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58
This immunisation is of very great importance, in that it means these little
ones are immune to diphtheria, that terrible disease which has accounted for
so much in former years.
The routine of the Nursery and the food still hold their former high standard.
The kiddies are extremely happy.
The Committee, the Matron and staff are to be congratulated on their efforts;
and 1 close this report wishing them every success in the coming years in providing
this very necessary institution in the Borough.
MATRON'S REPORT.
(M. G. A. Newbegin.)
The year 1937 has been one of steady progress for the Hackney Day Nursery.
There have been no epidemics during the year and, except for a few mild
cases of influenza in the autumn, the children have been free from illness, the
attendances having been very regular indeed.
The Day Nursery was open 225 days. There have been 2,173 attendances
of children under two years of age, and 4,584 attendances of children from two
to five years, making a total of 6,757.
The Day Nursery is certainly growing up rapidly. This is shown by the
fact that two mothers—whose children used to attend the Nursery regularly—
have returned, each with a young baby. In the one case, the older child has
come back as a toddler; in the other the child left to go to school.
A small boy who came to the Nursery in April, 1937, at the age of ten months,
was pale, listless and very undernourished; he also frequently lost weight.
With suitable food and proper rest, this same child now has a colour in his cheeks
and is doing well. He enjoys his routine visits to Dr. Turtle and shows a spirit
of mischief.
In July the rooms and landings on the top floor were distempered throughout,
which made them look very fresh and clean.
In September the stairs were provided with new treads and mottled rubber
covering. This has been most appreciated, not only on account of the appearance,
but also because it is now far easier to walk upon the stairs as well as being
simpler to keep them clean.
The outside of the premises has been painted, and the children found much
interest in watching the men whilst at their work.
The new cupboard in the scullery for the cleaning implements has proved
to be very useful. We can now hang up the brooms correctly and tidily—a great
asset when young people are being trained.
In the Advanced Examination held in March by the National Society of
Day Nurseries, Miss Jose Coleman obtained "Pass."
In the Preliminary Examination held in July by the N.S.D.N., Miss Adela
Beeslev and Miss Lilian Lloyd each obtained "Good."
We regret intensely losing Miss Alice Roberts who has had charge of the
Baby Nursery for two years and seven months. The children have been very
happy and well looked after under her care.