BAFFLED parents are being offered classes in how to tame their teenage tearaways.

Courses aiming to improve communication between parents and teenagers are being run in Pickering, as part of a wide range of lessons dealing with children of all age groups.

Teacher and parenting skills specialist, Mary Cowton, is running the classes at the United Reformed Church on Thursdays, from 7pm.

Ms Cowton said: "The aim is to help the parents to help their children grow up.

"The idea is that if you are helping a child to become an adult, they are less likely to rebel as they learn about becoming an adult.

"One of the biggest problems is communication and the courses encourage people to make a connection with their child - and they often are, it is just that they are not listening."

To enrol, contact Mrs Cowton on (01751) 472398.