PREFACE
Certain definite ideals have been constantly in mind in the preparation of the present volume, among these the following:
To write a handbook that is so definite, concrete, and clear that the least experienced person of average intelligence will find it practical.
To bring directly to those who have opportunity to use it,—the home-makers, present and prospective,—some of the wealth of present knowledge in biology, dietetics, hygiene, domestic efficiency, child psychology, education, that is stored in the laboratories, research reports, medical records, technical journals, and educational classics, translating these from the obscure tongue of technical language into the clearer speech of daily life.
To furnish a guide to more technical or detailed consideration of each subject.
To present fundamental principles and facts rather than mere rule of thumb procedure, so that the reader may act intelligently and make intelligent variations.
Not to compromise on half-way procedure that merely prevents disaster, but to make clear the means to greatest personal efficiency and social power.
To keep a progressive yet reserved attitude between conservative and radical theories.
To bring the spirit of sympathy and humanness, of love and child-nature and poetry into the teaching of home-making.
To lighten the burden and enlighten the minds and hearts of earnest young people so that with joy and satisfaction they may essay and find the home and family life that their hearts desire.