From the INTRODUCTION.
The purpose of this collection is to give teachers of little children the means of teaching these delightful forms of physical training so that the best and most happy results may be obtained.
Singing games are the most natural expression of happy childhood. They have been sung, danced and played by countless generations of children, who have handed them down, a priceless heritage.
To the teacher of physical training these games mean a process by which sound and sturdy bodies are made, senses trained, rhythmic expression taught, and fundamental social qualities developed. To the child, however, they mean a happy period of enjoyment. This the teacher should always remember, but should never allow the larger purposes to interfere with a full and intimate participation in the spirit of the occasion.
The present collection is the result of Miss Wollaston's years of careful research and painstaking trial, thoroughly established upon sound pedagogical and hygienic principles.
One of the most valuable features of this work, is Miss Wollaston's unique and definite form of presentation, which, while preserving intact the natural tone of the invaluable traditional spirit, yet brings to bear the latest and best in education.