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One thousand four hundred and twenty one children (52.4%) out of 2,711 were found
to be in satisfactory health and free from any defect. In addition, there were 368
children in whom there was no defect except dental carles or other dental abnormality.
It is interesting to note that with the exception of some increase in dental caries and
decreases in the nose and throat and postural defects, the proportion of the defects
found during 1952 correspond closely with those found in the preceding year.
The toddler age group of children between two and five years is one which has
received insufficient attention. Parents and their advisers have been pre-occupied with
the more urgent demands of the young baby and the more obvious needs of the school child.
Although the Toddlers' troubles are not usually of a very serious nature, they may
cause him much unhappiness or discomfort and hinder his development towards full physical
and mental health.
The defects found in this age group tend to be slight deviations from the normal,
or in the case of behaviour defects, an exaggeration of normal trends.
At this stage timely advice or treatment often ensures a speedy return to normality
and prevents permanent impairment of health. '
The parents who bring their children to these "Birthday" examinations appreciate
the opportunity to talk about their development and behaviour and show obvious relief when
they learn that what they feared was a "Problem" is in fact nothing more than a stage in
normal development.
Physical defects detected at this age can frequently be remedied and the child's
general health built up before he goes to school.
Tea is available for the mothers attending with their children at the Infant
Welfare Centres, and talks are given by the Health Visiting Staff from time to time. The
subjects dealt with in these talks have included "Emotional Growth and Development",
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