(ECNS) -- Parents are eager for a day-off on Children's Day, a legal holiday for children under 14 years old in China, as the holiday has put those who have to go to work in a dilemma, New Express Daily reported.
While only a small part of parents can ask for a day off to spend time with their children, many are not able to have their requests met.
A random interview of 20 parents in Guangzhou City, Guangdong Province found only one who enjoyed a half-day off work. Usually the father and mother take turns looking after the child or ask friends for help on Children's Day.
A third grader had to accompany her mother to work on the holiday, said the report.
Some parents have shared their request for leave notes online, some written in touching ways.
"I wish you were a good guy approve a day-off for my mom," said a note written by a child.
A father said he hopes for a holiday for parents on Children's Day, providing some good memories together as a family. A mother made the same appeal but the best she could do was dine with her child after work as her request for leave was rejected.
Guo Yujian, headmaster of Zhan Tianyou Elementary School in Guangzhou's Liwan District, said teachers are also required to work on the day but that the school approves leave for those who plan to take care of their children.
