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It will be seen that the number of children wholly breast fed
far exceeds the others, including' the partially breast fed at each
age interval.
The ratio of the number of totally breast fed children to the
number of the others is highest during the first three weeks. For
the next five weeks, that is to the end of the second month, the
ratio is fairly constant, but diminished to one-half of its earlier
magnitude.
After the age of two months there is a marked decline.
Condition of Child.—This year, 67 per cent, of the children
were well nourished, as against 62 per cent, in 1908, and 68.9 per
cent in 1907.
The largest proportion of ill-conditioned babies was found
during the first week—these are the weaklings, some prematurely
born, others with insufficient stamina and vitality, into whom, as
it were, existence has to force its way ; these succumb because
they have not the grit, the material basis, which will enable them
to survive—in the words of one of the mothers—"there is no
foundation to build upon, so what can you expect."
After the first week and until the end of the third month the
percentage of ill-conditioned babies ranges from 7 to 12 per cent.
The children are at their best in the second and third weeks.
After the third month their condition recedes.
Mothers' Work.—Nearly 68 per rent, did house work only,
12 per cent, worked away from home, 14 per cent, worked away
from home intermittently, 11 per cent. did some homework as
outworkers for various firms.
Mothers' Health.—In 77 per cent., as against 75 per cent. in
1908, the health of the mother was good, in 23 per cent. it was
indifferent or bad. The influence of the mother's health upon
the child's prospects is obvious. Mothers who enjoy good
health when their infants are born are much more likely to rear
healthy children, and keep them, than mothers who are weakly
2nd ailing.