Starve A Fussy Eater December 7 2005
Parenting tips from a bygone age
Next time your child refuses to eat their greens, how about starving them of all food for 24 hours? And what
about using a smack to ensure your child gets a good night's sleep? It sounds bizarre now, but both these
tips were given as parenting advice in the childcare magazine Nursery World.
The magazine, which is currently celebrating its 80th anniversary, has released some examples of the advice
issued in its columns in days gone by. As Liz Roberts, the magazine's Editor puts it: 'While we would never, of
course, advocate some of the advice given in the past, such as smacking a crying baby to encourage it to
sleep, it is really interesting to look back on what was considered acceptable in the past.'
Top Bygone Tips
How to cure a fussy eater: 1926
You cut out feeding times for 24 hours. He has water in abundance, exercise, rest, peace. After that you will
have no trouble with regard to food and the wicked boy may be transformed into a likeable young person who
appreciates mealtimes.
How to get a good night's sleep: 1936
A nanny writes: My (18-month-old) charge would wake up every night and cry. One night, instead of petting
her, I gave her a smacking instead. Every night after than when she woke up and cried without reason, I
smacked her. At the end of three weeks, I found I had undisturbed nights of rest.
How to gain a sought-after nursery place: 1986
The magazine highlights questionable practice: "It's easy," one mother said. "You just have to say you're
frightened that you're going to start hitting the kids. Then you'll get a place!"
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