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130 School Baths.
School Baths.
There are no baths provided at any of the schools,
but a swimming bath, adjoining the public swimming
baths, with a man and a woman as instructors, is maintained
for school children. All children, boys and girls,
are given the opportunity during school hours, of learning
to swim before they leave school, and the opportunity
appears to be taken advantage of by the children
who are encouraged in every possible way to become
proficient in the art of swimming and of saving life from
drowning.
Co-operation of Parents.
Parents are encouraged to attend the medical inspection
of their children, a special request being made on
the notice of inspection which is sent to the parents.
At the inspection of the infants 85 per cent, were accompanied
by at least one parent, at the inspection of
the boys age—8 22 per cent., of the girls age—8.77 per
cent., of the boy—leavers, 54 per cent., and of the
girl—leavers, 74 per cent. These high percentages for
the groups of children inspected indicate the great interest
of the parents in the inspections.
There can be no doubt that as years go on the parents
are becoming more and more interested in school medical
inspection. This interest is due to the fact that they
receive general advice regarding the care of the children
and that they are assisted in obtaining treatment for
certain defects. Whereas many parents used to be
opposed to any form of inspection, now it is welcomed
and expected, and even demanded. Such a feeling
is all to the good, for it shows a much keener interest
in the health of the children and a greater appreciation
of preventive measures of treatment.