View report page

110
The knickerbockers should be of corduroy or stout serge, and
supported by braces, or by being buttoned to a bodice in the case of
infants. Suspenders should be used for the stockings.
A knitted vest is a useful addition in the winter time, when an
overcoat is also required.
While it is a mistake to endeavour to harden children by
exposing the limbs, too many garments hinder the free movement
of the body and the proper use of the lungs. Over-clothing also
leads to sweating during exercise, and consequent risk of chills.
The boots should be of the natural shape of the foot, straight
on the inside edge, and allow plenty of room for the toes.
Girls should be dressed in the same way as boys (suitable
knickerbockers included), but with the addition of a kilt supported
from the shoulders by a cotton bodice. If preferred the jersey and
kilt may be replaced by a long-sleeved yoke frock reaching just
below the knee, made. of material suitable for the season.
Patterns for making suitable garments for boys and girls may
be borrowed from the Health Visitors.
Sleep.—All underclothing should be changed at night. A
child should be accustomed to sleep on its side, in a quiet room
with an open window. Children in the infant school require
twelve hours' sleep, and half-an-hour's rest in the middle of the day.
Older children require at least ten hours. Medical advice should be
sought for children who persistently snore at night.
Care of the Eyes- —Children must not sew, read or write in a
bad light. When reading or working, children should sit with their
feet on the floor, their backs straight, and the book or work not less
than a foot from the eyes. Children who constantly work in
awkward, twisted positions are likely to get twisted backbones.
The attention of the head teacher should be directed to any
child who cannot see properly, or has pain after reading, in order
that the sight may be tested by the medical officer.
The Feeding of School Children.—Food is required for growth
and to enable the body to do its work and keep up its warmth.