When I was asked to write a piece on stepping down after 12 years as chief executive at the National Childminding Association (NCMA), Nursery World suggested that I might look at the changes I have seen in childminding, what I would like to see in the future - and, by the way, were there any controversies?
Let's start with the controversies. This immediately takes me back to a TV studio just outside London for the Kilroy Silk programme on 'smacking'.
It's Christmas 2000.
I'm greeted by the young production assistant and taken into what looks like a disused aircraft hanger. There are lots of young mothers with toddlers, running around between the makeshift cafe tables. There are family groups too, huddled around the tables, drinking coffee, chatting but subdued. The production assistants approach and tell them not to worry. It will be fun - they can say what they like, as the audience at home likes to hear a good argument.
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