N.Z. CHILDREN.

Waikato Times, Volume 102, Issue 17133, 21 June 1927, Page 4

N.Z. CHILDREN.

INTERESTING ENQUIRIES. BIGGER THAN IN OTHER LANDS. fcj An interesting investigation into the weight and height of New Zealand school children were carried out by the Health Department during the past year. The Minister of Health, Hon. J. A. Young, speaking at Hamilton last night, said the investigation was carried out by the various school officers of the Department and had been written up by Dr. Paterson apd Dr. Marsden. \ The conclusions come to were as follows: —(1) New Zealand school children between ages of 10 to 15 years show excess in heig'ht and weight when compared with the available statistics relating to those of Australia, Great Britain, America and Toronto; (2) New Zealand school children have definitely improved in height and in weight during the years 191325; (3) sitting height relatively to standing height is less in New Zealand, children than in Glasgow children; (4) there is noteworthy difference to he found in height and weight of New Zealnad children grouped according to birthplace of parents, New Zealand or abroad; (5) children of farmers are tallest and heaviest, children of professional men are almost as tall as farmers’ hut show no excess in weight over the average; (6) the average height and weight of children attending rural schools is apparently greater than of those living in the city; (7) the average height and weight of children with good mental attainment is greater than of those with inferior ability.

A fourth enquiry was one into conditions of rural school children. Studies were made in respect of various groups of children as regards environment both in the school and in Hie home, nutrition and the effect of child labour. A great mass of very useful and valuable infromation has been collected, and in the course of the coming year it is hoped to be able to digest this material and arrive at some conclusions.