View report page

83
We now have a total of six Mothercraft and Relaxation
Classes per week and in November commenced a seventh in a
General Practitioner's Surgery. It is hoped that the mothers
whilst attending their own doctor for ante-natal care, will find
this extra service valuable. Although these classes are small it
is here that as knowledge is acquired so also is peace of mind
which ultimately brings better relaxation and assists towards
normal delivery. Subjects given are supported by films, film
strips, posters and model dolls and time is left for sorting out
small worries which cause the mother expecting a baby moments
of anxiety. The demand for education in this group widens and
it is found that young mothers are receptive and grateful for the
help received at classes. Many mothers send full details from
the hospital of their complete labour with a card announcing
the new arrival.
Fathers have not been forgotten and the evening showing
of the film "Childbirth without Fear", with Doctor and Health
Visitor present, always brings a good audience and varied
questions for the Doctor to answer.
Three Mothers' Clubs are now held at Manford Way, Newbury
Hall and Heathcote Avenue Infant Welfare Centres. Unfortunately
the Cecil Hall Club closed down as the Health Visitors found it
increasingly difficult to provide a good audience. The speaker
was present at the Infant Welfare Centre, which combined with
the Mothers' Club, and although the mothers were prepared to
come to the Health Visitor tor advice they were not prepared to
stop and listen to a speaker.
The Manford Way and Heathcote premises have a special
afternoon set aside for their Club and the mothers in the Newbury
Hall area asked for theirs to be held in the evening. Subjects
are varied to give mental stimulation to mothers who are busy
with housework and children and do not find it easy to get a
break from routine. Outside demonstrators have exhibited and
talked on diet, cake icing, preserves, flower demonstration,
household furnishings etc. Speakers have included a New Zealand
housewife, a clergyman and a school teacher. Suitable topics
chosen by the Health Visitor have been on varied subjects and
include child development, a discussion on sex education,
safety in the home and first aid. Films have been borrowed from
County Hall. Considerable time is spent on this type of education
and I am grateful to the Health Visitors and other members of
the Public Health staff who assist us with these matters.