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This, of course, shows a very good average, and had it not been for the
somewhat irregular attendances of some children the average attendance would
have been rather higher.
The majority of the children have attended regularly and it has been
interesting to watch their development.
One small boy arrived pale-faced, listless and miserable, and flatly refused
food of any description. On careful inquiry it was found that he had been in
the habit at home of walking round the table at mealtimes, and taking a mouthful
just when and where he felt inclined; he now takes his meals quite well, has a
friendly smile, trots round the Nursery with the other children and is gradually
but surely putting on weight.
There have been many other similar cases where very marked improvement
has been shown, owing to the regularity of the hours of meal-times, play times
and rest times, etc., and the careful attention generally.
Miss Alice Roberts has been in charge of the baby nursery for six months >
and has done very satisfactory work amongst the children who one and all
adore her.
The staff have all worked together harmoniously.
Miss Muriel Woodcock obtained "Good" in recent Preliminary Examination
held by the National Society of Day Nurseries.
Armchairs which have been provided for the Staff have been very much
appreciated.
The pram shed erected in the summer has proved to be a great boon as it
obviates the continual opening of the Nursery doors, and also allows extra room.
The partition which has been placed across the Toddlers' nursery is a most
satisfactory addition, as the nursery is now free from draught, as well as being
safer for the children.
The day's curriculum is approximately as follows:—
7.30—9.0 Children are admitted.
9.0—Lunch which is much enjoyed by the children, especially on a cold
winter morning.
After lunch there is "toothbrush drill," the children are helped with the
brushing of their teeth, but soon learn to do it for themselves, and enjoy it too.
Afterwards come games, and then dinner, when again everyone is hungry
and ready for the excellently cooked meals which are always so tempting.
There is usually a demand to know what the pudding will be, and on days
when it is a "big fat pudding" there is a chorus of delight.
After dinner the children help to clear their chairs; stretchers are produced
by the nurses and the children lie down for two hours.
Then comes tea, followed by games and stories, and finally the busy process
of washing and dressing to go home.
M. G. A. NEWBEGIN,
Matron.
HONORARY MEDICAL OFFICER'S REPORT.
February 19th, 1936.
Another year has passed in the life of the Hackney Day Nursery and I am
again called upon to furnish a report.
I am glad to be able to say that the work of the Day Nursery has been very
satisfactory.