A GROUNDBREAKING parenting course – hosted by Burnley FC – has kickstarted a fresh approach to life for parents both on and off the pitch.

Not only has the 20-week long ‘Parents On The Ball’ provided family-friendly health and fitness advice but has also given key insights into new household skills.

The parents taking part in the sessions were offered support with managing difficult behaviour, practical skills such as storytelling and life skills such as budgeting and routes into employment.

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Outside of the classes they were also given one-to-one backing at home and encouraged to take part in further activities at their local children’s centre.

Helen McKee, director of children’s services at Action for Children, said: “Sports clubs are very much at the heart of the community, contributing to the well-being and self-esteem of millions of young people and parents across the UK.

“We’re proud to complete this first milestone with Burnley FC to further our vision to improve the lives of young people and families in the region.

“We look forward to developing this innovative partnership in the forthcoming months.”

Burnley has benefitted from a range of parenting courses, ranging from assistance for problem families to more low-intensity interventions in the community, for the best part of the last decade.

But using the backdrop of Turf Moor is a fresh departure for the charity and club.

Neil Hart, Burnley FC’s head of community, added: “We are really pleased to be working with Action for Children as the programme of activities has been able to make a real, tangible difference to both the parents and their children.

“The club-run sessions have introduced parents to new activities, helping them gain more confidence through physical activity.

“Using the power of football and the brand of Burnley FC we have been able to have a direct and positive impact on the present circumstances of these families and their futures.”

Research shows that children benefit most when their parents communicate honestly about events or discussions that have happened, explain clearly to children what happened and how they were involved and stay consistent Children need structure and parents that have normal routines benefit children. Parents should also take interest in their child’s educational needs and early development and get to know child is learning and doing and how it is affecting them.