a healthier, safer, and more potential environment.
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