The whole system of teaching in the elementary schools has been thrown off its balance by too many lesson-books, but it is righting itself again, and some of the memoranda on teaching, issued by the Board of Education within the last few years, are quite admirable in their practical suggestions for promoting a more efficient preparation for life.

The Board now insists on the teaching of handicrafts, training of the senses in observation, development of knowledge, taste, and skill in various departments which are useful for life, and for girls especially on things which make the home.

The same thing is wanted in middle-class education, though parents of the middle-class still look a little askance at household employments for their daughters.

But children of the wealthier and upper classes take to them as a birthright, with the cordial assent of their parents and the applause of the doctors.

It is for these children, so well-disposed for a practical education, and able to carry its influence so far, that we may consider what can be done in school life.
We ourselves who have to do with children must first appreciate the realities of life before we can communicate this understanding to others or give the right spirit to those we teach.