More than 25 years of pediatric teaching and practice form the basis for this British study. Investigating the normal child from birth to five years of age. Illingworth discusses problems other than diseases.
The book is divided into four major areas: aspects of breast feeding, physical growth, maturation, and behavior. A proponent of breast feeding, the author considers both its advantages and disadvantages. The chapters on physical development cover many common problems. including teething, umbilical hernia. and the desirability of circumcision. The teachings of Gesell, under whom Illingworth studied, pervade the section on normal maturation. Interesting examples enliven the author's discussion of occurrence and treatment of behavioral problems such as temper tantrums, refusal to eat, and jealousy. Included under psychological development are what the author calls, with elegant simplicity, "Annoying Ways."
Equanimity, the happy result of coping with anxious parents and wailing babies, informs this third edition. Abundant good sense