THE first group of parents and children have successfully 'graduated' from a new course aimed at giving an insight into how and why youngsters develop as they do. Run by the West Somerset SureStart family link team at the Alcombe Children's Centre, the course was based on methods used by Dr Tanya Byron, the consultant clinical psychologist behind the popular TV programme Little Angels. The seven-week course explored behaviour and development and helped parents to put in place strategies to overcome sleep problems, fussy eating and challenging behaviour. Parents were also given an understanding of age appropriate play and how to share and reward fun experiences. Mum Claire Jenkins said the course, called I'm A Parent Get Me Out Of Here, had proved a huge help. She said: "The course was fantastic and it really helped me deal with my twins' sleeping routine and their development. "I only wished it could have gone on for longer." Every parent who completed the course was given a certificate of achievement. More information about future courses is available from the centre on 01643 700030. Family link workers Jacqui Walters and Marion Vincent are pictured front left, holding Chloe Stone and Tyler High, with parents and their youngsters. Photo: Steve Guscott.
