The Childcare Bill does not really herald a regime of the 3Rs for tots, as one scaremongering headline proclaimed. But it is a literal manifestation of the nanny state. In addition to promising enough available childcare for the children of all working parents, it sets out to ensure its educational quality for children under three.
Childminders and nurseries will be under a legal duty to help toddlers to develop skills. Inspection reports will reassure parents that their children are getting an enriching experience. We must make sure that there is no pressure for babies to meet targets and keep up with the Jones’
little ones. Childhood is not a race.
