From Milady’s Boudoir

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 57, Issue 248, 31 July 1937, Page 4

From Milady’s Boudoir

The Nervous Child

PJVHERE are many small folk who, in the hustle and strain of modern life, are building up their future health of mind and body on very insecure foundations. Nervousness, which in adults manifests itself in various distressing ways, often makes its appearance in the early impressionable years. This is the time when it should be fought, for it is much easier to dispel at the beginning than later on. A recent talk with a specialist attached to a hospital for nervous disorders revealed much that should be of use to mothers. If a boy or girl shows any signs of nervousness—fear of the dark, dislike of meeting strangers, undue worry over school lessons—try to stamp out the evil right away, otherwise it may grow as the child grows. Importance of rest—long nights and sound sleep and whenever possible a nap in the afternoon—cannot, according to the specialist, be too greatly stressed in the case of the nervous child. Milk in plenty, lots of fresh cream with milk puddings or fruit, plenty of eggs and good butter, wholemeal bread, vegetables, sticks of barley sugar as sweets—all are excellent body and nerve builders. . The next important thing is that the child should take up some kind of hobby, preferably one which takes him out of doors a good deal and necessitates his meeting other people, particularly other . children. Gardening is suggested as a splendid i health-giving hobby, the mother, father ] and friends endeavouring to show a keen i interest and to give assistance when desired. Mothers will be particularly ] pleased to hear that dancing as an aid 1 to the nervous child is thoroughly re- ' commended. If possible, the boy or girl <

should join a happy little class—a morning one preferably—so that the rest of the day is free '"«[ Modelling with any of the .materials 1 used by modern schools is advised. Woodwork, too. A small shed fixed in the garden could be used with advantage by the small worker, who would thus obtain fresh air and occupation—two of the most effective curative methods. • It is urged that mothers and friends should not show any great concern in the presence of the child. Quick to understand and to feel “anything wrong,” the nervous person must be kept free from any suggestion that might make him believe himself “different.” Middle Age Wisdom. If you are middle-aged, look forward, not back. To look back and make comparisons between life in youth and life in maturity is to become, perhaps, a little wistful. Look forward. The future is pleasant, shaped, as it is, by your experience. i The woman over 40 who goes in for “slimming” instead of healthy dieting is inviting trouble. “Slimming” methods may bring down the weight dangerously in relation to age, but sane dieting will keep the correct balance. People of middle age should take advantage of their superior years to accept courteous help from the younger folk. Youngsters feel snubbed, and often re» lapse into uncomfortable silence, when their well-meant offers of assistance are refused, however kindly. Besides, men and women who are nearer 50 than 40 should rest as much as possible, to conserve their energies for times when they have to compete, in work or play, with the rising generation. Be calm as you grow older. Refuse to become tremendously excited about things, steer clear Of being “kittenish”— which means, in their case, being ridiculous. t