Organisers say the courses, which are due to start later this year, are intended to teach parents how to understand teenage behaviour and how to break 'bad behaviour cycles'.

HDC community safety officer Greg Charman said: "Parenting a child is one of life's biggest challenges and, for many, the teenage years are the most demanding.

"Despite being responsible, too few parents look at their technique and consider different approaches which can often create a different response.

"For many, this is a chance to take guidance on strategies that work and is a real opportunity to change old habits."

The course has been developed by a local counsellor who gives university lectures on teenage behaviour.

Topics covered include: breaking behaviour cycles, understanding normal teenage behaviour, how to gain confidence in dealing with teenagers, effective communications, and saying 'no'.

For more information, course dates or to book a place, call (01403) 215124 or email community.safety@horsham.gov.uk

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