Judged on quality, availability, affordability and social context, the UK ranked fourth out of 45 countries, behind only Finland, Sweden and Norway.
That may be hard to credit, given the frequent complaints and concerns about UK provision on all those measures. The current economic squeeze brings debate about how to stretch short resources, as centres face closure while vulnerable families are hit hardest by economic policies.
We are always quick to point to examples abroad where things are better they are here - and so we should. There is much to be learned from the best elsewhere.
But this is a good time to recognise that early years in the UK is in a strong position, and we have much to celebrate.
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