Daily roundup: Behavioural problems, human trafficking, and children's centres

Children attending nurseries and those looked after by childminders are more likely to develop behavioural problems such as hyperactivity, a study has claimed. The Telegraph reports that research by academics at Oxford University found some forms of early education contributed to bad behaviour and could be linked to emotional problems. The study, based on an analysis of almost 1,000 children, found those who spent more time in day care centres were more likely to be hyperactive, and those receiving more care by childminders were more likely to have peer problems.

Judges will have the power to sentence human traffickers to life in prison as part of tougher sanctions. The BBC reports that ministers are planning new legislation to simplify the law on slavery, and make it easier to bring prosecutions. The number of cases of human trafficking discovered in the UK has risen by 25 per cent in the last year.

Eleven children’s centres in Essex have been earmarked for closure in a bid to save £2.5m by 2016. The Essex County Standard reports that under Essex County Council plans, services at each threatened centre will be merged with a neighbouring one, in some instances several miles away. A consultation on the plans will run until Thursday 5 December, with the changes coming into force next April.