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49
Of the 72 deaths amongst hand-fed children, 29 of the mothers
were employed in some industry which entailed leaving the house and
placing the infant under the care of some other person.
To what extent can artificial feeding be obviated? Can some
means be devised whereby the mothers who are employed in some
industries may partially suckle their children? In the past we have
endeavoured to instruct the mothers by means of leaflets on the
feeding of infants. A selection is made of the birth returns, and the
most suitable ones are visited by the Health Visitor, and the following
leaflet is left at the house:—
URBAN DISTRICT OF ACTON.
Feeding and Care of Infants.
If possible, Suckle the Child for 7 to 10 months, and wait for
cool weather before weaning.
Do not wean the child because there is not enough milk, but
give cow's milk and barley water as well.
Feed at regular intervals; never between times. The child may
be thirsty, especially in the summer, and water may stop its crying.
Wean gradually; after weaning it may have bread and milk and
once a day broth or beef tea, a lightly boiled egg, or light milk puddings,
but milk should be its principal food up to the age of 18
months.
Keep the baby warm; clothing should be of flannel or woollen
material, and fairly loose in fit. Use stockings, not socks.
Sponge the child all over every morning, and dry it well.
Change wet napkins as soon as possible.
Give the baby plenty of fresh air. and take him out whenever
the weather is fine; keep the windows open.
Infants must sleep alone in a cot and not with the parents.