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Historical photo captions written by . 

Institute of Child Study

Pencil drawing of JICS on 45 Walmer Rd.

Pencil drawing of the Institute of Child Study on 45 Walmer Road.

A dated photo of eight children at JICS.

The eight children in this image are likely the first U of T Interdepartmental Nursery School class (later St George's School located in a house on St. George that is now the Syd Smith building). The class started in September 1925 with four children from parents in the Department of Psych and by January had grown to seven.

A dated photo of toys used in free play at the Institute.

Shown here are some of the toys used in free play –some thought this was a radical way to spend school time.

Dr. Blatz with child talking about her artwork.

Dr. Blatz with child talking about her artwork.

A dated photo of cots in a room at JICS.

This shows the cots for nap time. Blatz felt that having physiological needs met in consistent routines children could more comfortably and securely, play and learn.

A dated photo of children washing their hands at JICS.

Hygiene was an important routine—each phase was taken in steps with the provided tools (wash cloth, comb, soap and wash bowl).

A dated photo of the JICS playground.

This is the playground that was overlooked by the UofT President’s office to the left. President Falconer was happy to have this noisy distraction moved to Walmer Road.

A dated photo of the dining room of JICS.

Eating was also a vital part of the day’s routine (meeting a vital physiological need Blatz called an appetite). Children were encouraged to try all foods at least once.

Nicholas Laidlaw

Six photos of Nicholas Laidlaw.