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Five sessions were held during the year and 13 children were seen, 2 of whom
were examined on two occasions. Of these 13 children
1 was deaf
3 partially deaf
2 required speech training
2 were suffering from a catarrhal condition of the middle
ear and were referred for treatment
1 was placed on the waiting list for the removal of tonsils and adenoids
1 showed general backwardness (rather than impairment of hearing)
1 was referred for further observation
2 were found to be normal.

Handicapped Children.
The improved techniques for accurate diagnosis and better facilities now available
for the treatment and training of handicapped children have underlined the importance of
finding these children early - in infancy whenever possible. Wise counselling of parents
can do much to shape their attitudes in a way which will be constructive and will help
their child to lead as full a life as his endowments will permit.
For this reason, health visitors are asked to refer to the Senior Assistant Medical
Officer the records of any children whose development does not seem to be proceeding along
normal lines, or who seem to have some potential handicap. The medical officer is then able
to collect all available information (such as specialists reports) to co-ordinate the efforts
of persons interested in the child, and to see that the necessary guidance is available to
the family. When it appears to be in the interests of the child, or when requested by the
parents, children over two years are referred to the School Health Service so that the
advantages of possible "ascertainment" may be considered, and, if necessary, reviewed from
time to time. In this way also the School Health Service is made aware of the children for
whom special education may be required in the future.
Certain detailed tests are now available for assessing the mental development of very
young children. Too great a reliance must not be placed on them in predicting the child's
ultimate achievement, although they are very helpful. They can be used to reassure an
anxious parent, or to differentiate the child who is mentally backward from one who has a
physical handicap, such as deafness. The Educational. Psychologist has given much help in
applying these tests to selected children under five years, sometimes at regular intervals,
so as to assess the rate of development. The mothers have expressed much appreciation of
the interest shown and of the opportunity of being able to discuss their problems with an
understanding expert.
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