Watchdogs have found nearly 20,000 children are at risk of ill-treatment or neglect because of substandard care from their nursery, childminder or creche.
Ofsted singled out over 850 childcare providers as 'inadequate' whilst a staggering 10,990 were branded just 'satisfactory'.
Overall, 29 per cent of childcare provisions - almost one in three facilities - failed to meet 'good' standards of safety and welfare for the children in their care.
Orders for improvements and overhauls have been issued to almost 6,000 establishments. Problems ranged from failure to uphold hygiene routines or identify and remove hazards, through to lack of provision of engaging or challenging activities for children.
Despite these findings, Ofsted claims that levels of poor practice are declining, and insists it always acts quickly if there is an immediate risk to children.
What do you think?
Have your experiences of nurseries been positive?
Or have you witnessed neglect and poor standards?