After this brief review, the only conclusion that we can come to is, that everything depends upon a proper system of physical training. Without a systematic development of the physical frame, a healthful and vigorous intellectual condition need not be looked for. The mental and the physical parts of education are as inseparable as the action of the mind from that of the bodily organs—they are created for and adapted to each other, and so sympathize as to form an harmonious whole. Now, if the mothers of the land will give their attention to the subject of Physical Education, the mortality of childhood will decrease, the condition of mankind improve, enjoyment be promoted, and, by enabling all to cultivate the higher faculties and affections, the human family will effect the nearest approach to perfection that it is possible to attain on earth.
F. H. GETCHELL,
1432 Spruce Street, Phila.
October, 1870.
INFANCY.
I hardly know so melancholy a reflection, as that Parents are necessarily the sole directors of the management of Children; whether they have, or have not judgment, penetration, or taste, to perform the task.—Greville.
Man’s breathing Miniature!—Coleridge.
PRELIMINARY CONVERSATION.
1. I wish to consult you on many subjects appertaining to the management and the care of children,—will you favor me with your advice and counsel?
I shall be happy to accede to your request, and to give you the fruits of my experience in the clearest manner I am able, and in the simplest language I can command—freed from all technicalities. I will endeavor to guide you in the management of the health of your offspring;—I will describe to you the symptoms of the diseases of children;—I will warn you of approaching danger, in order that you may promptly apply for medical assistance before disease has gained too firm a footing;—I will give you the treatment on the moment of some of their more pressing illnesses—when medical aid cannot quickly be procured, and where delay may be death;—I will instruct you in case of accidents, on the immediate employment of remedies—where procrastination may be dangerous; I will tell you how a sick child should be nursed, and how a sick room ought to be managed;—I will use my best energy to banish injurious practices from the nursery;—I will treat of the means to prevent disease where it be possible;—I will show you the way to preserve the health of the healthy,—and how to strengthen the delicate;—and will strive to make a medical man’s task more agreeable to himself,—and more beneficial to his patient,—by dispelling errors and prejudices, and by proving the importance of your strictly adhering to his rules. If I can accomplish any of these objects, I shall be amply repaid by the pleasing satisfaction that I have been of some little service to the rising generation.