CHILDREN’S CLOTHING

Otago Daily Times, Issue 21359, 12 June 1931, Page 13

CHILDREN’S CLOTHING

No. I. Contributed by the Home Science Extension Department. “ Clothes make the man ” —so goes the saying, and in a child’s opinion this is true. Many mothers do not realise the significance of clothing in the development of a child’s character. The “ odd ” child is often odd because of the way in which he is dressed. He may he self-conscious because his clothes are “ different ” from those of the other children—and the merciless teasing which he receives may result either in “ inferiority feelings ” or in rebellion. At any rate, let us see that the clothing is all right—not too large or too small—sufficiently masculine for the boy, and attractively ; ueat for the girl. ’ v The child who is overdressed in fussy clothes is apt to become conceited and snobbish, and to give too much time to thinking about clothes. On the other hand, the child who is carelessly dressed is apt to become slovenly and have little self-respect. Simple, appropriate, clean, comfortable clothes will help to prevent the child from becoming self-conscious, and will help to cultivate genuineness and sincerity. . Besides affecting the character, clothing may have a decided influence on the general physical well being of the child. All garments should be loose and comfortable, to give plenty of room for freedom of movement and for growth. There should be sufficient clothing, and the weight of the clothing should be evenly distributed over the body. For example, in winter time this is violated when children are wrapped up with coats and scarves on the upper part of the body, while the legs and feet are clad in short socks, exposing the leg, and light shoes which are insufficient protection from the cold.

Clothing which is tight may interfere with circulation, with breathing, with digestion, and it may cause certain organs to be displaced. Tight bands and elastic should be avoided. All garments, including hose supporters, should be made so that they are supported from, the shoulders. Materials which are used should be easily laundered and kept clean, and for this reason washing materials are the most hygienic. Under garments need careful consideration. The material for under-garments does not require to be thick—thickness does not necessarily mean warmth. It is the way in which the material is woven that affects its ability to keep the body warm. A light, loosely woven material is warmer and more comfortable than a heavy closely woven one, because the air which is held in the meshes of the open weave helps to keep the body warm. _lt also gives opportunity for ventilation and helps in the evaporation of perspiration. In this respect, too, remember that two light-weight garments are better than one thick heavy one. Wool is necessary as an under-garment in some climates and seasons, because of its warmth. But wool is irritating to some skins—it soils easily, is difficult to launder, and it is proved that bacterja will thrive in it more readily than in any other material. Wool will take up the body secretions rapidly, but it holds its moisture for a long time and feels damp to the skin For these reasons it is better to wear some cotton garment next to the skin, because cotton is more easily laundered and sterilised, is smooth, and also inexpensive—and then wear the woollen garment over it. Remember in this connection that too much clothing ie quite as serious as top little. Under-garments are best if made' in one piece. Separate garments are apt to gape or overlap, giving an uneven covering to the body. In buying or making garments, be sure that they are big enough—-that the crotch is wide, and the armholes and the seat roorqy. Hose supporters should be used so that they hang from the shoulders—and the pull should come towards the neck rather than the shoulder. If the strain is on the shoulder, round shoulders are likely, to result. ■ , Elastic garters should not be used. If, however, they are used for short socks, be sure that they are sufficiently loose so that they leave no mark on the leg. It is better to select socks, which have tightly woven tops which stay in place when turned back, without the use of elastic. (To be continued.)