The next step of development, after forming clear visual impressions, and closely allied to it, is the development of the faculty of observation. The eyes see, but the brain perceives. The sense organs bring a sensation to the brain where, by the act of perception, it is classified or identified as being like certain other objects and filed away in its proper place. Recognition goes a step farther and places this object alongside of one particular mental image, which it resembles. Standing by the gate in the twilight you see an object coming down the road. As it approaches you Perceive that it is a cow. As it comes closer you Recognize it as Neighbor Jones' cow. You Perceive that it is a cow, but you Recognize her as a certain cow, different from all others. It is a fact that the eye may be perfect, and the nerve connecting it with the brain may be in good working order, and yet no impression may be received by the brain. Injury to that area of the brain which receives the impression from the eye may cause total blindness; at the same time the eye and nerves connecting it with the brain may be physically perfect. When the brain is not injured, the same result is brought about by lack of Attention. The eye can look straight at an object and you do not perceive it. The brain does not accept any impression of it. Attention is necessary that the sense impressions may be properly perceived and recognized; and this completed mental operation is commonly called Observation. Trained senses that react quickly make possible quick perception and recognition. The result is quick, accurate, and complete observation. Observation requires knowledge and it develops definite knowledge, but most people are poor observers. Help your children to be definite in their knowledge and to know what they know. How many can tell the different trees by name? How many legs has a spider, a fly, a bee, a butterfly? It is a strange fact that the poorly educated are the best observers. Do not lose sight of the necessity of helping the child to form the habit of observation. It is the basis of common sense. Do not let him grow up ignorant of the common knowledge and experiences.