The number of childminders judged as inadequate by Ofsted has more than doubled since 2005, according to the watchdog's latest report into the state of early years services.

Read: Quality of childminding takes a tumble.

I'm surprised that this article hasn't raised any comments. As a childminder I am glad to see that Ofsted are doing their job and finding unsatisfactory childminders. What it also highlights is that childminder training varies so much between areas and it is obvious that not enough is being done to reach and provide childminders in the so called poorer areas with good training opportunities. In my area opportunities are fantastic - I am studying for my Early Years degree which is being fully funded by my local Sure Start. I would also add that when the media gets hold of anything that demeans childminders they have a wonderful time - I'm still surprised that anyone uses a childminder!

Childminders are far more suitable then day nurseries for children under three. This is because the very young do better in small groups and with the continuity of the same carer. For this age group individual loving care from a bright friendly person is far more important than formal targets and the large groups and changing staff prevalent in nurseries.