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A preliminary conference is then held, at which a decision is made as to whether
a full or partial service is likely to be necessary. When full service is given, the facts
are discussed at a case conference attended by teachers and others interested. Observation
in the playroom has been found of increasing value, and notes are made of the
child's play activities and behaviour. A rhythm class has been started for children
thought likely to benefit by this type of activity. Coaching is given in small classes
to those of average intelligence who have specific educational disabilities.
A number of cases in which it was found that the children were of low intelligence
have been seen because they presented behaviour problems, but when the cause of
the difficulty was deemed to be solely lack of intelligence, the case has not been further
proceeded with, and the child has been referred to the school medical officer. When
necessary, recommendations are made for special school instruction or for action
under the Mental Deficiency Acts.
The following tables show the number of cases which have been dealt with from
the opening of the centre in November, 1927, to 31st December, 1931. This, it may
be noted, is a four-year period, and the majority of the cases have been seen in more
recent years. The total number of cases referred is 393 (males 235, female 158).
Ages of children referred.
Under 5 years 8
5 to 14 years 338
Over 14 years 44
Age unknown 3
Total 393
Source of reference.
School doctors 124
Head teachers 42
Care committee 53
Hospitals and clinics 59
Parents 18
Private doctors 22
Probation officers and children's courts 32
Other agencies 43
Total 393
N.B.—In some cases reference was due to more than one agency.
Reasons for reference.
Backwardness 69
Nervousness 80
Enuresis 34
Behaviour in school 36
Temper tantrums 29
Behaviour at home 53
Stammer and speech defects 41
Unusual fears 19
Spitefulness, etc 28
Theft 37
Masturbation and sex difficulties 22
Night terrors, sleep walking 21
Habit spasm, nervous movements 16
Truancy 8
Wandering 9
Fits 3
Retarded in one subject 3
Faecal incontinence 3
Inability to keep job 4
Refusal to work 2
Solitary 1
Attempted suicide 1
Hysteria 1
Homicidal tendencies 1
Migraine 1
Inability to see (functional) 1
N.B.—One child may be referred for more than one reason.