IPPA, the Early Childhood Organisation has urged parents to encourage their children to play outside.

CHILDCARE experts say that Health Service Executive (HSE) regulations must be seen as minimal standards and is advising parents seeking a crèche for their child to look for one that is committed to quality through membership or involvement with a voluntary childcare organisation.

A group representing people involved in the childcare sector has accused the Department of Health of deliberately delaying the introduction of improved regulations for the sector.

Ireland's early childhood education services rank far behind those of most European countries, it was claimed today.