BRITISH CHILDREN

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXVIII, Issue 20636, 16 August 1941, Page 4

BRITISH CHILDREN

HEALTHY AND HAPPY

REPORT BY OFFICERS (Parliamentary Reporter.) WELLINGTON, this day. British children who came to New Zealand last year under the official evacuation scheme, have settled down well in their new homes and adapted themselves quickly to the new conditions. Oversight of these 202 children is tiie responsibility of the Child Welfare Department, whose superintendent reports that their health has been good on the whole and that most have put on weight above the average. The Health Department co-operates in matters affecting the children’s health and the report gratefully acknowledges the gratutitious services of doctors and dentists. Child welfare officers visit the foster homes regularly. Their reports indicate that the children are happy in their new homes. A certain number of adjustments were necessary and transfers to other homes were arranged. Executive officers of zone committees have been helpful in assisting to select new foster-homes in such cases. In a few cases, the children, subsequent to their arrival, showed the effects of nervous strain, but under sympathetic treatment in suitable home conditions, their adjustment did not present any unusual difficulties. Teachers, of both primary and postprimary schools, are most helpful with the children. The report indicates, almost without exception, a good standard of education and quick adaption to their school surroundings and new environment. At March 31, 70 children were attending post-primary schools. A few who left school had taken up approved positions.