Children's health camps in New Zealand: the making of a movement, 1919-1940.
The children's health camp movement in New Zealand was the product of early twentieth century concerns about national efficiency and racial strength. Inspired by open-air schools in Europe and the United States, the movement shows how overseas models were translated into a distinctive New Zealand institution, based on a national appeal for funds, and combining voluntary effort with solid government support. Although health camps had a strong socialization function, it was easier for doctors and laypersons to intervene in children's lives in the name of health, than under any other rubric. In the space of 20 years health camps changed from informal summer events held under canvas, into substantial institutions operating on a year-round basis. By 1940 their symbolic status was more important than any demonstrated achievement in improving child health.
Tennant
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History Department, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.
D000293:Adolescent; D000388:Air; D002648:Child; D002662:Child Health Services / Q000266:history*; D002675:Child, Preschool; D006294:Health Resorts / Q000266:history; D049673:History, 20th Century; D006782:Hospitals, Special / Q000266:history*; D006801:Humans; D009520:New Zealand; D012572:School Health Services / Q000266:history*; D014376:Tuberculosis / Q000266:history*