EDUCATION: SPECIAL SCHOOLS, AND INFANT LIFE PROTECTION. [In continuation of E.-4, 1909.]

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1910 Session I, E-04

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1910 NEW ZEALAND.

EDUCATION: SPECIAL SCHOOLS, AND INFANT LIFE PROTECTION. [In continuation of E.-4, 1909.]

Presented to both Houses of the General Assembly by Command of His Excellency.

CONTENTS. Page I'axH 1. Extract from the annual report (E.-l) of the 4. Industrial schools— Minister of Education- Financial tables 14 Afflicted and dependent children .. .. 2 Statistics respecting inmates .. .. 15 School for the Deaf, Sumner . Reports of Medical Officers of Schools .. 18 Jubilee Institute for the Blind, Auckland .. 3 „ , , „„. ..,..., . „ _ .. _ . . . _ _. . .. ~ Heports of honorary Official Visitors to BurnSpecial School for Boys, Otekaike .. 8 ham Industrial School 20 Children under State guardianship .. 4 Infant life protection .. .. .. "'-,-,.., m ■ t *.- ■>. Costley Training Institution— 2. School for the Deaf, Sumner — Statement of accounts .. .. 21 Report of Direotor .. .. .. 6 Report of Medical Officer .. .. 7\ ( - lnfant life prot ectioni. Speoial Sohool for Boys of Feeble Mind, Ote- Report of Secretary for Education .. .. 22 kaike— Reports of District Agents .. .. 26 Report of the Principal .. .. .. 7 Foster-parent's record-book .. .. 30 Provision lor feeble-minded girls .. 11 Supervision of infant life in Australia (extract Permanent oare and oontrol of the feeble- from Commonwealth Year-book) .. 32 minded .. .. .. .. 12

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No. I.—EXTRACT FROM THE THIRTY-THIRD ANNUAL REPORT OF THK MINISTER OF EDUCATION. Special Schools : Afflicted and Dependent Childp y en. The special schools of the Dominion provide for the instruction of children who are deaf, blind, feeble-minded, epileptic, delinquent, neglected, or indigent. The function of such schools in the educational system of a country is to endeavour to overcome as far as practicable the disabilities under which these young people suffer, and ultimately to give them an equipment for their work in life that will enable them to maintain themselves without assistance from the public funds or from their friends. At the end of the year the total number belonging to these schools was 2,539, and the net charge on the public funds for the year was £42,385. The figures for each class of school were as follows : — Number under Wi Ooet. Government Control. £ School for the Deaf ... ... ... ... 89 4,03« Jubilee Institute for the Blind ... ... 39 687 Special School for Boys of Feeble Mind ... ... 31 4,103 Industrial Schools ... ... ... ... 2,380 33,557 Of the total cost, £7,441 represents the amount expended in the purchase of land, erection of buildings, and equipment of institutions. The total amount collected from parents and guardians by way of payment towards the cost of education and maintenance was £7,059. The establishment of a special school for the training of boys of feeble 'mind has now been accomplished, and, though still in its infancy, there is good ground for anticipating that its effect in training boys of this class to make a living for themselves w T ill fully justify its existence. It is, however, at least equally important that there should be a similar school for girls, and this matter is now under the consideration of the Government. Another pressing need is a new industrial school for boys who, though not vicious, are by temperament not tit for placing out with foster-parents in private homes. The number resident at the existing Government institution for this class of boys has now reached the limit up to which that individual training can be effectively given that is essential to the formation of a boy's character, and therefore there must be no delay in taking action to meet the demand for another school. Such a need is not to be taken as an unfavourable indication of the moral tone of the youth of the Dominion. It is to some extent due to the natural increase of population; but a far more cogent reason is to be found in the greater recognition by Magistrates and the police of the fact that by means of such institutions boys who are delinquent through want of amenability to control, parental laxity, and similar causes, receive a training to fit them for the duties of citizenship that otherwise would be denied them. The Department has evidence too clear to admit of dispute that the expenditure in connection with the adminstration of the industrial-schools system is amply recovered to the country, on the one hand in the very large number of worthy and prosperous men and women who owe their positions to the upbringing they have thus received, and on the other hand in the staying , of the tide of destitution and insanity, criminality, and other degradation. Important amendments were made by the Legislature last session in the Industrial Schools Act. Attention may be drawn to two of these, especially that which gives power to a Magistrate to extend from time to time the period of control over a young man or woman who is adjudged by him to be morally degenerate or otherwise not (in the public interest) a fit person to be free from control. The other far-reaching provision is that giving power to the police to bring before a Magistrate on warrant, with a view to admission to an industrial school, any boy or girl under sixteen years of age who " is not under proper control."

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School for the Deaf. Number oi pupils who returned to the school in February, 1909, after the summer vacation ... ... .. ' .82 Number admitted during the school year ... ... .16 Number who left during or at the end of the school y< ... ... 9 Number remaining on the roll at the close of the school yea r .. ... 89 The cost of the school for the years 1908 and 1909 respectively was as Allows:- 1908. urn X. s. d. £ s. d. Salaries ... ... ... ... ... 2,812 2 8 2,916 2 7 Maintenance of pupils ... ... .... 1,461 3 7 1,513 6 8 Buildings and other works ... .. ... 158 16 2 Maintenance of buildings, and water charges ... 354 16 10 332 15 6 Sundries ... ... ... ... ... 121 9 0 121 19 0 Amount collected from parents by way of maintenance contributions ... ... ... 694 9 8 838 11 0 Sundry other recoveries ... ... ... 24 8 10 6 18 11 Net expenditure on the institution ... ... 4,189 9 9 4,038 14 10 There was an increase of 24-8 per cent, in parental contributions, as against an increase of 8-5 per cent, in the number of pupils under instruction. Jubilee Institute for the Blind. This institution is governed by a Board of Trustees, four of whom are appointed by the Government, and the remaining five elected by the subscribers to the funds of the Institute. As the Institute comes within the scope of the Hospitals and Charitable Institutions Act, subsidy at the rate of 245. in the pound is payable by the Government on voluntary subscriptions received by the Board, and 10s. in the pound on the value of bequests. The amount of such subsidy payable to the Board during its last financial year was £1,967. The number of pupils between seven and sixteen years of age for whom the Government paid was 21 at the end of 1908, and 25 at the end of 1909, and the number between sixteen and twenty-one years rose during the year from 8 to 12. The tuition of 2 adults was also paid for. Thus the Government contributed towards the cost of training 39 pupils, the expenditure being £903, as against £705 for the previous year. The amount of contributions by parents and guardians was £215 19s. 3d.; for 1908 it was £154 17s. 3d. Special School for Boys of Feeble Mind. This school is situated at Otekaike, in North Otago, near the Oamarullakataramea Railway. It is not yet fully organized; but additional buildings that are now completed will provide accommodation for a considerably increased number of boys. It is to be borne in mind that Otekaike deals with only those who are capable of being trained in some degree; those more severely afflicted are dealt with by the Mental Hospitals Department. Eventually in all probability it will be found advisable, for economic and other reasons, to provide at Otekaike for both feeble-minded and epileptic young people who are capable of being educated. Although no definite estimate of the number of cases to be dealt with has yet been obtained, there is evidence that, if the matter of protecting the community from the consequences of failure to train children of these characteristics is vigorously taken in hand, a substantial outlay will be necessary. As many of the epileptic and feeble-minded will never be able to successfully face the stress of life, it is necessary that they be provided for in institutions where, under expert supervision, they can by manual employment earn or partly earn the cost of their maintenance. At present there are 31 boys in residence at the Otekaike School. The cost of the school for the year was £4,10:>, made up as follows :— £ s. d. Salaries ... ... ... ... ... ... 1,102 15 4 Maintenance of pupils ... .. f>47 14 11 Maintenance of buildings ... ... ... ... 243 19 7 Farm and stock ... ... ... ... ... ... 612 19 0 Additional buildings, fencing, <fee. ... ... ... 1,602 18 3 Sundries ... ... ... ••■ 180 6 10 Less—Amount collected from parents by way of maintenance contributions ... ... ... 182 2 2 Sundry other recoveries... ... ... ... 105 211 \< t expenditure on the institution ... 4,108 9 7

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The number of boys will soon be about seventy, and the cost of maintenance per head will then be considerably reduced. (The cosi per head in the Parental School at Chicago, U.S.A., was £70 ss. 2d. in 1906.) Children under State (riiardianship. During 1909 the numbers under the control of all the industrial schools lose from 2/263 to 2,380. Of the latter number, 420 wore in residence ai Government schools, and 351 in the private (Roman Catholic) schools. The remaining 1,609 were non-resident, 770 being boarded out with foster-parents (10 without payment) and 839 being at service, with friends on probation, &c. The numbers of children on the books at the end of the years 1908 and 1909 respectively whose maintenance was a charge against the public funds were as follows : — 1908. 1909. Boarded out from Government schools ... .. ... 718 757 Boarded out from private schools ... ... ... 7 3 Number resident at schools ... ■ ... 792 771 At other institutions ... ... ••• ■•■ •■■ 40 .!.i Total ... ... ... ... ... 1,557 1,566 1908. 1909. £ s. d. ',£ s. d. The amount of parental contributions was ... 5,604 6 7 5,786 8 5 Rate per head for children maintained ... 3 12 0 3 13 II Details respecting the numbers of children on the books of industrial schools at the end of the year are given in E. 4, " Special Schools and Infant-life Pro tection," Tables H and H4. The net expenditure on acount of industrial schools during the year showed a decrease of £97 15s. 10d. as compared with the preceding year. The following statement gives particulars: — 1908 . 190 9. i .-. d. I c. d. Cost of maintenance of schools ... ... 19,487 9 '2 19,831 5 2 Boarding out (exclusive of cost of administration, inspection, &c.) ... ... •■■ • •■ 13,001 12 I J 3,31!) 0 6 Salaries 7,612 18 6 8,151 3 8 New buildings ... ... ••• 6,328 2 2 5,838 2 0 Salaries, travelling-allowances, and expenses of certain departmental officers (Inspectors, visiting officers, &o.) ... ... .. .-• 1,545 1 5 1,424 14 9 Sundry payments ... ... ... ■ ■• 418 4 7 186 15 0 Gross total 48,393 8 2 48,751 1 1 Recoveries 14,737 19 4 15,193 8 1 Nei cost ... ... ■■■ ■■• ••• 33,055 8 10 33,557 13 0 Further details of the expenditure on industrial schools during the year are contained in E.-4, "Special Schools-and Infant-life Protection," Tables 111, H2, and H3. Payments by Charitable Aid Hoards for maiuton- 1908. 1909. anoe of children who oame into Government schools owing to indigence (included in the I s. d. E s. d. total sum recovered) ... ... •■■ 8,376 7 8 8,612 1(? 3 Number of children at the end of the year belonging to Government schools who were so paid for 542 596 Number maintained a< the expense of Charitable Aid Boards at private industrial schools ... 162 132 The amount paid by the Charitable Aid Boards on account of children sent to the private industrial schools as indigent is not stated here, as the managers of these schools make their claims upon the Boards without reference to the Education Department,

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BOYS' TRAINING-FARM, WERAROA (Area, 400 Acres).

Girls' Industrial School, Auckland.

School for Feeble-minded Boys, Otekaike. Potato-digging.

School for Feeble-minded Boys, Otekaike General view showing main building, Cottage Home, &c.

School for Feeble-minded Boys, Otekaike. Open-air lesson in mat-making.

School for Feeble-minded Boys, Otekaike. Open-air lesson on number, the pupils using plasticine.

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The total amount in the Post-OHice Savings-Bank to the credit of the earn ing accounts of young people now under the control of industrial schools, or who lot nirrly belonged to them was, at 31st December, 1909 ... £25,005 13 9 Amount held on account of Government schools ... ... 19,354 2 10 Amount held on account of private schools... ... ... 5,651 10 11 Sum withdrawn during the year, — Government schools ... . ... ... 3,486 10 I Private schools ... ... ... ... ... 689 11 5 These moneys are dealt with according to law. In practice each earner receives the amount with interest some time after the termination of the period of State control, when he produces evidence of good character, and ability to apply it wisely. In cases of relapse into evil ways forfeiture of the money may result. Infant-life Protection. This system provides for the supervision of children who are nursed or maintained apart from their parents or guardians for fee or reward. Comprehensive information as to its administration is given in the report of the Secretary for Education (which appears in E.—4, " Special Schools for Infantlife Protection "). During the year 1,181 children were dealt with, 563 of whom were under one year old. The total number of deaths was 25, equal to 2-12 per cent. The expenditure on account of this work during the year amounted to £981, made up as follows : — £ s. d. Salaries of visiting nurses and local representatives ... ... 588 12 (> Travelling-expenses of district agents, visiting nurses, and looal representatives ... ... ... ... ... 222 8 6 Payments to foster-parents for board of infants... ... ... 95 17 I I Legal expenses ... ... ... ... ... ... 10 19 6 Office expenses (including rent), advertising, and sundries ... 82 18 4 Less recoveries ... ... ... ... ... ... 18 19 8

No. 2.—SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF, SUMNER. REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR. Sir,— School for the Deaf, Sunnier, 2tsth April, 1910. I have the honour to lay before you my report for the year 1909. The number of pupils who have been under instruction during the year is shown in the following tabulated statement : — Boys. Uirls. Tot aI. Pupils of the previous year who returned to school .. ... 46 -'56 82 Admitted at or near the commencement of the year ... 5 7 12 Admitted later ... ... ... ... ... 2 2 I Total number nil the roll ... ... ... ... 53 +5 98 Lieft before the end of the school year ... ... ... 1 1 2 Left at the end of the school year... ... ... ... 3 4 7 Pupils expected to return in 1910 ... ... ... 49 40 89 Of the 98 pupils, 25 came from the Auckland District, •'! from Taranaki, •'! from Hawke's Bay, 23 from Wellington, I from Nelson, 1 from Marlborough, 2 from Westland, 20 from Canterbury, and 20 from Otago. Three boys were boarded out during the year, and one boy and two girls, who resided with friends in the neighbourhood, attended as day-pupils. It has been found that the progress af these children lia> bees to a marked degree accelerated in consequence of their greater opportunities

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for intercourse with normal hearing and speaking persons. It, is always to be desired that children whose parents live near enough to the school should visit their homes whenever this is possible without the interruption of their education. Therefore, with my approval, the parents of several of our pupils, whose homes are in or near Christchurch, have made a practice of having their children home for the week-ends. Others do the same fortnightly or monthly. The weekly journey to and from the school, usually without escort, and the frequent renewals of home ties, are of great benefit to those children fortunate enough to be able to avail themselves of them, greatly stimulating their faculties of observation and developing their independence of character. Of the 12 pupils admitted at the beginning of the year. 2 made excellent, (5 very good, and i' good progress. The other 2 were mentally deficient. One of these, a girl of nine, had been under my observation for some years, and had been classed by me as an imbecile. Other persons who had examined the child being of opinion that she was capable of being taught, she was admitted on trial, and remained at the school until nearly the end of August, when she was removed to her home, it being then quite clear that she was an imbecile. The other case, a boy of thirteen and a half, was a little more promising. It was evident at once that lie was mentally deficient, probably owing to paralysis, with which he was afflicted down one side of the body. He was, however, able to imitate to a certain extent. It was found, however, impossible lo instruct him in articulation ; but he was able to profit slightly by physical and kindergarten training. At the end of the year he was transferred to the Special School for Boys at Otekaike. It is obvious thai deaf imbeciles such as these should bo excluded fr an oral school for the deaf. Their presence is in many ways inconsistent with the proper carrying-on of the work of the school, involving as it does the use of signs to a reprehensible extent. It is largely on this account I hat in older countries, where larger populations give greater facilities for classification, dull or backward deaf children are educated in separate institutions. Of the late comers, one ease, admitted in .May. was that of a boy of seven, win. about a year previously had completely losl his hearing in consequence of a severe attack of scarlet fever. At the time of his admission his speech was rapidly deteriorating, ami would soon have been utterly gone. He is now making satisfactory progress. Two eases, sisters, one admitted In July, the other in September, call for special notice. They were brought under my observation when on a visit to Dunedin in the winter vacation. The elder girl, aged fifteen, had a considerable amount of hearing, but was far too deaf to be properly taught in the public school that she had been attending for over seven years. Her younger sister, aged nearly thirteen, had been six years at the same school, and, being practically stone-deaf, had made little progress. In both eases the limited nature of their attainments had been wrongly attributed to mental incapacity. The progress they have made since their admission here, however, proves them to be of normal intelli gence, the only disadvantage they are labouring under being their deafness. As it is possible that there may be similar eases in other parts of the Dominion, it is requested that teachers and other persons should communicate with the Education Department when they have knowledge of children whose progress, owing to defective hearing, sight, or intelligence, is less than normal. Such cases can then be investigated, and the afflicted children, if it is found necessary, brought under the influence of the special facilities provided by the State for their education. The health of the pupils throughout the year was on the whole satisfactory. There were no cases of serious illness among them. One or two mild cases of pneumonia occurred in the autumn, and the work of the school was somewhat interfered with in the spring by some mild cases of whooping-cough. It is much to be regretted that, on account of a severe illness, the school had to lose the valuable services of Miss A. Gibson, who had filled the position of sub-matron since 1902, and who had during that period exercised a very great influence for good, especially on the elder girls of the school. In April one boy of delicate constitution left the school. He had been a pupil since 1900, and, in spite of frequent absences on account of ill health, had made satisfactory progress. At the end of the year two boys and four girls were removed, having attained in most cases a reasonable standard of proficiency. It is in one case, however, especially to be regretted that the compulsory clauses of the Education Act do not apply to pupils who have reached the age of sixteen. In the case of dull children, and particularly in the case of children whose admission has been delayed until a somewhat advanced age. it is highly desirable that power to enforce attendance to a more advanced age should be obtained. In order to take the place of the assistant teacher in training, who left in the previous year, an additional teacher. Mr. H. .1. Williams, was, in February, appointed to go into training. The annual picnic of the school was held in November, at Burnham, and very hearty thanks an- dm' to Mr. and Mrs. Arehey and their staff for their very great kindness in providing for our entertainment and amusement so lavishly. The splendid swimming-bath at Burnham was a great attraction for our pupils, and it is much to be regretted.that, owing to the inadequacy of the Sumner water-supply, a similar bath cannot be provided here. It seems anomalous that in a seaside watering-place, such as Sumner, there should be no facilities for the teaching of swimming to children. By the kindness of Messrs. Fuller and Sons an open invitation to visit their kinematograph entertainments was extended to our pupils, and this very gracious offer was frequently taken advantage of dining the year. The children derived a great deal of pleasure and profit from the pictures, many of which were of high educational value Referring to the work of the school in general, I can only say that the results as a whole may be regarded as very satisfactory. I have. iVe..

J. E. Stevens, Director.

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REPORT OK MEDICAL OFFICER, Sir, Christchurch, 30th June, 1910. I have the honour to report on the health of the Sohool for the Deaf for the year 1909. There has been a moderate amount of illness, of which the only serious oases were the subtnatron, who had pleuro-pneumonia, and two pupils with enteric. An epidemic of whoopingcough in the spring affected about a dozen pupils. One fractured leg occurred. There is great need of a tent hospital, similar to the one at Burnham, for the prompi isolation of cases of infectious disease. 1 recommend that two of these framed tents should be placed as soon as possible on ihe west side of the main building. If we wait till an outbreak occurs, it will be impossible to get the hospital properly constructed in time to be of use. A playshed and gymnasium are much needed, as there is no place for the boys to play in (luring wet weather. Haying such a good supply of electric light, it would Ik- worth while to provide an electrical projection lantern for illustrations and demonstrations, which would greatly assist the general educalion of the pupils. My attention has been for some time directed to the effect of " inside " class-rooms on the health of both teachers and pupils. These rooms are formed by partitioning some larger rooms, and, as they have no window opening to the outside air, they are badly lighted and still worse ventilated. 1 would suggest that some of the classes be transferred to the old school buildings, and the partitions taken down. I wish to record my deep appreciation of the important services rendered by Mrs. Crawford, who has been honorary nurse to the school for two years, and whose departure we all regret. Her long experience as a hospital matron and nurse has been of the utmost value to the institution. 1 have, itc, W. LI. SlMps, M.D.

No. 3.—SPECIAL SCHOOL FOE BOYS, OTEKAIKE, OAMARU. REPORT OF THE PRINCIPAL Sin, Special School for Boys, Otekaike, 19th May, 1910. As Principal of the Special School for Boys, Otekaike, I have the honour to present to you a general annual report for the year ending 31st March, 1910. Admissions, discharges, and deaths, — In the school on the 31st March, 1909 ... ... ... ... 9 Admitted ... ■• ■■■ ••■ ••• ■■■ ••• 24 Discharged or left ..'. ... ... ... ■■■ ••■ 2 Died ... ... ... •■• ••■ ••• ■•■ 0 Aggregate number under treatment ... ... ... ... 33 Average number under treatment ... ... ■ ■■ ... 20 Maximum number resident on any one day ... ... ... : 'l In school on the 31st March, 1910 ... ... 31 Ages of boys in the institution on the 31st March. 1910, — From sto 10 years ... ... ... ■■■ ■•• 4 „ 10 to 16 „ [ 6 ~ 16t020 „ ... ••• ' ~ 20 years upwards ... ... ■■ ••• ■•• 4 Total ... ... .. ••■ 31 Ages of boys admitted during the year : Of those admitted during the year, — 1 was under 7 years of age; 16 were between 7 and 16 years of age ; 6 ~ 16 and 20 1 was 21 years of age and upwards. Total 24 Admissions. Of the cases admitted during the year, nearly all have proved amenable to training and educational treatment. A careful analysis of the eases shows that, both as regards mental grade and physical condition, a great similarity is seen in the general condition of the feeble-minded children of this Dominion and those of the Old Country. On the whole however, our admissions compare favourably with those admitted into the residential institutions in England, seeing that of late years the special day schools in England have been oatering for the children suffering from the lighter shades oi mental defect.

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DISCHAR<iKS. There have been two discharges during the year. The first case was that of a boy who showed many of the symptoms of the oncoming of general paralysis. After being returned "by me to his parents, he became gradually worse, and was geni on to Seacliff Mental Hospital. The second case was that of a boy who was reported to be entirely unmanageable, as giving way to fits of uncontrollable temper, and as showing suicidal tendencies. I kept this boy under olose observation for five months and a half, lie proved to be an entirely docile lad, a willing worker, and capable of continuing his education in one of the other institutions under the Education Department. He was accordingly transferred. I have just received an account as to this boy's progress since his transference. The officer in charge of the institution states, '• He has l>een a very good boy since he was admitted. He has not exhibited the temper that caused so much trouble to his foster-parents. All my people speak well of him. The teacher reports that lie is a good boy in class, is weak in arithmetic, but equal to the average in reading, spelling, and other subjects in Standard 11. Unless the lad takes a turn he will get on here." General Health. During the past year the general health of the children has been excellent ; there has been m> serious illness or accident, and no deaths have occurred. This is very gratifying considering that many feeble and delicate children have been admitted during the year. The healthy site of the school, with its extensive and sheltered grounds, enables the children to obtain fresh air and exercise in all weathers, which is a great factor in promoting their physical well-being. The judicious use of drill, physical exercises, and manual work in the open air also materially contributes towards this desirable state of affairs. We have also been fortunate as far as infectious diseases are concerned. The only case was one of cutaneous erysipelas; but, owing to the prompt measures taken in isolating this case, no further development took place. We hail one or two cases of ringworm—one of the most troublesome diseases of institutional life On the whole, however, we have had a most satisfactory year.

In connection with the general health of the children, it is interesting to note the increase in their weight since their admission. I append a list giving details of the weights of the thirty one boys in residence during the past year : —

1 am convinced thai the weighing of the children at regular intervals is the best method of detecting disease in its early stages. During the firs! year of their residence the boys frequently gain considerably in weight, but, of course, the gain varies considerably according to the disposition of the individual. Scholastic and Industrial Training. lam 'dad to be able to report thai we have made a commencement with our school work. Of the 31 boys in residence, 10 boyß are able to read more or less fluently, 17 are beginning to learn their letters. I can scarcely articulate, excepl one or two s.umds. II) boys have learned to write fairly well, and the remainder are learning to form their letters. Yerv slow progress is made with number, but it is very desirable rhai the boys should learn arithmetic, the practical application of which in their daily life is of value. The amount of book-knowledge, however, acquired by the best must always be small. While it is desirable not to neglect reading, writing, and arithmetic, it is from manual training that we must fexpecl the best results. The training of the hand and eye in useful work is profitable to the children.

Age. Date of Weight on ( , (in Admission. Admission. Ave. Date of Admission. Weight on Admission. I lain. 21 16 12 2;'. 19 22 20 12 12 II 18 15 II 12 7 18 St. lb. Mi. 18/1/09 7 9 II 16 15/09 9 7 I2.J 19 1/5/09 5 3 1 17 19/1/09 7 6 '.i.l J4 23/7/09 9 J * 18 5/2/10 7 1J 7| 14 13/1/10 8 4 131 13 5/2/10 5 8 3j 11 17 ()9 5 3 10 12 13 1/10 6 11 No change 7 .. . 22/4 09 I 6 17 13 3/2/09 5 I 23 '.i 21 9/09 3 II 5 14 8/7/09 3 12 I., 8 1/5/09 2 8 124 10 24/11/08 7 6 15 * Lost 4- 11>. 1/5 09 13 1/10 5/2/10 10/6/08 13/1/10 10/11/08 4/2/09 13/1 10 31/10 08 13 I 10 l 5 09 5 2/10 17 12/09 13/1/10 5/2 lo St. lb. 7 5 6 4 5 llj 4 1 9 9 3 9 1 I 4 6| 4 0 3 5 I I 3 I0f 1 9| 2 7| 9 5 lb. 21' 2| H 23 No change 10J 14 9| 14 H m n -", 7;! 3

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With the lower-grade children, sense-training is an excellent feature of the school, and part of each school session is devoted to this work. The cultivation of the children's special senses — taste, smell, sight, touch, and hearing —is very interesting work; and if, in the near future, we can model our Sense Room in the school on the lines adopted by some of the American institutions. we shall have made a valuable addition to our school work. While dealing with the question of school work, and its value to the children as oompared with manual and industrial occupations, 1 cannot refrain from quoting from the recent reports of some of the leading institutions in England, from whicli it is clearly seen that the general opinion of the experts at Home is that it is to the latter—viz., the manual and industrial occupations—that we have to look for the greatest improvement in the children. In a recent annual report of the Superintendent at Star Cross, in Devonshire, we hud stated, " The training of the pupils continues to develop satisfactorily on the same lines — thai is to say, by combining a maximum of manual instruction with a minimum of scholastic work— for it is by this method that the best results are obtained." And later we find, " Important, however, as is the scholastic instruction of the pupils, it is to the manual training we attach the most importance. Some children, owing to mental defect, seem quite incapable of learning ordinary school lessons, and require years of patient effort to enable them to master even the letters of the alphabet, or to count correctly up to twenty. Yet in many instances these same children, if put to a handicraft, will, in much less time, learn to make a pair of boots, a suit of clothes, or a fancy basket. Hence, as soon as it is recognized that a boy will never get beyond spelling monosyllables, or making O's or X's on a slate, it is evident that further time spent upon his education in the schools will be, to a great extent, wasted, and, if his age and physique permit, he is accordingly taken off school work altogether, and transferred to the manual classes, where frequently he learns to make himself quite useful." Again, in the latest report of the Eastern Counties Training Institution at Colchester, we find the Superintendent advances the same opinion. He says, "Acting on our past experience, we only keep those in the schools who are of school age, and as soon as possible we endeavour to teach them some industrial occupation.'" The general report for the year 1909 on the Sandlebridge Schools at Alderley Edge, near Manchester, states, "It becomes increasingly evident that, whilst ii is desirable not to neglect reading, writing, and arithmetic, it is from manual training that we must expect the best results. , ' And again, "The purely intellectual side of their education is not neglected; some of them can learn to read, and can do a certain amount of arithmetic But these are amongst the highest grade, and even for them it is evident that manual instruction is the most valuable." The evidence of the Superintendent of the Royal Albert Training Institution Cor the Feebleminded at Lancaster, England, is also well worthy of perusal. Speaking of the reorganization of the school work in the institution on a system based upon their more intimate knowledge of the work after forty years, he says, "Mere school instruction, per xc, is productive of little. Industrial training may, with advantage, go hand in hand with scholastic instruction, but in no case should a boy continue in school, however young, who is able to read and write: his place is on the industrial list, learning a trade. The elements of the industrial occupations could V taught in school, leaving the corresponding workshops available for the more advanced pupils. Nothing is better suited for the lower-grade boys than simple outdoor work in the gardens and grounds." . I entirely agree with these opinions, as they are quite in accord with my Home experiences. Accordingly, "we"are making our manual training and industrial occupations prominent features of our school work. . In addition to the farm and garden work, in which the boys are beginning to take an intelligent interest we are now commencing to teach them matmaking, basketmaking, sashoord and rope making Such occupations are very necessary, as we sometimes 6nd hoys who can never make any appreciable progress in school, and time spent in the listless contemplation of a blackboard is lost whereas in the workshops they may eventually do good work. Our teaching staff has been considerably augmented during the past year. I have now a lady teacher and three trades masters for teaching woodwork, mat and basket making, and painting Several of the boys are doing very good work in painting and decorating the new buildings now being erected at the school. One of the chief points in the treatmen is to keep each boy constants occupied. The beneficial results of this treatment are apparent by acting the improvement in the children, both mentally and physically. The dull and apathetic are roused to activity, the restless and noisy are restored to order, ami the more intelligent develop habits of attention and diligence. . . . ,■,■,,■ i 1 Seeing that manual instruction is the essential feature in the proper training of feeble-minded boys, it follows that a set of workshops is one of the indispensable requisites for our success and I am hoping that before next year's annual report is written 1 shall have the authority of the Education Department to proceed with the erection of suitable buildings for carrying on tins important branch of our work. Improvement. When training institutions similar to ours at Otekaike were first founded it was thought that it would be possible to fit the feeble-minded for all the duties and enjoyments of hi,., so that majority of feeble-minded persons be looked upon as responsible members of society.

2—E. 4

E.—4

10

Yet much <-ati l>e done to ameliorate their condition. The following extracts from my case book will perhaps best indicate what we arc doing for the children. They give a description of one case (") on admission and (6) after our year's residence at the school. Case X. Age as far as can be ascertained, 14 years .'! months, probably older. On Admission. At End i>l First Year's Residence. Height, 4 ft. 8 in. Height, -I ft. 0 in. Weight, I stone 111). Weight, 5 stone 4 lb. Head measurement, IBf in (microcephalic type). He lias improved considerably physically. He Small lor age; thin; not well nourished; is now able to concentrate his attention on any senses perfect : Forehead narrow, tapers towards work taken ill hand as far as manual occupation vertex; mouth-breather; hands well extended, is concerned. Memory improving a good deal, with incurved little fingers; cannot concentrate His habit of self-abuse is almost cured. Prom a attention; self-control very weak, easily led to mere habit of loafing and idleness, he has dedo wrong; given to self -abuse; dangerous with veloped into a fairly good worker. This boy is young children; prone to steal, and will gel up easily managed; he can lie easily led either for at night and steal food from cupboards. Has good or ill. and consequently, if allowed his been hoarded out. and in each case has proved liberty, would become the dupe of persons with too much for his foster-parents, who bad evidently a stronger will. His reading is improving, and Inlost all control over this lad. Natural result. is always anxious for hooks to read in recreationformation of all bad habits above referred to. lias time. His writing is better: his letters home ai been left too much to himself for years. Great first dealt entirely with pigs, cows, and horses: desire to gel away by himself, and imitate the his interest is now more diverse. Generally speak - cries and habits of all animals: in this direction ing, this boy lias improved a great deal during his powers of mimicry are perfect. Can read an his first year of residence here, infant primer; can lell how many pennies in (id., also .3 plus 4=7. Cannot tell the half of 3. or how many sixpences make Is., or how many days in a month or a year. The boys generally are working very satisfactorily, but it does not follow that they are sufficiently useful to keep themselves by their own exertions. In most instances constant supervision is needed. There is no reason, however, why in process of time some of the young men trained here should not be engaged as permanent members of the staff, where they could make themselves useful in various capacities. It is usually found that their general good conduct and the strict attention they pay to their duties is very gratifying. Many of the smaller children who were practically unable to dress and undress themselves are becoming quite useful in the matmaking class. This and other sense-training exercises, such as boot-lacing, bead-threading, button-sewing, clay-modelling, &c, materially improve the deftness of their fingers. It goes without saying that the State requires a practical return for the money spent in all its undertakings, and there are probably many who wish to know what the country gains by spending money on the education of afflicted children. The more one looks into the question of the training of mentally defective children, the more apparent it becomes that the State is doing the right thing in providing for the compulsory education of all these children who are educijble— i.e., those who, in the hands of the expert, can be taught, by arousing their dormant capabilities, to contribute somewhat towards the cost of their own maintenance, or who can be made sufficiently useful to become self-supporting under kindly guidance in a custodial institution. To those of us who are carefully watching the development of the dormant faculties in the children at Otekaike, ii is patent that the State will be amply repaid for the money which is being spent here, inasmuch as we are continually developing useful members of our own community who would otherwise remain absolutely useless units, with physical and mental deterioration slowly but surely awaiting them; and because, too, we are lessening the misery of the world, ami preventing the increase of the helpless and hopeless section of the Empire. But this brings me to the question of permanent control, and the necessity for legislation in this direction, on which T will touch later in this report. In concluding this portion of my report, 1 think we may well take to ourselves the words of Sir James Crichton Browne, M.D. (one of the Lord-Chancellor's Visitors in Lunacy), which are taken from an address given at the quinquennial festival of the Royal Albert Asylum, Lancaster. In speaking of that institution he says, " Tt is an institution that, as a nursery for infants of larger growth, as a shelter for the helpless and wayward, as a school for the e/lucable, and as an industrial colony for those capable of contributing to their own support, is doing admirable work." Ami, later, in speaking of the results of the training institutions, Sir James goes on to saw '■ Perhaps they have not accomplished all that was expected of them when they were first started, for there were then exaggerated notions as to what education could do for the dwarfed or deformed brain : but, considering the material supplied to them, they have worked wonders. They have not manufactured all these inmates into average men and women, but they have con verted to usefulness much waste human material. They have substituted health and vigour for languor and debility; they have infused brightness and happiness into many darkened and lives: and they have eased many homes of their grievous burdens,"

E.—4.

GROUND PLAN OF BOYS' COTTAGE.

The outbuildings (w.c.s, coal and wood) not shown. Each dormitory is provided with supervision-window from staff bed-room adjoining.

tiOO-9 -O. G3-* face p.//.

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Recreations The children enjoy the various forms of suitable outdoor recreations and walks. We arc now provided with a piano, which is very serviceable for teaching singing, musical drill, and also for our evening games before bed. Through the kindness of the Hon. George Jones, M.L.C., who allowed me the use of his paper, the Oamaru Mail, we have collected sufficient funds for a phonograph. Altogether, through Mr. Jones's help, we have a sum of nearly .£3O. The instrument will provide a eonstani source of amusement for the children. In addition, we hope to make our own records, to help us in our articulation lessons. Through the instrumentality of Mr. Isaac of the Education Department, we arc on the eve of possessing a magic lantern, which will prove a welcome addition to our stock of amusements for the boys on winter evenings. The provision of two or three bagatelle-boards would also be very acceptable. In addition to the amusemeni of the elder children, it would materially help us with the teaching of number. Additions to Buildings. We have had a very busy year in erecting suitable buildings for the boys and stall. During the year we have built a new steam laundry, new lavatories with hot and cold water laid on, urinals and latrines, and have also practically completed an entirely new drainage scheme with a septic tank attached, and duplicated our water-supply. We have also completed the building of a new house for myself, so thai in the course of a few weeks the rooms in the main building which 1 at present occupy will be available for u» ;is hoys' dormitories and schoolroom. The latest addition has been the erection of a separate cottage Eor the reception of special cases, so that we may commence a scheme of classification. All the new buildings that have liven erected have been reticulated Eor gas, as well as the main building. At present the whole of the buildings are lighted by kerosene-lamps. 1 am hoping, however, to see in the near future the completion of the generating apparatus for the gas, so that the great danger from kerosene lamps in an institution for the feeble-minded will be a thing of the past. While on the question of buildings. I may say that we are sadly in want of a kitchen administrative block, with stores and staff-rooms attached. 1 have prepared a plan of this building, and am hoping to Ix; able to proceed with its election shortly. This is a consummation devoutly to be wished as far as the economic and efficient administration of the institution is concerned. For the information of those who would wish to see the accommodation provided for the boys in the Classification Cottage, I append a plan of the same, which is on a scale of approximately one-tenth of an inch to one fool. Grateful Lbttehs. I have received many grateful letters from parents during the year, from which 1 lake the following extracts : — " Ith August, 1909. — 1 must say he is looking very well indeed; we certainly <lid uol expect to sec so much improvement- in him." ""nil September, 1909.—1t is a great pleasure to find him proud of being able to do Ihe various things he tells us about. Dr. , who saw him lately, says he is looking well and, as his letters prove, happy." " 6th December, 1909. We were pleased to have such a good account of his health and general improvement. I have noticed lately that his writing and composition have much improved." " "22nd December, 1909.—1 am pleased to say our little sou arrived quite safely, ami we are verj pleased to see him looking so well. Greal credit, is due to you in the managemeni of the school." " 22nd December, 1909. —We desire to thank you heartily for the healthy condition of the boj I cannot tell you how happy his mother feels since his return: he knows her. kisses her, and called her " mamma "—it made us so happy. Me called all his brothers by their name just as if ho had never left home. You have been, indeed, a kind and careful guardian of the poor boy, for which may God bless you and yours, and may you be spared in health and strength to carry out the good work for the helpless ones under your care!" " llth January, 1910.—Permit me to say that we have much pleasure in informing you that we see a marked change in for the l>etter, ami for your care and instruction of the little fellow allow us sincerely to thank you." " 28th January, 1910.—The boy is wonderfully improved. He never once went away from home unless taken by one of the family, and he got so obedient. The parents of the children under your care have much to be thankful for, and we must feel under a deep debt of gratitude to you I'm- your linn and humane treatment of the helpless ones under your tuition." " 3rd February, 1910.- You will be pleased to learn that every one we know has remarked on the wonderful improvement noticeable in him—physical and mental." Provision fob Feeblb-mindbd Girls. The provision of a suitable institution for the training of feeble-minded girls is, to my mind, even more important than providing for the boys. Feeble-minded girls and women form a large proportion of the unmarried mothers who come to the lying-in wards of workhouses in England.

12

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T]u\ appear again and again, and continually increase the burden of the country by producing degenerate and deficient offspring. It is estimated that, in England and Wales, six hundred feebleminded single women give birth to children in workhouses every year. Again, at the Wa,verlsy School for the Feeble-minded, in Massachusetts, particulars are given regarding 150 feeble-minded girls from the Lancaster Industrial School. Forty-five of these cases were sent to Waverley for permanent care, while the others either remained in the industrial school or were tried at large on parole. It was found that the girls sent to Waverley lived contentedly, and, under direction, did work of distinct economic value. Of the others, the large majority went I" the bad, and became prostitutes, criminals, drunkards, and became prolific breeders, thus becoming a source of danger to society. Probably some people will say that too much money is already being spent on the education of feeble-minded children; but 1 may point out that it is entirely false econonmy to delay providing lor the segregation of feeble-minded girls, inasmuch as delay means a continuous increase in tile numbers, as has already been pointed out. No one who looks the question of race-betterment squarely in the lace can for one moment condemn the expenditure necessary to equip an institution for (he accommodation of feeble-minded girls. 'Ihe climate of Otekaike is an ideal one, the grounds are iiiosi suitable, and the cost of administration would be considerably reduced by extending our work bo as to provide for the training of feeble-minded girls also. The Following extracts from letters I have received from the parents of mentally defective girls show that the provision of a girls' institution is needed: — " sth July, 1909. —Permit me to ask whether any progress is being made regarding the girls school. We are very anxious on account of my poor girl, who, 1 am sure, if properly trained could l>e made very useful if we are fortunate enough to get skilled training for her before it is 100 late. Any information you can give will be thankfully received." " 23rd March, 1910, —Referring to our young girl, may I ask whether there is any hope of your having an addition to your school, for girls, at Otekaike." " 16th February, 1910.—1 have been advised to write and ask you if there is any home for weak-minded girls. I took my sister to a doctor lately, and asked him what he thought about her. He said that she is not an imbecile, and that the best thing I could do for her would be to get her put through a system of training, and by doing so would .strengthen her mental organs. 1 do not know of any Home that 1 could get her into, so I would be greatly obliged if you could advise me in any way." That provision should be made for the reception of all feeble-minded children where parents are not wealthy enough to provide the special training, or where they have insufficient time to devote to such children, may be urged— (1.) For the child's sake. (a.) On account of the difficulty of obtaining sufficient exercise in the fresh air. (b.) The impossibility of obtaining home training, so as to divert their energies from mischievous habits. (c.) The impossibility of securing adequate protection from unkindness and injury There are cases on record of poor people with feeble-minded child leu who have tied their children up in a room or left them locked up indoors all day without a tire while they (the parents) have been out to work. In other cases they have been turned out of doors all day long, to run about without any supervision at all. 2. For the sake of the parents and friends. (a.) Because of the constant worry and anxiety inseparable from the care of a feeble-minded child under the ordinary conditions of home life, and the difficulty, under such conditions, of keeping the child from harm. (b.) Because of the interference with the training of the other children belonging to the family. Notification op Mentally Defective Persons. In connection with the Education Act, 1908, which provides for the compulsory education of afflicted children, I would suggest that some method of compulsory notification of mentally defective children should be adopted. By this means the probable number of cases, of both sexes, which we are likely to have to deal with could be ascertained, which would enable us to make our plans for the future. Further Accommodation for Boys. In addition to the thirty-one boys I have in residence at the school, there are over a hundred more cases under consideration. To accommodate anything like this number of additional cases it will lie necessary to extend our building operations by the provision of additional cottages. This number of cases has been found without any special advertising of the school, and points to the necessity for obtaining an accurate estimate of the number needing special care, in order that we may know the scope of the work which lies before us. Permanent Care and Control op the Feeble-minded. It is now generally conceded that mental deficiency is not a mere accident or freak, but that it is the result of certain definite antecedent conditions, and is largely inherited. It is also found that the feeble-minded problem is no isolated one, but is in fact intimately connected with insanity, epilepsy, alcoholism, consumption, and other conditions which give rise to mental and physical weakness. The question of the care of the feeble-minded, then, must be considered alongside of the important one of national degeneracy. In England, according to statistics, the average number

13

K. \

oi births to a marriage in the whole population is to'.S, and it has been ascertained thai the average number of births in degenerate families is 7.'5. Clearly, then, this is a question which should receive early consideration, as it is one which affects the future well-being of the whole nation. In England and Wales alone, according 1" the statistics givqji in the report of the Royal Commission of 1908, there were no less than 149,628 persons who were defective in mind. At the same time it was calculated that there were 125,f<27 insane persons, exclusive of those termed men tally defective. With regard to th; Dominion of New Zealand, we have already under consideration some 150 cases of mental deficiency, apart from those included as insane, habitual criminals, or chronic inebriates. These 150 cases have come to 1 ijjtl it without any special canvass, so that the total number of mental defectives in this Dominion who are as yet outside institutional care must be considerable. The Education \<-t of 1908 provides for the compulsory education of afflicted children between the ages of seven and sixteen, hut it cannot be assumed thai normal intelligence dawns at this ago as a mailer of course. A! this critical age the protection of (he law is still necessary. After-care Committees have been appointed in various Large towns in England with the object of promoting ilie welfare of defective, children when they have left school; but the results liuve been very disappointing. It is generally recognized now that the only thing for the majority of these cases is permanent control. The report of the Birmingham Special Schools' After-care Committee, dated 25th June, L 909, slates, " If the care and control of the mentally defective is to be confined to giving them an expensive education between the ages of seven and sixteen, (hen I," [Mrs. Hume Pinsent, Chairman of the Special Schools Committee] "for one, after nine years' experience I have had, should say, without the slightest hesitation, that the public monej so spent has been, and will be, entirely wasted. Hut if the public will listen to the experience gained in and through the special schools, and if they are willing to learn from that experience, and to insist on the legislation which it lias shown to be necessary, then every penny which has been spent on special schools will prove to have teen well invested, and society will be richly rewarded. A few of the mentally defective get on fairly well, and may be said to be harmless, but all lack the higher reasoning faculties, the majority break down, all are unstable and lacking in self-control, many commit anti-social acts and fall into crime and pauperism directly they are left to fend for themselves. There is no longer a shadow of doubt on the question —the mentally defective are persons who need lifelong care and control. Some, indeed, may occasionally Iμ; provided for in their own homes, but a very large number require institutional control in industrial colonies. It is only in this way that you can provide for these defectives humanely and economically. The greatest essential for the protection of the feeble-minded is power of detention and control." Again, in the same report, referring to that section of the feeble-minded who are above the age of sixteen years, and who are at their own homes and without training, Mrs. Hume Pinsent puts the case much in the same way as I have put it, on several occasions, to the Education Department. She states, "The great majority are therefore still without the care and control they so urgently need. This is not only deplorable for them, but means wearing out the overburdened mother, and often spoiling the lives and chances of normal brothers and sisters." lv conclusion, summing up the case for the amending of the Education Act for compulsory detention of the feeble-minded, Mrs. Hume Pinsent says, — " Therefore, after eight years with the defectives, the After care Committee would like to endorse their opinion, previously expressed, that, for a large percentage of the feeble-minded, permanent control is necessary for the following reasons: — "(1.) To enable them to contribute to their own support. " (2.) To save them from harsh treatment at home and in the streets. "(3.) To prevent them becoming drunkards, criminals, and prostitutes. " (4.) To prevent them giving birth to children who can only grow up to be a burden to the community. " The following diagram, concerning a family of degenerates, illustrates the need for .permanent control: — Father Mother (unknown). (mentally defective). Husband = Daughter (unknown). (mentally defective.) Daughter Daughter Daughter Son (prostitute —had child at (mentally deficient). (mentally defeotive, in (normal, respectable, earns fifteen years of age). special school). his own living). Son (illegitimate; mentally defeotive, in special school). " If the first mentally defective woman had been segregated, the birth of four other feebleminded persons and a prostitute would have been prevented." The habitual criminal, the chronic inebriate, the degenerate, the defective, and the insane should not be allowed to pollute the si ream of human development, As Professor Karl Pearson says, "The State must do in the future, consciously, what evolution, natural law, has done in the pasl. Segregation, without opportunity to multiply their kind, is the only profitable course for the social reformer who would reduce the number of the physically and mentally defective." This is a great question, beset with many difficulties, but it is one of national importance. That phase of the question with which we are more immediately concerned is the permanent care and control of the feeble in mind. The danger lies in the fact that these degenerates mate with

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14

the healthy members of the oommunity, ;iud thereby are constantly drugging fresh blood into th< vortex of disease,and so are continually lowering the general vigour of the nation. 1 trust that in the near future steps may be taken to amend our Education Aci so thai we may be able to permanently aggregate all those mentally feeble persons who are unable to control their own lives. They would all learn to contribute towards their own support. Society would be secure from their depredations and the danger of their propagation. Colony life would protect the feeble-minded against a certain section of society, and protect society against the feeble-minded. Co-NCLUSION. 11l conclusion, I should like to thank the Department for many kindnesses and practical sympathy during the serious illness of mv wife. I have , , &c, George Benstead, Principal.

No. 4.—INDUSTRIAL SCHOOLS.

TABLE H. —Expenditure on Government Schools, 1909.

TABLE H1.—Government Expenditure on Private (Roman Catholic) Schools, 1909.

TABLE H2.— Summary of Expenditure on Special Cases at Other Institutions, 1909.

_ ! New Hnililiii.'s New Buildings and other Works. (Included in first column.) Hecoveries. Net Cost. Coet ot hcliool, Boardius out Salaries. and other Government Schools. „," S '„',?„,, (Included in (Included in Works. lw w*5, n '' first column.) first column.) (Included in i.tnei Works. ... ,.,,i,,,, m , Hecoveries. Net Cost. £ 8. d. £ s. d. £ s. a. £ s. d. Auckland.. .. .. 8,809 9 0 1,046 8 1 550 12 6 Boys' Training Farm, Weraroa 8,047 17 8 107 14 8 2,083 14 6 213 8 S Receiving Home, Wellington 7,089 10 2 5,041 4 10 724 4 'J 0 10 0 Te Oranga Home .. .. (1,268 13 'J .. 848 5 8 4,302 18 11 ReceivingHome.Christchurch : 5,188 13 0 3,553 0 2 590 5 (I Burnham .. .. .. 9,091 9 8 ! (> 3 2 2,578 8 4 \ 1,320 18 5 Caversham .. .. 5,030 14 ti 2,904 9 7 775 12 11 j £ s. d. 213 8 S 0 10 0 4,302 18 11 1,320 18 5 j £ s. d. £ s. d. 1,205 10 2 2.103 18 4 1,729 7 11 6,318 9 9 4.380 15 7 2,703 0 7 191 19 4 6,076 14 5 2,241 14 3 2,947 3 9 1,015 8 9 8,070 5 11 3,436 17 8 1,593 17 0 £ s. d. £ s. d. 1,205 10 2 2.103 13 4 1,729 7 11 6,318 9 '.) 4.380 15 7 2,703 0 7 191 19 4 6,076 14 5 2,241 14 3 2,947 :l 9 j 1,015 3 9 8,070 5 11 3,436 17 8 1,593 17 0 Totale .. .. 44,026 19 5 '18,819 0 6 8,151 3 8 ' 5,838 2 0 , 44,026 19 5 •13,319 0 6 8,151 3 8 5,838 2 0 14,207 14 8 14,207 14 8 i i , i Salaries, travelling-allowances, ;md expenses of certain departmental officers (Inspec officers, &o.) Payments to certain former inmates of their earnings held in trust Grant to Postal Department in connection with payments for children boarded out .. Contingencies Total net cost • Exclusive of cost of administration, inspection, &c. , 101 ;tors, visiting ' 1,124 14 9 42 3 6 100 0 0 44 11 6 .. 31,430 14 6

Name of School. Gross Cost. Kecovorios. Nut Cost. it. Mafy's, Auckland It. Joseph's, Wellington It. Mary's, Nelson it. Vincent de Paul's, Dunedin Totals JB h. a. 1,642 5 0 .. i 205 16 5 890 5 9 173 19 0 2,912 6 2 £ a. d. £ b. d. 564 7 0 1,077 18 0 71 11 0 134 5 5 311 6 5 578 19 i 38 9 0 135 10 0 985 13 5 1,926 12 9

Government Schools. Auckland— Salvation Army Maternity Home Costley Training Institution Orphan Home, Papatoetoe.. " Door of Hope " Institution Wellington— St. Mary's Home, Karori .. Dhristchurch — Mount Magdala Essex Street, Refuge •• Auckland. £ s. d. 26 2 10 36 10 0 31 13 6 20 14 10 Wellington Te Oranga. lteceiving Home. Home. £ s. d. £ 8. d. 16 18 7 (J3 0 (I 5 0 0 Total. £ s. d. 26 2 10 36 10 0 SI 13 li 20 14 HI Iβ 18 7 63 6 0 6 0 0 Totals 115 1 2 16 18 7 68 6 0 16 18 7 200 5 9

15

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ADDITIONAL STATISTICS. Number on the books of all the industrial schools at 31st December, 190!) ... ... 2,380 Increase on numbers for the preceding year ... ... ... ... ... 117 On books of Government industrial schools at 31st December, 1909 ... ... ... 1,747 Increase on number for the preceding year ... ... ... ... ... 38 On books of private (Roman Catholic) industrial schools at 31st December, 1909 ... ... 533 Decrease on number for the preceding year ... ... ... ... ... 2.1

The following table shows the status of all the inmates at the close of the year: —

TABLE H3.—Inmates, 1908 and 1909.

TABLE H4.—Inmates, 31st December, 1909.

ALII > I II DIN All OX « UBX1UB. Number on the books of nil the industrial schools ;\t 31st December, 1909 Increase on numbers for the preceding year On books of Government industrial schools at 31st December, 1909 Increase on number for the preceding year On books of private (Roman Catholic) industrial schools at 31st December, 1900 ... Decrease on number for the preceding year 2,380 117 1,747 38 533 21 The following table shows the status of all the inmates at the close of (lie year: — TABLE H3.—Inmates, 1908 and 1909. Boarded out. In lies [dence. At Service, &c. T01 :als. r 2 8 r •■ S I 1 I I ! I I I i a a i 1 'I I i s a & I Government Schools— Auckland (Mount Albert) 82 Boys' Training Farm, We- 9 raroa Receiving Home, Welling- 275 ton Tβ Oranga Home, Christchuroh Receiving Home, Christ- 189 church Burnham .. .. 3 Caversham .. .. 166 Private Schools — St. Mary's, Auckland St. Joseph's, Wellington St. Mary's, Nelson .. St. Vincent de Paul's, 7 Dunedin Totals .. ..731 8 .. 90 38 .. f> 27 G4 .. 6 58 179 .. 4 175 4 5 159 6 .. 165 118 46 .. 164 286 48 .. 334 21 .. [ 296 6 1 .. 7 63 19 .. 82 344 41 .. 385 54 2 .. 56 28 2 .. 30 82 4 .. 86 10 .. 199 8 3 .. 11 82 19 .. .101 | 279 32 .. 311 2 1 124 2 .. 126 116 4 .. 120 243 4 .. ! 247 10 .. 176 36 .. 8 28 94 11 .. 105 296 18 .. 309 125 .. 2 123 49 .. 7 42 174 .. 9 1G5 37 .. 5 32 20 8 .. 28 57 8 .. 60 166 .. 15 151 92 .. 1 91 258 .. 16 242 4 3 44 1 .. 45 14 4 .. 18 65 1 .. j 60 I i _l 49 10 770 792 \ 15 36 771 740 113 | 14 839 2,263 146 29 2,380 6 48 41 4 32 4 18 TABLE H4.— Inmates, 31st Dk.cemher, 1909. Govern lent Schools. 'rival ;e Scho< >ls. All Sol lOOlS. InmateB. i Hi _LJL_ * B. G. B. B. G. a • s A a " S « a gs >ai o o o) oS G. B. G. I 1 s s « & B. B. G. 1 >,~ ', $* ."a SI 03? Si 111 ! I s £ o % B. Q. G. - I I I i •4 In the schools .. Boarded out With friends At service Training-ship In hospitals, convalescent homes, &c. In mental hospitals At School for the Deaf AtJubilee Institute for the Blind At Special School for Feebleminded Boys .. Under control of refuges or cognate institutions Under control of orphanage, cottage home, &c. In gaol Absent without leave, or whereaboutsunknown 49 U 7 27 11 6 •27 165 5 48 90 2 1 4 162 25 ■2\ 3 134 17 14 56 ..11 .. 116 83 2 11 16 18 34 32 ■I 66 ■2 18 116 11 34 1 126 1 38 44 110 If. 20 28 66 22 41 (iC 3 9 ->7 i 24 32 7 l<.) 116 19 43 35 G l:l 43 3 10 8 ill 443 170 268 3 6 294 327 87 196 771 770 257 4G4 3 9 389 679 178 332 3 5 88I| 1 91 .. 79 .. I OO 381 91 79 132 132 .. 1 1 .. 2 i i '2 i 3 A * • i 4 .. 4 4 0 1 7 6 1 .. 1 1 3 1 4 3 1 .. 1 1 1 1 2 3 7 17 17 10 . . 2 4 ■.!:! 1 -a '.'i ■l 29 1 '■2 i'; 2 65 2 2 67 2 51 16 '.'. 66 1,664 715 1 Totals 70 105 334 213 17:2 s<; 167 144 2+7 150 I.V.I so sr, 60 is? 5S 1,448 982 2,380

ALII > I II DIN All OX « UBX1UB. Number on the books of nil the industrial schools ;\t 31st December, 1909 Increase on numbers for the preceding year On books of Government industrial schools at 31st December, 1909 Increase on number for the preceding year On books of private (Roman Catholic) industrial schools at 31st December, 1900 ... Decrease on number for the preceding year 2,380 117 1,747 38 533 21 The following table shows the status of all the inmates at the close of (lie year: — TABLE H3.—Inmates, 1908 and 1909. Boarded out. In lies [dence. At Service, &c. T01 :als. r 2 8 r •■ S I 1 I I ! I I I i a a i 1 'I I i s a & I Government Schools— Auckland (Mount Albert) 82 Boys' Training Farm, We- 9 raroa Receiving Home, Welling- 275 ton Tβ Oranga Home, Christchuroh Receiving Home, Christ- 189 church Burnham .. .. 3 Caversham .. .. 166 Private Schools — St. Mary's, Auckland St. Joseph's, Wellington St. Mary's, Nelson .. St. Vincent de Paul's, 7 Dunedin Totals .. ..731 8 .. 90 38 .. f> 27 G4 .. 6 58 179 .. 4 175 4 5 159 6 .. 165 118 46 .. 164 286 48 .. 334 21 .. [ 296 6 1 .. 7 63 19 .. 82 344 41 .. 385 54 2 .. 56 28 2 .. 30 82 4 .. 86 10 .. 199 8 3 .. 11 82 19 .. .101 | 279 32 .. 311 2 1 124 2 .. 126 116 4 .. 120 243 4 .. ! 247 10 .. 176 36 .. 8 28 94 11 .. 105 296 18 .. 309 125 .. 2 123 49 .. 7 42 174 .. 9 1G5 37 .. 5 32 20 8 .. 28 57 8 .. 60 166 .. 15 151 92 .. 1 91 258 .. 16 242 4 3 44 1 .. 45 14 4 .. 18 65 1 .. j 60 I i _l 49 10 770 792 \ 15 36 771 740 113 | 14 839 2,263 146 29 2,380 6 48 41 4 32 4 18 TABLE H4.— Inmates, 31st Dk.cemher, 1909. Govern lent Schools. 'rival ;e Scho< >ls. All Sol lOOlS. InmateB. i Hi _LJL_ * B. G. B. B. G. a • s A a " S « a gs >ai o o o) oS G. B. G. I 1 s s « & B. B. G. 1 >,~ ', $* ."a SI 03? Si 111 ! I s £ o % B. Q. G. - I I I i •4 In the schools .. Boarded out With friends At service Training-ship In hospitals, convalescent homes, &c. In mental hospitals At School for the Deaf AtJubilee Institute for the Blind At Special School for Feebleminded Boys .. Under control of refuges or cognate institutions Under control of orphanage, cottage home, &c. In gaol Absent without leave, or whereaboutsunknown 49 U 7 27 11 6 •27 165 5 48 90 2 1 4 162 25 ■2\ 3 134 17 14 56 ..11 .. 116 83 2 11 16 18 34 32 ■I 66 ■2 18 116 11 34 1 126 1 38 44 110 If. 20 28 66 22 41 (iC 3 9 ->7 i 24 32 7 l<.) 116 19 43 35 G l:l 43 3 10 8 ill 443 170 268 3 6 294 327 87 196 771 770 257 4G4 3 9 389 679 178 332 3 5 88I| 1 91 .. 79 .. I OO 381 91 79 132 132 .. 1 1 .. 2 i i '2 i 3 A * • i 4 .. 4 4 0 1 7 6 1 .. 1 1 3 1 4 3 1 .. 1 1 1 1 2 3 7 17 17 10 . . 2 4 ■.!:! 1 -a '.'i ■l 29 1 '■2 i'; 2 65 2 2 67 2 51 16 '.'. 66 1,664 715 1 Totals 70 105 334 213 17:2 s<; 167 144 2+7 150 I.V.I so sr, 60 is? 5S 1,448 982 2,380

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The admissions to the schools during the year are classified according to the two following tables :—

TABLE H5.—Admissions in 1909, classified according to Cause of Admission.

TABLE H6.—Admissions in 1909, Classified according to Parents' Circumstances and Character.

Admitted as Government Schools. I ft if. s If i g a "Si I s l i 5. a s Private Schools. 2"! If Pβ 9 5« = c s a) c * a All bchools B. G. B. B. G. U. ]!. (i. B. E H. B. G. « I ! B. G. B. G. e. (;. Destitute .. j 9 Vagrant.. ..I 1 In disreputable I 1 associations Uncontrollable Accused or guilty of .. punishable offences By arrangement .. Transferred from gaol Total... ii, ( 2 4 0 27 15.. 4 2 8 1 5 1 1 11 .. 26 18 •1 2] 2 6 12 .. 1 3 20 4 7 2 1 .. 1 .. .. ' 4 2 1 2 11 3 5 1 Sir, \-l 26 .03 149 i l(i 30 I 56 1 2 j 1 .. ! 22 s ■• 4 2 1 10 11 7 I 17 3 44 i .. 2 .. 1 .. i '.. "l 23 88 1 2 2 3 8 3 1 9 98 294 11 32 36 12 7 88 4 29 ii 9 6 4 S '25 a 196 7' .2 i3 ! li i<? 17 I _l

Precedent Coi idition of Children ad nitted in 1909. Kathers described as Mothers described as I 09 a 5g II gtOn i HI » §8 f> ■< If I l| I ! s « ! g ! S.2 S g I Iμ $ g S Total. j Dead ■ Mentally unfit Good Questionable Dead Good Questionable Bad Unknown Mentally unfit Good Bad Dead Mentally unfit Good Questionable Bad Deserter Unknown Dead .. .. Mentally unfit Good Questionable Bad Dead Phjsically unfit Good Questionable Bad Mentally unfit, Good Questionable Bad Deserter Dead Mentally unfit Good Questionable Bad Deserter Unknown 2 7 1 8 7 3 17 1 9 3 2 1 4 3 7 7 10 4 7 1 12 1 1 4 2 3 8 2 9 2 1 1 2 8 1 1 .. a 7 !! a 1 4 2 !! is 5 2 2 4 3 '.'. '.'. io -a "\ .. i i i 1 2 1 1 14 4 9 1 7 .1 4 2 ■20 1 5 59 4 4 1 1 6 4 6 10 13 5 7 ia ii 14 2 1 17 9 6 2 3 10 .. ii IS 8 1 1 Bad 1 1 4 2 7 Deserter 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 J '.'. 2 '.'. 1 !! *8 Unknown 1 i i i 4 1 1 1 1 17 44 3 Totals 149 16 IG 56 44 9 I 291

17

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The admissions for the year (294) show a decrease of 40 on the Dumber for the previous year. From the four ohief centres of population 195 of these children wore admitted, and 10 each from Palmerston North and Thames. In no ease were more than t< children sent from any of the other smaller towns. The records show that, of the total number received, 38 per cent, were known to be illegitimate. When children are before the Courts the .Magistrates, after hearing evidence, direct in what religious denomination they are to be brought up. The orders made in 1909 show the denominations to be as follows: Church of England, 158: Roman Catholic, f>6: Presbyterian, 36: Methodist, 29: Baptist, 'A; Salvation Army, 2; Jew, 1. The number of inmates over whom the control of the schools terminated during the year was 177. Of this number, 114 were then of good character, 10 fair, 3 bad, 4 were of weak mind, 15 were discharged under the age of fifteen years (8 of whom were legally adopted). There were 18 deaths (10 under and 8 over fifteen years). lii 13 eases information as to character cannot be given, the whereabouts of the inmates who were absent without leave being unknown at the time of termination of the period of control. The number of deaths (18) shows aii im-rcase of 7 on the number for the previous year. Two children boarded out from Government industrial schools, aged 6 years and 4 months and 1 year and 7 months, died. 1 of diphtheria and asthenia, and 1 of shock from scalds. Two inmates resident at Government industrial schools, aged 9 years and 2 months and 14 years and 7 months, died, 1 of anaemia, and 1 of cardiac failure and bronchitis. Seven inmates resident at private industrial schools, aged respectively •'! years and 7 months, 17 years and 8 months, 10 months, :i months, 13 years and '■) months, 5 months, and 2 months, died, 1 of acute pneumonia, 1 of tubercular meningitis, 1 of diarrhoea and exhaustion, 2 of marasmus and exhaustion, 1 of acute rheumatism and myocarditis. lof gastro-enteritia and exhaustion. One boy, aged 1(1 years and 2 months, on his way to a situation was drowned in shipwreck; three young persons at service, aged 17 years and 1 month. I!) years and > x months, and L 5 years and 8 months, died, 1 of tubercular meningitis and asthenia, 1 from a fall from a horse, and 1 of pelvic abscess and pyaemia. One boy, aged 18 years and 5 months, died in hospital of phthisis. One boy, aged 16 years and 1 month, died in a mental hospital of epilepsy and exhaustion, and 1 young man. aged 20 years arid 4 months, absent without leave, was drowned at sea.

TABLE H7.—Discharges, 1909.

TABLE H8.-Inmates: Numbers of 1908 and 1909 compared.

3—E. 4.

Oanse of Die charge. Boys' Receiving Auckland, "gg-J. Weraroa. ton. Governmi l = intfi Schools. Receiving S Home, i Christ I a church § 5 B. G. . B. *= A «. Pri ivate Schools. All Schools. f| If! —i s, - « B, G. li. B. G. G. B. G. B. Q. Warrant ef die 8 6 4 7 charge leath .... 1 .. 1 leached age of .. 2 B 1 21 years [arriage • • ■ • Totals ' ]. 8 , 9 " 9 { « I I 3 1 1 g 4 3 16 111 8 3 14 1 1 8 8 32 ~~16~' 6 1 1 1 6 1 2 14 7 I 8 1 .. 1 2 9 10 •1 2 21 11 7 .. 67 12 25 38 10S 6 is 28 60 1 28 11 89 1 3 4 6 10 4 105 72 177 5 16 19

I At End of Year [nmates. I Increase or Hi'crease. 1908. 190<). _ _._L In the schools Boarded our With friends At 9ervioe Training-ship In hospitals, convalescent homes, &c. In mental hospitals School for the deaf Jubilee Institute for the blind At Special School for Fe-ble-minded Boys .. At Costley Training Institution Under control of refuges or cognate institutions Under control of orphanage, cottage home, &c. In gaol Absent without leave, or whereabouts unknown 792 771 731 770 191 257 421 464 1 3 ..7 9 11 7 2 4 1 1 2 15 13 17 8 6 .6 2 61 67 - 21 + 39 + 66 -t- 43 + 2 + 2 4 + 2 + 1 + 1 - 15 + 4 - 2 - 4 + 3 Totals 2,SOS 2,380 2,263 2,380 + 117 + 117

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REPORTS Or MEDICAL OFFICERS. Auckland Industrial School. Sin,— Auckland, 21st April, J9lO. I have to report that the cases of sickness during the past rear have not been serious, although there have been rather more slight rases of illness than usual. At the preseni the health nf all the children is good, and all are able to attend school. I have, &c, A. CiiAi.i.iMiK I'ruoHAs, M.8., CM.. M.R.C.S. (England), M 'dical Officer. St. Mart'B Industrial School. Auckland: Girls' Branch, Ponsonby. Sin,— Auckland, 2-tth April. 1910. I have the greatest pleasure in forwarding a report mi the above institution. In going through the building in all its minutiae 1 certainly can find no real fault. The dormitories are splendidly ventilated and kept scrupulously clean. The bedding is all that can be desired. The children are very healthy, dean, and well clothed. Their diet is well varied, good, and wholesome. The dairy is cool, clean, and well ventilated : the kitchen and cooking-range are fit for any institution of its kind. The Lavatories, w.-o.'s, and drainage are all in good order. In conclusion, 1 must say the orphanage is a great credit to the Sisters of Mercy. And from my long experience with this institution, great M-at is due to the Mother Superior Sister Marj Francis for her undying zeal and attachment to the little ones of this fast-grow ing large institution. I have, &c., W. J. Darby, Bon, Physician. Hoys' Training Farm, Wkhauoa Sir,— Levin, 2nd May, 1910. I have the honour to report for the year 1909—10 thai the health of the inmates of the Weraroa Training Farm lias been good, and that there have been no serious cases of illness. During the year l>r. Frengley, of the Department of Public Health, examined the inmates relative to the condition of their throats, and more particularly in respect to finding which boys suffered from adenoids and which did not. Quite a number of boys were declared by him to have adenoids, bill so far nothing lias been done to remedy this condition. I wish to point out thai this diseased condition is not the simple thing even some medical men seem to regard it: children who suffer from this condition are liable to serious diseases of the ears if the condition of not properly treated. [Note. —This matter is now remedied.] The water-supply of the farm is still defective, and 1 would again point out that a much better supply can lie procured a; a reasonable cost, ami ! hope this scheme will soon be rone on with. Although the ventilation of the sleeping-apartments has been very much improved during the year, 1 consider these apartments congested, and would suggest that provision I).' made to lessen the number sleeping in each room. A swimming-bath ami gymnasium are both adjuncts that would greatly benefit the inmates. and I respectfully suggest that they be added to this institution. The Manager and Matron have at all times done all in their power to me m carrying out my duties, and I have always found the premises in a clean ami sanitary condition, ami the inmates well cared for. I have, Ac, H. D. Mackenzie, M.D., Medical Officer. St. Joseph's [ndustrlai. School (Oirls) Wellington. Sir, Wellington. Kith May, l<llo. I have the honour to furnish (he annual report on St. Joseph's Industrial School ((iirls), Wellington. 1 have visited and inspected the school at regular intervals during (lie past year. There has been no epidemic, and no deaths have occurred in the institution during the year. One case of pneumonia occurred, and one of pleurisy, both making a good recovery. There have also been two cases of chicken-pox and two of mumps. Apart from these cases, the general health of the children has been very good. The school is still in the charge of Sister Mary Ambrose. The administration is excellent.: and the nursing arrangements, the sanitary, ventilating, and general hygienic conditions remain as satisfactory as they have always been under her efficient can-. 'I he children appear contented, well clad, and well nourished; and the school premises, dormitories, workrooms. A-c.. appear at all times scrupulously clean and neat. 1 am glad to be able to state that most likely in the course of another year the institution will be removed from the present premises to a new building at Upper Tfutt. for which plans are already in hand. This change will be extremely grateful and beneficial to children and staff alike. I have, At.. P, Mackin, M.D.. I'M!.('.S.l':.. Medical Officer.

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Wellington Receiving Home. Sir, — Wellington, Bth April, I'JIU. I have the honour t<; report that during the past year 1 have regularly attended the inmates of the Wellington Receiving Hemic, and also the children boarded out. There lias been very little illness of a serious nature during the past year. Summer diarrhoea (always a scourge among infants) has only slightly affected the children of the Receiving Home during the past summer, and has caused m> deaths. I attribute this immunity to, — (1.) The careful selection of intelligent foster-mothers by the Lady .Manager. (2.) The patient instruction in infant-feeding the. foster-mothers receive before they arc permitted to take a child from the Honi<\ (■'!.) The removal lo Lhe Home of any child seriously ill, when' ii receives more skilled at lent ion, and is isolated. I have, ifec, Donald MiCuin, M.D. Loud., F.R.C.S., Medical Officer. St. Mart's Industrial School, Nelson : Boys' Branch, Stokk. Sin, Nelson, 7th June, 1910. There is little to report regarding the Stoke Orphanage for the year ending .'ilst March, 11)10. The period has been free from any serious epidemic of illness, although there have been the usual numbers of minor ailments. There have been no deaths in the institution, bin one boy died of rheumatic fever in the Nelson Hospital. In December, 1901). there was a change in the management, Mr. Flaherty taking over deposition occupied by Mr. Harry. On the occasions of my monthly visits I found the dormitories and sanitary arrangements in a satisfactory condition. I have, &c., P. A. Bbtt, M.8., M.R.C.S., Medical Officer. Tβ Oranga Home, Christchurch. S m> Christchurch, 31st March, 1910. 1 have the honour to submit my report on Te Oranga Home, Christchurch. There has been no ease of serious illness amongst the inmates during the year, and their health as a rule has been excellent. A considerable improvement in conduct has taken place recently in several who were ver\ difficult to deal with a year ago. The usual high standard of cleanliness and order in the Home has been fully maintained throughout the year. I have, Arc. Jessie C. Maddison, MB.. Ch.B., L.R.C.P.1., Medical Officer. Christohuhch Receiving Homk. Sl[|j _ Christchurch, 30th March, 1910. I have the honour to submit my report for the Christchurch Receiving Home. The health of the children generally has been good, the chief cans.' of trouble having been «| ping-COUgh, of which there has been an epimedic in Christchurch. The members of the staff have frequently been affected by various maladies due to chill, the only discoverable cause for which is the frequent passing to and fro between the two houses. I should like the Department to note that one well-adapted house could be worked much more advantageously to all concerned. The management of the Home is conducted with unabated order and efficiency. The statistics I proposed to incorporate in this report concerning the physical development of the children arc so far satisfactory, but yet incomplete, as it ,\as not considered advisable ~, bring children up to the Home, especially for the purpose of measuring them. So far, fifty of them' have been examined. 1 shall be able to include the complete results in my next report. I have, &c. Jessii; C. Maddibon, M.8., Ch.B., L.R.C.P.1., Medical Officer. Bxthnham Industrial School. g ra _ Christchurch, 30th June, L9lO. I have the honour to'report on the health of the Burnham Industrial School for the ' ' There have been no deaths, and only one outbreak of illness in an attack of measles in March. Thei-e were about a dozen well-marked oases, bin the outbreak was limited by isolating the eases n, tents under the care of .1 trained nurse from Christchurch. Th nvenience and efficacy of

E.—4,

20

t tents for this purpose are superior to those of a building. There have, as usual, been a eon siderable number of sore throats and allied complaints, caused, in my opinion, by the condition of the septic tank, which requires a filter of the kind used at the Benevolent Asylum at Dunediu (the Cameron or Exeter septic tank). Notwithstanding this the general health and condition of the boys lias been generally good. The treatment of boys in class ,\1 for bad habits has been continued as before, with generally satisfactory results, but occasionally an incorrigible case occurs requiring more radical treatment. The tone and discipline of the school have been wonderfully improved since the reorganization effected in J 906. lam satisfied that the detention yard has proved a great assistance in reforming refractory boys, it has had no bad effect on the health of the inmates, but in certain cases of unhealthy boys 1 have not sanctioned their remaining in it. Thus, Mauri buys, who are often prone to consumption, are generally unfit for the detention yard. Tree-planting is regularly continued, but much more is required. 1 have, &c, W. 11. Symes, M.D. CaVEHSHAM IxOUSTHIAL SCHOOL. Sih,— Duuediii, 9tli April, 1910. in presenting tiie annual report of the above school, 1 have pleasure in stating that the general health of the inmates has on the whole been good. There have been a few cases of tonsillitis and swollen cervical glands. Two were sent to hospital for removal of adenoids and tonsils. One boy was sent to hospital with large discharging sore on neck, as no foster-mother would take him until it was better. One girl was sent to hospital with acute peritonitis, and died from pelvic ili.-cess and pyaemia. The child with tubercular knee has improved considerably this year. Two girls have given considerable trouble from incontinence of urine at night. Constipation is a very common complaint among the girls, and 1 should suggest the planting of more fruit-trees in the extensive grounds, such us good eating apples, pears, and plums. Among the boarded-out children, there have been a few cases (if whooping-cough and diarrhoea, and one or two boys have been sent to hospital for circumcision, and removal of adenoids. 1 have, &c., Emily H. Siedebeeg, M.8., L.R.C.P.1., Medical Officer. St. Vixcext dk Paul's (GielsJ Industrial School, Dunedix. Sin,— Dunedin, 30th June, 1910. 1 beg to submit my annual report on the St. Vincent de Paul Orphanage, South Dunedin. No deaths occurred during the year, and beyond a few mild cases of whooping-cough no cases of infectious diseases have to be recorded. The children are well housed, clothed, and fed, reflecting the greatest credit on the riev. Mother and sisters in charge of an institution whose hygienic and sanitary arrangements leave nothing to be desired. I have, &C, Eugene J. O'Neill, M.8., K.Ii.C.S.E., Medical Officer. KEPOriT OF HONORARY OFFICIAL VISITORS ON THE BURNHAM INDUSTRIAL SCHOOL. yi Hj — Christchurch. The Official Visitors have the honour to make the following report on the Burnham Reformatory School. It will be remembered that we took up the duties as members of the Board of Advice at a time when matters in connection with the institution were in a very unsatisfactory condition. Having given close attention to the work carried on at the school since our appointment, we can speak with confidence as to the good work that has been done since we assumed ofiice. The policy that has been followed by the Education Department in adopting methods that have found favour in other countries, and in initiating others more suitable to the conditions of this country in dealing with the neglected child ten of the State, has proved entirely satisfactory, with the "result that from the unsatisfactory condition of affairs that existed before this policy was initiated we have now a high standard of methods that reflects credit on all concerned. To obtain better results from that policy, it is essential that further additions be made to the present buildings. That portion recently ereoted was urgently needed, and assists in the work of administration, but further additions are necessary to allow of a complete system of classification of the inmates being carried out. And we express the hope that further efforts will be made in that direction. The buildings detached from the main our are out of date, and should be replaced by more modern ones, especially the one used as a laundry. When it is considered that laundry-work for something like 140 persons has to be done, a suitable building and more modern appliances are necessary to satisfactorily cany out the work than at present exists. Every care is taken with the inmates of the institution. They are well housed, well clothed, and well fed. Their physical welfare is well looked after by a course of physical culture and outdoor games. The military drilling of the boys is of a high standard, and is a feature of _the school, and the general appearance and bearing of the boys both on and off parade leave little to be desired, reflecting great credit on the management of the school and the officers.

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Carpentering. —The work performed in this branch of the industries undertaken at the school is very creditable. The boys engaged in the workshop display aptitude, and the work done by them on the large buildings that have recently been erected reflects credit on the instructor in charge of them. It may be mentioned that since this industry has been established at the school a number of boys have been turned out good workmen, and they are at present commanding full pay as competent artisans. Bootmaking. — ln this department also satisfactory work is being performed by the inmates m making, repairing, Arc. Farm-work. —A good training in ordinary farm-work is undertaken and well performed. In addition, the boys are taught dairying, the handling and care of horses, pig-raising, &c, and no effort seems to be spared to impart to the inmates a good working-knowledge in this industry, which must prove of benefit to such of them as are licensed out to farmers. Gardening. —ln this connection good work is also done by the boys. They are well instructed. and have the satisfaction of seeing each year a splendid return of produce for their Labour. In addition to these trades the boys perform al! the necessary work on the buildings, such as painting, plumbing, and general repairs, as well as the domestic work of the institution, in a manner entirely satisfactory. Management. — The management of the school is thoroughly performed by the Manager and Matron (Mr. and .Mis. Arohey)j and leave nothing to be desired, as both these officers possess the necessary qualifications for the successful management of such an institution as Burnham. The staff ably assists Mr. and Mrs. Archey in carrying <>nt 'lie details of management, and we desin in express approval of the work performed by them. We have much pleasure in reporting that the conditions as at present existing at tin; insti tiition are very satisfactory. We have. &c., Fred. Board, Emilt J. Guise, The Hon. the Minister of Education. Official Visitors.

No. S.—COSTLEY TKAINING INSTITUTION. Sir, Auckland, 16th May, 1910. I enclose copy of accounts of the institution to tin , 31st December, 1909. Yours, &c, C. Huuso.v, Hon. Secretary to the Costley Training Institution Trust Board. The Secretary for Education, Wellington. Costley Training Institution, Auckland. — Balanci-sheet for Period from Wh February, 1909, h> 31st December, WOO. Liabilities, t s. d. Asset*. £ s. <]■ (Jostley bequest .. £12,160 0 0 Children's Home, Ponsonby: Amount Mrs. Hodge bequest . . 742 3 9 owing on property sold to them . . 3,050 (I 0 12,892 3 9 Loans on Mortgage .. .. .. 8,625 0 0 Boys Trust Account .. .. .. 28 IK ."> Interest unpaid .. .. .. 128 4 9 Revenue Aooount .. .. .. 44K 11 ."> Jackson ana Russell, awaiting investment 968 10 7 Bank of New Zealand .. .. 5 7 3 ei3,:S<w I I 7 €13,307 11 7 Revenue Account fur tin Period fading 31«t December, 1909. i s. (I. £ >. d. To Lose on sale of buildings and land .. 31S II 9 By Balance as per last balanoe-sheet .. 374 11 2 Expenses, Interest .. .. .. .. 497 IS 0 Painting, fto. .. £38 8 I Realization Account .. .. .. 32 4 2 Fencing .. .. 22 o v Rent Account .. .. ..30 15 0 Office (thirteen months) 27 I 8 Sundries .. .. 35 13 2 118 2 11 Boys' maintenance .. .. .. 57 2 3 Balance as per balance-sheet above .. 44n' 1J 5 E936 8 4 £935 8 4 Auckland. 17th July. 1910. C. Hudson. Hon. Secretary. Examined and found correct. — Kohert J. Collins, Controller and Auditor-General.

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No. 6.—INFANT-LIFE PROTECTION. REPORT OF THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION. Education Department, Wellington, 'ilst May, 1910. The Hon. the Minister of Education. I submit the following report on the work of the Department in respect of infant-life protection during the yeai 1909. The original Act provided that on a parent's default the amount due to a Coster-parent for the maintenance of an infant might be paid by the Crown, and that " all moneys of the Crown expended under the authority of the Act in respect of any infant (including the expenses of medical attendance and of the burial of any infant) shall be a debt due to the frown for which the near relatives of the infant shall be jointly and severally liable. The said debt shall be recoverable in a Magistrate's Court, or any other Court of competent jurisdiction, by action at the suit of the Secretary for Education, in his own name, on behalf of the Crown. In practice it was found that the prescribed method of recovery involved legal proceedings altogether unsuited to the trivial amounts to be dealt with, for in these cases the payments must be collected at short intervals, or they cannot be collected at all. A subsequent amendment of the Act provided as follows : — "All moneys of the Crown expended under the authority of the principal Aci in respect of any infant maintained in a foster-home shall (without affecting the liability of any other person under the said Act} constitute a debt due to the Crown by the Hospital and Charitable Aid Hoard, or by the Charitable Aid Board, as the case may be, of the district in which the foster home is situated. ''Every such debt shall be recoverable in any Court of competent jurisdiction at the suit of the Secretary, in his own name, on behalf of the Crown, or may be deducted by the Minister of Finance from any subsidy payable in the same or any subsequent year to the said Board. " On the payment of any such moneys by any such Board to the Crown, all rights of action vested in the Crown against any other person for the recovery of those moneys shall become vested in the Board, and may be exercised by the Hoard in its own name and on its own behalf.'' This provision also was found to present difficulties If it becomes possible for foster-parents to get their money regularly and without trouble from the State, the energy which they are otherwise found to expend in collecting from the parents will of course no longer be put forth, and dependence on the State will inevitably become more and more the rule. This being the case, it appeared necessary to act with great caution in charging the Charitable Aid Boards with the large amount likely t<> be involved when it had to be considered also that these Hoards would seldom have an opportunity of reviewing beforehand the case out of which the expenditure arose. Though the intention of the Act is dearly that the persons who undertake the care of infants should lie guaranteed against hiss, it is equally clear that it was not intended to put upon the Crown the large expenditure involved in the guarantee. It has been considered that the one provision cannot be dissociated from the other, and therefore, so far as this matter is ooncerned, the Act is unfortunateh' very difficult to administer. In some few cases the foster-parent has been assisted to sue on the agreement under which she accepted the care of the infant, but no encouragement has been got from this plan, for after judgment has been obtained the means of collecting the debt have practically become exhausted. In other cases foster-parents have been assisted to take advantage of the provisions of the Destitute Persons Act. Ton often (his has been a last resource, aftei the foster-parent has kept the infant for many months, has obtained judgment against the parent and proved it ineffective, and is faced witli the prospect of having a permanent and expensive addition to her family. Even the operation of the Destitute Persons Act does not always meet the necessities of the case. An order may !>;■ obtained against tin , neat , relative of the infant, but it is not always effective. The proof of its inefficaoy may be a slow process, and the foster-parent may after many months find herself at the end of the proceedings in much the same position as she was at the beginning. Another method by which a Eoster-pareni may sometimes relieve herself of the charge of an infant whose parents neglect to provide for its maintenance is afforded by the Industrial Schools Act; but a child committed to an industrial school on account of destitution becomes a charge on the Charitable Ai<! Board, and not infrequently the Board successfully interposes to prevent the commitment. In not a few cases the possibility of making use of one or other of these methods of obtaining relief is negatived by the disinclination of the foster-pareni to appear in Court proceedings of any kind, or even to he the means of bringing the parent before the Court, in which event her finer feelings or her sympathies are unfortunately exercised only at the expense of her material interests. The foregoing remarks are not to be taken to indicate that the percentage of loss annually suffered by foster-parents as a whole is a very serious consideration. Xo estimate has at preseni been made as to what that percentage is, but there is gome reason to believe that it is not large. Thai there are individual cases of great hardship there can however be no doubt, and some simple and expeditious means of dealing with neglectful parents is greatly to be desired. The District Agents all refer to this mat tit : and it may be remarked that the difficulty in regard to medical attendance, of which they also complain, would be capable of easy adjustment if the Department had the means of doing what the Act contemplates in this respect.

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Numbers. The uuinber of infante thai have been dealt with in oik: w a \ or another (lining the year is 1,181 : the number for last year was 1,017. At the end of the year there were 726 on the books, being 78 more than there were Lit the beginning of the year. The Following tnble summarizes the transactions : Particulars oj Admissions to and Removals iron/ Licensed Foster-homes duriny 1909. ,; J: -M », -t ir. . cc ! |i 1. 1. i. I. I. if I I 1 I* I* J* I* I* Hi * Enteral Oti the Books. On the books at the beginning 97 LO3 149 103 IX 66 36 I<> 648 of the year Placed in licensed homes during 258 83 77 30 32 15 15 .. 510 the year Adopted with premium (exclu- 18 4 ! .. .. .. .. .. 23 sive of those already on the books) Total .. .. .. .. .. 1,181 Withdrawn from and remaining on the Books. Removed from foster-homes by 17 r>2 88 42 35 17 II 4 296 patents or guardians Deaths .. .. .. II 8 5 1 25 Adoptions from licensed homes 6 5 8 .'! I I t .. 28 without premiums In homes to which exemption was l> 5 I 2 '■'< .. .. .. 17 granted Brought under operation of the 7 1 '.I 5 1112 30 Industrial Schools Act Written off the books for various l> 12 8 5 1 2 I 2 23 59 causes On the hooks at 31st December, 82 91 195 121 78 75 55 29 726 1909 Total .. .. .. .. .. 1.181 The operations of the Ait depend upon the existence of monetary consideration in the arrange inent for keeping the infant, and if the persons concerned deny the existence of such consideration it is almost impossible to prove the contrary. A foster-parent, for instance, recently returned her license on the ground thai she intended to keep the infant without payment. Her statement was confirmed by the infant's mother. No good reason appeared for this benevolence, but no other evidence was obtainable, and the infant is consequently m> longer under supervision. That mi suspicion of improper motive attaches to this case dors noi affect its value as an illustral ion. Foster-homes. The 72(i infants on the books at the end of the year were in foster-homes as follows : In 436 homes each having one ... ... ... ... ... 435 In 84 homes each having two ..: ... ... ... ... 168 In 24 homes each having three ... ... ... ... ... 72 In 6 homes each having four ... ... ... ... ... 24 In 3 homes each having five ... ... ... ... ... 15 In 2 homes each having sis ... .. ... 12 554 Total of children 726 Twenty-two of the homes were those in which children under si\ were boarded out by Charitable Aid Boards. The total number of licensed homes was 754. so that at the end of the year there were 200 licensed homes in which, for the time, no infants were boarded. Every home is limited to a stated number of infants, but whether that Dumber is one or more depends upon the circumstances: in view of the varying conditions of the homes it is not considered necessary to lay down any precise rule upon the subject. Wherever the circumstances appear to require it, care is taken to define specifically the number of infants of twelve months or under that may be maintained at one time in a home. During the year there were 128 transfers of infants from one home to another. If it should become possible to extend to foster-parents the Government guarantee contemplated by the Act, many quite unnecessary transfers would be avoided, under the provision which vests in the Department the guardianship of infants for whose maintenance it has to pay,

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Rates of Payment to Foster-parents by Parents or Guakdians. An account of the rates paid is given in the following statement : 3at the rate of 2s. 6d. per week. lat the rate 01 9s>. 6d. per week 2 ~ Is. ~ 351 „ 10s. 11l .. ss. ~ 3 „ '10s. 6d 18 ~ Us. t/ 5 „ lls. 3 „ 6s. (id. „ 22 „ 12s. 37 .. 7s. „ 37 „ 12s. Gd. 72 „ 7s. 6d. „ I „ 11s. '34 „ Bs. „ 7 „ 15s. 7 „ Bs. 6d. „ 1 ~ 2Os. 1 „ Bs. 94 „ I ~ 21s. 21 „ 9s. Generally the relations of the infants provide clothing in addition. Ihe following comparison of the rates paid in 1008 and 1909 shows that the usual payment is about 1 Is. a week. Under 7s. .. .. .. .. .. [n 1908, ;in 1909, 45 7s. and under lOe. .. .. .. .. .. 164 .. 193 10s. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 297 .. 351 Over lOs. .. .. .. .. .. .. l'-\ .. 77 The foster-parents as a rule do their duty to the infants in all respects satisfactorily; some of them, when the occasion arises, exhibit an amount of devotion and self-sacrifice that is above all praise. They are often materially encouraged and assisted by the ladies who as honorary local visitors do much quiet and good work in connection with the boarding-out system. Exemptions.

From the provision that " it shall not be lawful for any person in consideration of any payment or reward to receive or retain in his care or charge any infant for the purpose of nursing or maintaining it apart from its parents or guardians for a longer period than seven consecutive days unless such person is licensed as a foster-parent," the Minister may μ-rant certain exemptions, and under this authority exemption has been granted to the institutions set forth in the following list, which shows also the numbers dealt with and the deaths. The conditions of the exemption provide for inspection, and for removal of the infants only with due formality.

Private individuals to the number of fourteen also received exemption. These were either adopting parents, or near relatives, or friends of the infants concerned. Deaths ra Fosthr-homes. Out of the 1,181 infants under six years of age that were at one time* or another on the books of the foster-homes during 1909, 2.~> died tliai is, 2MI per rent. Of these, 20 died in the fosterhomes, and 5 in hospitals or nursing-homes. Only in three cases did the Coroners consider ii necessary to hold inquests. Eighteen of the infants wen under the age of twelve inonilis. With 1,017 infants dealt with in 1908 the number of deaths was 2(> (2*56 per cent.), and, as that was shown to be a lower rate than the statistics of infant mortality would lead one to expect

Name of Institution. (1909) tieotha On the liooks at Admissions. ueatns. !]st u ecem i )orilgo9 I 1 i, 71 i i A ITT17 ! ! IS I 1 |5 I ! i≤ On the lioo! :!lst Uecembo St. Stephen's Orphan Home, Papatoetoe 5t. Mary's Maternity Home, Otabuhu Phe Door of Hope, Auckland salvation Army Maternity Home, Auckland 5t. Mary's Orphanage, Auckland jhildren's Home, Remuera, Auckland children's Home, Ponsonby. Auckland jook County Women's Guild Creche, Gisborne iVanganui Orphanage, Wanganui .. children's Home, Palmerston North it. Joseph's Orphanage, Wellington Salvation Army Children's Home, Wellington fhe Levin Memorial Home, Wellington Some of Compassion, Wellington .. it. Mary's Orphanage, Nelson iacred Heart Orphanage. Mount Magdala .. children's Convalescent Cottage, New Brighton Salvation Army Maternity Home, Christcrnirch it. Mary's Orphanage, Dunedin it. Viuoent de Paul's Orphanage, Dunedin .. Caritane Home, Dunedin .. i'r.esbyterian Orphanage, Dunedin Salvation Army Maternity Home, Dunedin .. /ictoria Memorial Home, Invercargill Salvation Army Children's Home. Middlemarch Totals .. 2 5 .. .. 6 4 1 2 2 .. 14 11 2 ..12 8 4 4 2 2 2 1 .. 2 2 .. 12 10 1 8 6 16 20 1!) 14 .. ! 21 2 3 12 .. 8 1 « .. 17 ' :. .. 10 4 6 7 .. ' 1G4 70 16 4B 42 3 69 12 8 ..14 8 I -I 1 I 19 1 1 4 .... 1 .. .. 10 .. 25 1 8 : 3 5 5 1 1 1 .. .. 10 6 2 2 2 .. 21 2 . . 67 10 0 5 1 10 12 4 ■• L8 IS .. .. .. J29 8 i -1 .. 12 9 8 f> 3 .. 1 1 .. 12 I 8 3 .. 445 193 45 C6 57 5 304 64 2R

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in this class of children, the results of the last year may be considered eminently creditable to the District Agents, their assistants, and the foster-parents. Particulars of the 25 deaths are given in detail in the following table. It will be observed that many of these children were for only a very short time in the foster-homes, the average stay being in fact not more than sixteen days.

Deaths during 1909.

Deaths in exempted Institutions. These, with other particulars, are shown in the foregoing table relating to exempted institutions. The number of deaths—G6 out of 445 infants dealt with—is a much larger proportion than is exhibited in the foregoing statement of the deaths in foster-homes, but the circumstances are not favourable to comparison, and all that can fairly be said is that it is the experience of the world that the death-rate of children under a well-organized system of boarding-out with foster-parents is much lower than that of children maintained in institutions. Adoptions. During the year, 215 orders of adoption (one in favour of two children) were made, and two> orders cancelling adoption orders. Forty-one of the adoption orders provided for premiums, and ]74 were without monetary consideration. The following shows the ages of the adopted children : — With Without Premium. Premium. Under 6 months ... ... ... ... ... ... 22 39 Between 6 and 12 months ... ... ... ... ... 7 18 1 ~ 2years ... ... ... ... ... 6 21 „ 2 „ 3 „ 3 17 „ 3 „ 4 „ 1 14 „4„ 5 „ 8 „ 5 „ 6 „ 8 ;; c „ 7 ;; 12 „ 7 „ 8 „ 1 10 ~ 8 „ 9 „ 5 „ 9 „ 10 „ 3 „ 10 „ 11 , 2 „ 11 „ 12 „ 6 „ 12 „ 13 , - r > „ 13 ~ 14 ~ ... ... i „ 14 „ 15 „ _1 _3 41 175

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Locality. Date. Sex Time in Foster- . f ; home. iwh ' Le g al Status. Death. ! Foster- Under home. Control. Cause of Death. Remarks. 1909. Jan. 7 1 I y. m. g § 2 0 : Illegitimate 1 0 VI 0 Auckland F Meningitis and convul- No inquest. aions Diarrhoea and enteriiis „ Hydrocephalus .. „ Immaturity .. .. „ Natural causes (heart disease) Infantile diarrhoea,, marasmus Ash burton Onehunga Auckland 20 22 Ftb. 3 M M P 0 11 „ 9 0 0 4 . 3 12 0 2 „ 2 0 0 2* ' ° U 0 2 * " i 1 14* 0 3J , 3 0 9 0 3 12 2 0 Hospital 6 M [■ 2 0 March 2 M 3 0 Christchurch H'spt'l 3 F ! 2 (06 " I 0 2* 1 1 Legitimate 10 0 I 11 0 1 Meningitis Onehunga „ 22 P 10 0 Tubercular meningitis syncope Malnutrition .. Inquest. Cerebral affection .. „ Convulsions .. .. No inquest. Gastro-enteritis Spinal caries and bron- „ chitis Colitis (diarrhoea) Marasmus and gastritis Marasmus Marasmus from natural causes Bronchial pneumonia and exhaustion Marasmus .. Gastritis and heart failure Acute bronchial pneu- „ mouia Wanganui Auckland April 7 20 25 „ 30 M M m F 0 8 J Illegitimate 7 0 0 4J . 4 0 0 74 Legitimate 0 12 0 2J „ 10 1 0 Illegitimate | q g+ 0 llf „ 11 0 0 7f Legitimato 2 0 0 5! „ If 0 0 6| 1 Illegitimate 5 0 7 0 4 0 0 12 1 0 New Plymouth Wellington May 15 M I 0 23 Onehuuga Timaru .. Dunedin Auckland 16 June 6 „ 17 July 19 P M M F 11 0 2 0 3 0 5 0 Wellington Aug. 25 P 10, . 11 0 11 0 Christchurch Auokland Sept. 5 6 P F 0 1 . 0 28 . 0 10 . 7 0 0 llf . 4 13 0 28 10 0 Wellington 14 P 7 7 Auckland Hospital Oct. 12 Nov. 26 M F 0 If Legitimate | ° 2^, 10 J 0 19 1 - " J 3 0* I 0 25 ]- 3 19 Marasmus Natural causes—infla- Inquest, mation of large intestine Dysentry .. .. No inquest. Prematurity and as- „ thenia Gisborne Timaru .. Deo. 21 25 M P 0 5 , Illegitimate 2 0 8 days. „ 0 5 4 0 0 5 * Hos! iltal. t NursiDi ;-home

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The adopting persons were,— Husband and wife jointly ... ... ... ... ... ... 176 Wife alone ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 4 Unmarried man ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 2 Spinster ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 3 Married man ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 3 Widow ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 6 Manager, Presbyterian Social Service Association, Dunedin ... ... 21 The amount of the premiums ranged from £10 to £100. ITie 41 adopted infants witli whom premiums passed have been under the supervision of the Department. The remainder passed out of eighi oil the completion of the adoption orders. It does not appear right that this should be so, for, although the Act provides thai any Magistrate may cancel an order for adoption, it is obvious, as was remarked last year, that much suffering may be endured by an adopted child before any neglect or ill treatment to which it may !><■ subjected becomes so patent as to call for public interference. The remedy would be either to place all adopted infants under supervision or to secure that orders for adoption should not take final -effect before the lapse of a considerable amount of time.

Illegitimacy. For its obvious relation to the intentions of the Infants Act the following table is given : —

During the year, 129 registrations were effected under the Legitimation Act. The expenditure for the year ended 31st December, 1909, was as follows: — £ s. d. Salaries of visiting nurses and local representatives ... ... 588 12 6 Travelling-expenses of District .Agents, visiting nurses, and local representatives ... ... ... ... ... 222 8 6 Payments to foster-parents for board of infants ... ... 95 17 11 Legal expenses ... ... ... ... ... ... 10 19 ti Office expenses (including rent), advertising, and sundries ... 82 18 4 1,000 16 9 Less recoveries ... ... ... ... 1S 19 8 Net total ... ... ... £981 17 1 Reports by the four District Agents are appended, and also, extracted from the Official Yearbook of the Commonwealth of Australia, an interesting summary of the methods adopted in the several States of the Commonwealth for the supervision of infant life. E. O. Gibbes, Secretary for Education. REPORTS OF DISTRICT AGENTS. Auckland. The Secretary for Education, Wellington. In compliance with your instructions of the 7th ultimo, I beg to report as follows: — During the year ending the 31st December, 1909, there has averaged 131 children in licensed foster-homes in this district. In addition to the children who through admission to foster-homes have been brought under the control of the State, there have been others under supervision, and visits and inquiries have been made relative to others again about whom letters and complaints have been received front persons interested in or concerned about their welfare. Much valuable knowledge is being acquired of infant life, and I think it will not be denied that the_ State is safeguarding life and health amongst a class which suffers most from the pressure of civilization. The factors which tend, through the administration of the Infants Act, to lessen the rate of infant mortality in the homes in which infants are boarded out are the supervision of the children

Provincial Districts. Number of ChildIllegitimate ren aged 12 Months Births registered or less brought during 1909. under the Act during 1909. Auckland .. Taranaki .. Hawke's Bay Wellington Marlborough Nelson Westland .. Canterbury Otago^ 316 43 52 327 15 40 15 227 188 60 8 18 67 5 1 79 38 Totals 1,223* 276 Totals for 1908 1,105 343 * Including 9 cases of twins.

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by a person whose trained eye and expert knowledge enable her to detect early signs of disease or disability, and to advise the foster-parent in the various crises which arise in a child's life; the added interest which the foster-parents take in their work, owing to the encouragement they receive; and the elimination of undesirable homes by discrimination in the granting of licenses. Much trouble has been occasioned through the difficulty foster-parents have experienced in obtaining relief when a parent deserts the child placed in their care. Theoretically such child should then be regarded as destitute, and the provisions of the Destitute Persons Act should apply, but there are many difficulties in the way, and women who might otherwise give a child a good Inline will not run the risk of being left with it upon their hands, with no redress. The health of the children during the year has, on the whole, been good; though there is still much suffering caused by premature weaning. Happily, cow's milk is being very generally used as the substitute for the mother's, in place of cheap artificial foods. There has seldom been reason for dissatisfaction with the management of licensed foster-homes. The foster-parents are, with scarcely any exception, kind and attentive to their charges. Some of them show, as is to be expected, a large ignorance of physiology, of proper feeding, and of sanitation; but they accept advice readily, and, as a rule, carry out instructions. Happily, the helplessness of infancy is its defence; and many a child finds a home in the arms of the woman who admits that financial necessity alone opened her door to the stranger. The difficulty of obtaining medical aid for children in licensed homes would be a matter for grave consideration were it not for the benevolence of medical men, who visit the homes without any expectation of a fee. With a view to increasing the efficiency of the system, I beg to suggest that a medical officer, chosen for his special knowledge of the diseases to which infant life is prone, be appointed and paid by the State, as is done in France (in country districts special rates might be arranged with local practitioners); that every help and encouragement be given to the mothers of illegitimate children, and others, to nourish their infants for at least six months; and that the placing-out of infants under that age be discouraged, bearing in mind, however, the danger of bringing about, by too great a rigidity of rule, that which the Infants Act was designed to mitigate; and, thirdly, that the failure of the parent to c<imply with the terms of an agreement for maintenance be regarded as terminating the responsibilty of the foster-parent. With regard to exempted institutions, I beg to suggest that monthly returns be required from the authorities of inmates admitted, in residence, left, or dead; that the number in residence be limited by the Department, so that there shall be no overcrowding; and that the massing of large numbers, particularly of very little children, in one building be discountenanced. I have before .remarked that the notification which is required by law of the birth of a child, to be of real value, should include the legal status of the child and the place of birth. The number of illegitimate children whose names appear on the Infants Roll is a very small proportion of the illegitimate children registered, and I am told it frequently happens that the birth and death of a child are registered simultaneously. A medical certificate ought to be required where it is proposed to place an unweaned child in a licensed home. It does not appear to be sufficiently recognized that a child has a right to its natural sustenance. France, however, has this to say in " Instructions relative to the Application of Article 8 of the Law of 23rd December, 1874 " : " Cet article a etc dicte par l'idee que le lait de la femme appartient non a elle, mais a son enfant." Anything savouring of compulsion may appear to be an infringement of parental rights; but what of the child's rights, including a firmer hold upon life and health which shall be of lifelong significance? He has more claim upon our consideration than has the parent; he had no part in the determining of his destination. The authorities of the District Hospital have been very considerate in regard to infants suffering from diseases; but they naturally object to receive those whose only trouble is alimentary. It would be of the greatest service were there some place where a child suffering from faulty digestion, marasmus, or similar complaints could receive expert care, such as the Matron of the Door of Hope gives to those who are so fortunate as to find shelter under her hospitable roof. In connection with the general subject of infant-life protection, there is one point which should not be overlooked : Care is being taken to save and rear the children of what is practically the least desirable class—so much so that the old law of the survival of the fittest will soon cease to operate to the advantage of the race. Keeping this fact in mind, as well as the best interest of the class concerned, it is evident that there ought to be a central institution or asylum to which young women of the temperament recognizable as " disSquilibrSe " might be committed, where, while supporting themselves, they might cease to be a menace to the community. Persons of this class are, from time to time, committed for a period of six or twelve months to such reformatory institutions as St. Mary's, Otahuhu, and to the Door of Hope, to the great detriment of the younger women, who, after a first fall, may be expected to recover themselves, and become useful members of society. Sarah E. Jackson, Auckland, 7th March, 1910. District Agent. Wellington. The Secretary for Education. 1 beg to forward my report upon the infant-life protection system, and a few suggestions as to measures which I think would increase its efficiency. Speaking of my own district, I think that on the whole the system is working well : we have not much difficulty in carrying out the Department's instructions, and, as I reported before, the strong opposition to us has passed away. Our visits are welcomed; indeed, we are met with reproachful looks and words if too long a time elapses between our visits. I think that the fostermothers now understand that we really care for the well-being of the children, and also that we are their friends if they do well by the children. In this way the value of the child is more

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recognized. The women are delighted to show us that the little limbs are getting rounded and the little faces rosy, and look so pleased when we praise their love for and care of the children. Some of the women are amazingly unselfish and loving to the fragile, ailing little creatures under their care. I think that the babies we get who are cared for in our licensed homes get on the whole a good start in life. The'serious question is, what becomes of all the illegitimate babies who never come under the control of the Infants Act? A leading medical man told me the other day that, some weeks, three and four cases of girls in trouble are brought to him. He thinks that, if it were known that a child could be supported by its parents in a licensed home without the parents' names being publicly known, the lives of many children would be saved, as girls would not endeavour to obtain abortion to hide their shame. It is not the money they are unwilling to pay, but the exposure that they dread. Ido not know how this could be done, but it must be remembered that the children of those girls, who doubtless belong to the more intelligent classes, would be better worth saving, from the State's point of view, as future citizens, than those of the class of girls whose children we mostly get. Nursing-homes where a woman takes one patient at a time, and so need not be registered, are a menace to infant life; illegitimate children are frequently born in them, and are placed out without coming under the control of the Infants Act. lam sure that little or no good result has been obtained from inspection of the Registrar's books. Would it not be possible to have it made necessary for every woman in whose house an illegitimate child is born to at once notify the Education Department of the fact, and for the Department to have power to send its women officers to inquire as to the future home of the child. lam quite sure that it would be wise to have all nursing-homes registered and inspected. I think that a cottage hospital is urgently needed for babies who require careful nursing— indeed, whose lives can only be saved by skilful treatment. 1 have nothing but praise for the behaviour of many women who have nursed children back to health at the sacrifice of their own health and comfort; still, I urn sure that many babies would be saved by being admitted to a cottage hospital where they would lie treated by the medical man appointed by the Department, and nursed by a woman whose sole care they would be, not by a woman with all the work of a house on her hands, as well as the claims of her husband and her own children. If the parents were made to pay for the children's maintenance in the hospital, the cost of the upkeep would not be so great. If it were established it would be an excellent place of training for our receivinghome girls after they leave school. It is almost impossible to avoid making a mistake sometimes, and granting a license to a home that is unsuitable. When we discover our mistake we watch the home carefully, never recommend parents to send infants to it, and soon find some reason for asking the woman to return her license to us, and thus the home is closed. Drink gives us more trouble than anything : we suddenly get a hint that a foster-mother whom we like and trust is addicted to drink, although her house is clean and well kept, and the baby is thriving; but, knowing how the drink habit grows, and the danger of a woman under its influence caring for a baby, especially at night, we feel great anxiety until we are sufficiently certain to be able to withdraw the license. Of course, it is only women who are drinkers at home secretly who can deceive us even at first. The weak spot in the system is undoubtedly the maintenance payments. I wish something could be done to help the foster-parents in that respect. Some of them say that they get their money more easily now than formerly. That may be so in some cases, but many women are very badly paid. I think that the reference to this subject in the Act needs to be removed or explained. The foster-parents say, " Why is it there if the Department does not mean to get the money for us? " That clause causes dissatisfaction, and makes the women think that the Department is breaking faith with them. I think many of the foster-parents are hardly treated on account of the attitude of the police towards the committal of infants to the Receiving Home. There are children in licensed homes whose parents are not supporting them, and who have been brought under the notice of the police as destitute, without any result. By the Department's instructions, when a foster-parent does not receive payment we tell her to bring the matter under the notice of the police. But if the police will not take the case up the poor woman goes on keeping and clothing the child for months while its parents do nothing towards its support. I do not believe that children benefit by life in an institution as compared to life in a fosterhome. The longer I work among industrial-school and infant-life-protection children, the more I admire the results of boarding out, and therefore I grieve to hear of such institutions as the Foundling Homes it is proposed to establish here and in Auckland. Such institutions are surely unnecessary in our young and prosperous New Zealand. I have done a great deal of boarding-out for the Department, and do not hesitate to say that I could still find hundreds of homes in which to place children with good, kindly women who would treat them as their own, and where they would grow up among green fields and in the free open life of the country, and not in narrowing institutions. It is not helping to raise the moral tone of people to encourage them to give up their natural responsibilities and allow them to hand over their little children to be nameless, friendless waifs in a Foundling Home. Surely it is far better to make parents support them, and have them boarded out in the homes of the people. I met two very intelligent women lately who have recently returned from England. They are both deeply interested in the welfare of children, and have studied the subject of boarding out. They told me that in connection with Dr. Barnado's work a large, amply appointed Home for infants was established in the country in England. A large number of babies were taken. In spite of every care they did not thrive. The rate of mortality was so high that the controlling authorities decided to use the Home for another purpose, and to board out the babies. I feel very keenly about this, for I have good, loving women who simply beg me to give them a baby to love and care for, and often I have not one to give them. Eu.\ S. Dick, Wellington. 10th June, 1910, District Agent,

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Christchurch. The Secretary for Education. I beg to report that there are now 194 homes licensed under the Infants Act in the Canterbury - Westland District, and 200 children boarded out. On the whole we have a very good class of foster-parents, and it has been found necessary to cancel only three licenses during the two years. Most of the foster-parents become very much attached to the children, and in a great many cases keep them without any hope of payment for maintenance, although they may be in poor circumstances themselves. I feel very strongly that something should be done to secure the foster-parents from loss in the matter of maintenance. There are a great many cases where the foster-parents are owed large sums, which they are not in a position to lose. The form of agreement which is signed by fosterparent and person who undertakes to pay for maintenance does not appear to be of the slightest value in most cases; and if a child's mother is summoned for maintenance, she confesses judgment, and that seems to be the end of the matter so far as payment is concerned. I beg respectfully to suggest that the foster-parent be authorized, when the payment is, say, four weeks in arrear, to take the child and leave it with the person who signed the agreement. With further reference to the maintenance question, I beg to point out that subsection (2) of section 46 of the Infants Act is very misleading to foster-parents, who take it as a guarantee that, if the parent does not pay, the Department will. Medical attendance for boarded-out children: With reference to this I would respectfully suggest that the Department should appoint a medical officer to attend children under the Infants Act free, or at a nominal charge, where cases are recommended by the District Agent or Visiting Nurse as deserving of such consideration. I may mention that Dr. Lester, of Christchurch, has been most kind in attending several cases of illness in licensed homes, on my recommendation. I am still strongly of opinion that the work in connection with the Infants Act should not be done at the Receiving Home. Anna B. Cox, Christchurch, 9th May, 1910 District Agent. DUNEDIN. The Secretary for Education. Repaying to your memo, with reference to the working of the Infants Act, I can only say that where the homes are convenient and even fairly comfortable, with capable foster-mothers on the one hand, and the responsible parties are keeping up the maintenance and supplying the child with necessary clothing on the other, all is well. We certainly have a number of good homes, and some splendid womeu as foster-parents, but our great trouble just now is to find homes at all, the demand is so much greater than the supply. We have some homes where conditions are not what we could wish, and where we are conscious that, while the foster-mother assents to the Visiting Nurse's proposals in her presence, in her absence the}' are not carried out —not always through unwillingness, but because they do not appreciate fresh air and much cleanliness; however, as we cannot find enough suitable homes we must use these. We find in the working of both the Industrial Schools Act and the Infants Act that folks are loth to take the care of the tiny ones, and particularly so where they are puny and delicate. Little ones from eighteen months to five years are easily placed. At times the pressure of work is much increased by the non-payment of maintenance-money and the need of clothes. While we recognize the fact that it would be unwise to relieve the parents of their responsibility, yet we are anxious to help and encourage the foster-parents, who, on the whole, are a most devoted and unselfish set of women; but this side of the question entails the expenditure of much time and work, and the non-payment often closes to us a good home. Even when the children are really ailing it is difficult to get the parents to consent to a medical man being called in, as they object to the expense; and in some cases doctors have refused to come on account of having previously lost their tees. Our own doctor has in more than one case since I became manager of the Caversham Industrial School given her services simply to relieve my anxiety, as she had done in the time of my predecessor. If the present arrangements for the working of the Infants Act continue, I would beg to suggest that we have a medical man appointed, in the same way as we have for the industrial school, to whom the foster-mother could apply after gaining our consent as in the case of the industrial-school children. At the time of the last epidemic of whooping-cough and measles many tiny babies were attacked, and in cases where they were teething complications frequently arose calling for medical skill, and yet we could not insist on the doctor's attendance unless we were prepared to take the risk of having to meet the expenses, which, however willing one is, is not continually possible. At this juncture we seem to need a Receiving Home. We are constantly being rung up by the Matrons of the Maternity Homes to say such-and-such a baby or babies must go out by a certain date: have we homes we can recommend the mother, who must set to work and earn a living for the child as well as herself? What is wanted is a Home in charge of a lady experienced in the care and feeding of babies, where the healthy babies could be placed temporarily (the Home, of course, receiving the maintenance-money), and where the puny, delicate ones could be nursed to a degree of health before being placed out. M m in: Kkmptox. Dunedin, 23rd April, 1910. District Agent.

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INFANT-LIFE PROTECTION.—FOSTER-PARENT'S RECORD-BOOK. Directions to Foster-parents. (The license should be kept in this book.) 1. Foster-parents are urged in their own interests to make themselves thoroughly familiar with the Act, the regulations, and these directions. The District Agents will be pleased to give all necessary information to foster-parents. 2. If any child under six years of age is received for the purpose of being maintained for payment or reward apart from its parents, the person who takes care of the child must apply to the District Agent at once for a license unless she has the written authority of the Minister of Education to maintain it without a license. 3. The license remains in force until it is cancelled. 4. No greater number of infants than the license allows may be maintained in the home at any one time for payment or reward, and any condition entered on the license as to the ages of the children to be maintained must be strictly complied with. 5. Whenever a licensed foster-parent receives a child into her home she must at once give notice to the District Agent, using the form headed " Particulars of an Infant received into a Foster-home." 6. The record-book and account-book must be carefully and accurately kept. 7. In every case an agreement, approved by the Secretary for Education, for the maintenance of the infant in the foster-home must be entered into between the foster-parent and the person who places the infant with her. It is most important for the foster-parent to have this agreement signed and completed before she takes charge of the child. The agreement should state clearly whether the foster-parent or the person who places the child with her is to provide necessary clothing. 8. If the agreement provides for a foster-parent to receive one or more lump sums to cover the cost of maintaining a child, instead of smaller payments at short intervals, these lump sums must on no account be kept by the foster-parent, but must be paid over by her to the District Agent, and regular monthly payments may be made to the foster-parent from this sum. 9. If at any time payment is not made by the parents or friends of the infant as agreed upon, the foster-parent should at once make application for payment to the person who made the agreement with her, and the District Agent should be informed immediately. 10. Any officer appointed under the Act may at any time enter and inspect a foster-home and the infants maintained in it, and refer to the record-book. He or ehe may lie accompanied by i medical practitioner, and may remove any infant wit limit any notice whatever if it appears necessary to do so. Such an officer must not lie hindered or obstructed in the performance of his or her duties. No one except a Government officer, a lady Local Visitor, or some one who holds authority from the Education Department or the District Agent is authorized to visit, enter, or inspect a foster-home or examine the foster-parent's hooks. 11. Foster-parents must comply with the directions given by the District Agent or her representative. 12. No child, whether under or over six years of age. may lie removed from a foster-home without the authority of some person appointed under the Act, and the foster-parent must not permit any such child to be removed without obtaining authority. The person removing a child must sign the foster-parent's record-book, giving the date of removal and stating the condition of the child at that time. 13. A foster-parent may not remove a child from one place of residence to another without obtaining consent beforehand from the District Agent. 14. If an infant require medical attendance the foster-parent shall, if possible, communicate with the parent or guardian immediately, but if the matter l>e urgent, she must, upon her own responsibility, obtain medical aid. The occurrence of illness must at once he reported to the District Agent. 10. If an infant dies the foster-parent must, within twenty-four hours, give notice to the District Agent and to the constable in charge 'if the nearest police-station, ami must not permit the body to be buried without the authority of the Coroner. 16. It is most important that no information received by a foster-parent concerning a child or its relatives be repeated to any one but the District Agent or her authorized representative. 17. Heavy penalties are provided by law for breaches of the Act: for most breaches the tine may be as high as £50, or the offender may be sentenced to imprisonment for six months. The District Agents and their addresses are as follows :— Auckland and Taranaki Districts : Miss S. E. Jackson, Industrial School, Mount Albert, Auckland. Hawke's Bay, Wellington, Marlborough, and Nelson Districts: Mrs. E. S. Dick, 117 Tinakori Road, Wellington. Canterbury and Westland Districts: Miss A. B. Cox, 39 Fitzgerald Avenue, Christchurch. Otago and Southland Districts : Miss M. Kempton, Caversham Industrial School, Dunedin. [The above directions are an epitome of the Infants Act and Regulations.]

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[Page 2.] Education Department.—The Infants Act, 1908, section 45. Record-book. (Note. —The respective entries must be made immediately after the occurrence of the incidents to be recorded.) [To be filled in by the foster-parent.] Record of Infant received into the Foster-home at , in Charge of Particular* nf Infant , a Entry. Date of entry into home : Age, and date of birth : Name of infant (in full) and sex : Remarks : [To be filled in by a person authorized by the Education Department. Date of first visit to child : Physical condition of child on first visit: [Signature and designation.] I'nits to Home. (By persona authorized by the Education Department or by medical attendant.) Date of Visit. Remarks. Signature and Designation of Visitor. [Printed or. page opposite to foregoing particulars.] Particulars of Infant's Removal. (Note. —It is against the law for any person to re ye any child (whether under or over the age of six years) from a foster-home, or for the foster-parent to permit such removal, except with the written consent of the Secretary for Education or other officer authorized by the Minister of Education to give such consent. Application for consent must l>e made to the District Agent.) (The warrant of consent for removal of the child should be kept carefully by the foster-parent.) [To be filled in by person removing child.} Date of removal : Name of person by whom infant was removed : Relationship of infant to person by whom it was removed: Health and condition of child at time of its removal: Signature of person removing child : Occupation : Address : Particulars of Infant's Death, if Death occurs. (The doctor who attended the child should be requested by the foster-parent to make these entries; if he does not do so it is the duty of the foster-parent to make them.) Date of death : Cause of death : Remarks : [Signature.] Visits to Home —continued. Date of Visit. Remarks. Signature and Designation of Visitor. [The two following pages provide space for recording further visits to the home.] [Extracts from the Infants Act and Regulations are printed at the end of the book.]

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SUPERVISION OF INFANT LIFE. [Extract from the Offirial Tear-booh of the Commonwealth of Australia, J910.] It has been frequently stated in recent years that, when the social, climatic, and industrial conditions are taken into consideration the infantile mortality of Australia, particularly in the large towns, is much higher than it should be. It is now generally recognized, however, that infant mortality is largely attributable to parental ignorance and negled. and that, in particular, improper feeding is accountable for perhaps the majority of infant-deaths. In all the States of the Commonwealth Acts have been passed with the object of generally supervising the conditions of infant life and of reducing the rate of infantile mortality, and in many of the large towns measures have been adopted by private individuals to spread among the mothers a knowledge of the best methods of feeding and caring for their infants. Milk Institutes have also been established after the manner of the Gouttes de Lait* in Europe, with the object of reducing the number of deaths of infants from milk poisoning in the summer months. Reference has been made in a previous part of this book to the number of infantile deaths and the rates of nfantile mortality in each State, and it will be convenient to here show corresponding particulars for the year 1909, classified according to metropolitan and other districts in each State : —

Infantile Deaths and Rates of Infantile Mortality for Metropolitan and other Districts, 1909.

It may be seen that in each State the rates of mortality are higher in the metropolitan than in other districts. The causes of " preventable " deaths may generally be attributed to milk poisoning, want of knowledge on the part of mothers, inability to nurse, and lack of the necessary medical facilities. The figures in the above table do not, however, completely represent the hygienic aspect of the question. For every infant death recorded there are probably three or four survivors who have sustained more or less serious permanent physical damage, quite apart from injuries at birth or congenital causes. It is stated that the far-reaching influence of the first year or two of life upon the whole subsequent physical welfare of the individual cannot be recognized too clearly, and it has been alleged that many serious defects and diseases occurring in later life may be credited to results ensuing from infantile disease. This is particularly the case in respect of digestive diseases.f It will be convenient to refer briefly to the principal Acts which have been passed in each State dealing with the subject of child-life, and to the principal functions of the States' Children's Departments. 2. New South Wales. —In this State there is a State Children's Relief Board under the direct control of an Honorary Board of nine members and under the administration of the Minister of Public Instruction. (i.) Scope of Operations. —The scope of the Department's operations comprises matters under the following Acts : — (a.) The Infants' Protection Act, 1904. —This Act deals with the control of children up to the age of seven years in licensed homes, and with the supervision of such homes. These latter fall into two classes —(1) The private homes of individual women householders, licensed for two or three children, and (2) institutions maintained by public subscription, licensed for any number of children up to 100. The Act also deals with paternity proceedings in connection with the enforcement of maintenance for illegitimate children. (b.) The State Children's Relief Act, 1901.—This Act deals with the boarding-out of destitute children, and includes the extension of monetary aid for children under twelve years of age who are allowed to remain with their own mothers when the latter are widows or deserted wives in destitute circumstances. (c.) The Children's Protection Act, 1902, deals with the supervision of lying-in homes, in so far as the children born therein are concerned. It also provides for the registration of children up to three years old boarded out privately apart from their mothers.

* Organized action in this direction commenced in 1894 in Belgium. The original Belgian society is known as the " Societe dcs Oouttes de Lait." The movement has become an international one, and branches of the society have been founded all over Europe. Similar philanthropic work was commenced in the United States of America before 1894. t See Report of Department of Public Health of Tasmania for 1(106-7, by J. S. (.. Elkington, Esq., M.D., D.J'.H., Chief Health Officer.

Districts. N.S.W. Victoria. Queensland. S.A. W.A. ! Tasmania. C'wealth. Number of Infantile Deaths. [etropolitan .. 1,297 1,129 J 328 320 244 85 3,403 Ither .. .. 1,937 1,122 781 293 349 272 4,754 Rates of Infantile Mortality.— I.e., the number of deaths of infants under one year of age per thousand births, [etropolitan .. : 82-07 I 84-47 90-23 69-50 81-44 74-76 81-92 Ither .. .. 69-23 61-72 65-54 53-40 75-78 62-34 65-55

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(d.) The Neglected Children's and Juvenile Offenders Act, 1905, has provided for the establishment of Children's Courts throughout the State. The Act deals with the disposal of neglected and uncontrollable children and juvenile delinquents who come before the Courts. It contains provisions for the supervision of truant children, and for the introduction of machinery necessary to carry out the purposes of the Act. (p.) The Public Instruction Act, 1880. —The supervision of all children of school age is carried out by officers of the State Children's Relief Department, and action in regard to truancy and prosecutions for breaches of the compulsory clauses of the Public Instruction Act are undertaken. (ii.) General Supervision of Conditions of Infant Life. —The principal functions of the State Children's Relief Department are as follows : (a.) Provision for sickly infants, with or without their mothers, at the homes at Paddington and Thirlmere. About twenty children are treated in each home, (b.) The compulsory attendance of guardians of infants, boarded out independently by their mothers under the Children's Protection Act, at the Metropolitan Hospital fortnightly, in order that the children in their charge may be systematically supervised by the doctors, and the development of ailments checked, (c.) A home for healthy babies, twenty in number, at Croydon, with their mothers, the object being to free the latter from the more or less contaminating influences of large institutions, and at the same time to protect the children from dangers of infection. (</.) The establishment of separate cottage homes for invalid children, according to their ailments, including special cottages for the scientific treatment of epileptic and feeble-minded children, (c.) The supervision of all children dealt with at the Children's Courts, with the exception of those sent to the training-ship " Sobraon," the Carpenterian Reformatory, and the Industrial School for Girls. A special aspect of the Board's work under this heading is the supervision of children released on probation, and of children committed to the Farm Home, Mittagong. 3. Victoria. —The conditions of infant life in Victoria are to some extent supervised by the Department for Neglected Children and Reformatory Schools under the Neglected Children's Act, 1890, the Crimes Act, 1890, and the Infant-life Protection Act, 1907. In Melbourne the Lady Talbot Milk Institute was established in 1908 in order to provide a supply of pure milk for infants. In the first annual report of the Institute it is stated that out of about three hundred infants supplied with milk by the Institute during 1908-9 only eight died. Creches have been established in many of the suburbs of Melbourne. (i.) The Neglected Children's Act, 1890.—This Act provided for the establishment of receiving houses and probationary schools, and for the committal of neglected children to the care of the Department already referred to, or to approved private persons or institutions. Assistance is afforded to the Department by ladies' committees in finding suitable homes for boarded-out children, and in supervising these homes. A receiving depot has been established, and special schools are provided for boys who are backward in their education. A certain number of boys, who bear the best of characters, are sent to learn farming at the Rutherglen Viticultural College. During the year 1908 there were 1,240 children committed to the care of the Department. The total number of children who were a cost to the State at the end of the year 1908 was 4,163. During the same year 132 boys and 85 girls were placed in service. (ii.) The Crimes Act, 1890, provided, inter alia, for the establishment of reformatory schools for convicted children. During the year 1908 there were fifty-two Court committals and ten transfers from gaol to reformatory schools. (iii.) The Infant-life Protection Act, 1907.—This Act came into force on the 31st December, 1907, and all infants then in registered homes were transferred to the care of the Department. Provision is made for the inspection of registered hojnes, which are divided into districts, allotted to four inspectors. The Act does not provide for the registration or supervision of Maternity Homes. The number of children in registered homes at the end of 1908 was 304 ; the number of deaths during the year was 48. It is stated that this large number is in a great measure accounted for by the inability of the infants, most of whom are in an unsatisfactory state of health when received, to withstand the unusual heat that was experienced. (iv.) The Children's Court Act, 1906.—This Act provides for the establishment of Children's Courts in every place in the State where a Court of Petty Sessions is appointed to be held. Any boy or girl under the age of seventeen years may be released by the Court on probation under the supervision of a Probation Officer, who may at any time bring before the Court any child under his supervision who has broken any of the terms of his probation. The Courts have power to commit children to the Neglected Children's Department or to reformatory schools. 4. Queensland. —The Infant-life Protection Act, 1905, is administered by the Commissioner of Police. This Act provides that, with certain exceptions, no person may receive, in consideration of any payment, into his house any infant under the age of three years for the purpose of nursing such infant apart from its parents for a longer period than forty-eight hours, or of adopting such infant, unless the person is registered as the occupier of the house and the house is registered as a nursing-home. Registration of adopted infants is compulsory, and notice of the birth or death of illegitimate infants must be given within three days. Police investigation occurs in the case of every illegitimate child born, whether the child be finally sent to a nursing-home, adopted, or taken charge of by parents or relatives. At the end of the year 1908 there were 123 homes (of which 62 were in Brisbane) registered under the Act, the number of infants in these homes being 182. During the same year there were 113 prosecutions for breaches of the Act, convictions resulting in 112 cases,

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The Lady Chelmsford Pure Milk Institute was opened in 1909 for the supply of a clean pun' milkin Brisbane for infant-feeding. The delivery of the milk began on the Ist July, 1909. 5. South Australia.—The State Children's Act, 1895, provides for the constitution of a Council to have the control of all State children and the supervision of all institutions for their reception, education, or training. The Act provides for the establishment and inspection of institutions, for the commitment, release, and apprenticing or placing-out of children, and for the licensing and supervision of lying-in homes and foster-mothers. Illegitimate children are also received into the institutions under the care of the Council, and are placed out in various homes. It is stated that the result, so far as illegitimate children are concerned, is that the death-rate of infants supervised by the Council is under 7 per cent., while the death-rate of those not under such supervision is 15 per cent. On the 18th June, 1909, there were 1.383 children under the control of the Council. 6. Western Australia. In Western Australia the State Children's Act, 1907. provides for the control of boarded-out infants, the registration of foster-parents, and the general supervision of the conditions of infant life and of neglected or destitute boys and girls under the age of eighteen years. The Act is administered by the State Children's Department. The registration of Maternity Homes is obligatory, and persons acting as paid foster-mothers to any child under the age of three years must be licensed. Neglected or destitute children may be committed to orphanages, and convicted children to industrial schools. There is one Government institution under the Act, and it is used as a receiving depot for the temporary detention of all classes of children. The Act also provides for the establishment of Children's Courts, which must not be held in any Police or other Court House. With regard to the prevention of infantile mortality, the educational aspect has been met by the free distribution of pamphlets giving directions to mothers respecting the care and feeding of infants. 7. Tasmania. —The Infant-life Protection Act, 1907, which is administered by the Commissioner of Police, provides for the protection of illegitimate and privately boarded-out infants, and for the compulsory registration of nursing-homes and occupiers. Notice of the death of an infant in a registered home must be given within twenty-four hours, and the adoption of illegitimate infants under five years of age must be registered. Notice of the birth or death under the age of five years of an illegitimate infant is also compulsory. The Act also deals with paternity proceedings, in connection with the payment of preliminary or maintenance expenses for illegitimate children.

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