The inspection of children's centres has been put on hold pending the outcome of the government consultation, Ofsted has confirmed.
National tests for seven-year-olds should be reintroduced in England, according to Nicky Morgan.
The education secretary has claimed that "robust" assessment is needed to measure progress in schools.
Free early education entitlement does not deliver long-term benefits for children's development, according to new findings.
The Commons Work and Pensions and Education Select Committees have launched an inquiry into the government's life chances strategy and the role that early years intervention plays in shaping lives.
The House of Lords has voted in favour of an amendment to the Childcare Bill that requires government to carry out a comprehensive funding review before rolling out the 30-hour childcare pledge.
The 30-hour entitlement will be available to more than 5,000 children as part of the scheme's pilot, Nicky Morgan has announced.