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22
PROVISION OF MEALS.
The systematic provision of meals to school children was not
undertaken during the year, and there is no machinery for enabling
delicate school children to obtain milk and cod liver oil either free
or at moderate prices. Such a scheme would greatly benefit many
children and would not entail much organisation or expense. It
is mainly a question of co-operative buying and the friendly help
of the teachers.
SCHOOL BATHS.
No school in this district is provided with baths.
CO-OPERATION OF PARENTS.
As already indicated, cards are sent to parents inviting their
attendance on the occasion of their children undergoing Medical
Inspection. They may also attend Dental Inspections.
During 1926, one or other parent attended in 1,694 instances,
representing a percentage of 64.8 as against 57.4 for 1925.
Where defects are found the children are followed-up as
already described.
CO-OPERATION OF TEACHERS.
Review of the work undertaken by Teachers in facilitating the
work of (1) Medical Inspection, (2) Following-up and
(3) Medical Treatment of the children.
I lie School Medical Work in this District is greatly helped
by the interest and friendliness of the Teachers. Not only are all
facilities given for the necessary inspections at the Schools but
the Teachers shew active interest in the health of the children, and
encourage the parents and children to obtain treatment.
Often the Teacher's influence is the paramount one in a child's
life, and the parents come to them for advice, hence it is of
great importance to the School Medical Service to have the
Teachers as allies.
Much of the improvement in the cleanliness of the school
children is due to the Teachers' zealous work in this direction.