The first co-ordinated, all-Island programme of parenting classes has been completed successfully, according to organisers, the Isle of Man Children's Centre.

Although the classes have been run for a number of years, this year was the first time the charity organisation had put together a coordinated programme of courses and workshops for parents.

The result was a record number of attendees, the IOMCC reports.

The classes have been held each term-time week at one or more of the IOMCC’s three Family Centres in Woodbourne Road, Douglas, Bonwick Family Centre, Lezayre Road, Ramsey and Barrule House, Ballasalla, as well at the Philip Christian Centre, Peel.

The courses have covered everything from learning basic parenting skills for those with toddlers, right through to handling awkward teenagers with behavioural issues.

Special sessions were also provided for coping with divorce and separation and its impact on the child. 

The IOMCC has also run workshops on how to handle tantrums, how to get your child to eat and sleep properly and on building emotional security.

With the latest series of programmes having been such a success, the IOMCC are now planning their next “in-take” of applicants for the autumn season.

Mrs Craine praised the charity’s ongoing commitment to supporting parents throughout the Isle of Man.

During the presentation ceremony, which took place last week at Ballacreggan, Lonan Old Church Road, she said 'No amount of planning can prepare you for being a parent and it is impossible to predict at what stage of a child’s development you may need advice and support.

'I am delighted that the Isle of Man Children’s Centre is assisting so many parents in facing the difficult challenges of parenthood and am pleased to be invited along to present these well-deserved certificates.'

Sue Smith, the IOMCC’s Parenting Education Coordinator, said the ongoing demand and commitment shown by parents to become better parents was all the incentive that the IOMCC needed to carry on running classes.

'The Children’s Centre is a long term supporter and champion of positive family life,' said Sue. 'Being a responsible parent is the most important job anyone could ever hope to do and everyone who has completed our latest round of courses should be rightly proud of their achievements.'

The IOMCC has structured the programme to provide daytime sessions for parents with younger children where crèche facilities are also available and evening sessions for those with older dependents. 

Where possible, both mothers and fathers are encouraged to attend.  

Meanwhile, leaflets detailing the autumn programme are now widely available throughout the Island and at each of the IOMCC's Family Centres.

For more information, call the IOMCC on (01624) 676076.

Pictured: Minister for Education Anne Craine MHK presents certificates and a commemorative poster to parents who have successfully completed the Isle of Man Children Centre’s latest round of parenting classes.