Loescher, Home Intervention Worker and Gwendolyn Creary, Supervisor. Between them they have 26 years of experience. Their jobs bring them face to face with behaviour problems daily.

Ms Creary talked about the theory CDP uses. They follow the concepts of Rex Forehand of the University of Georgia who teaches two phases: 1. Parents are taught the skills necessary to focus on the positive. This will lessen misbehaviour.

2. The parent must teach the child the consequences of misbehaviour, but in a positive way.

Ms Creary explained she and Ms Loescher take an eclectic approach and use ideas for conquering bad behaviour from many sources. "We focus on family and family issues which cause bad behaviour,'' she added.

When asked to name the top four behaviour problems the behaviour specialists reported: 1. Aggression by biting, chocking and fighting.

2. Bedtime, when and where.

3. Tantrums.

4. Non-compliance issues.

Ms Loescher reiterated: "As families find solutions to these behaviours they must do what they are comfortable doing. The subjects of bedtime and spanking are controversial hot spots.'' Both specialists agreed that most paediatricians recommend ten to 12 hours of sleep per night for children under five.

Research on spanking shows that spanking results in violence.

When dealing with child tantrums it is important for the child and parent to reach a control point. Many parents find that simply embracing the child tends to squelch tantrums.

The recommendation for coping with non-compliance from young children is to get eye to eye with the child and communicate simply and firmly your requests.

Ms Loescher recommended, "Parents should trust their instincts by reaching out in a kindly manner to the child.'' Ms Creary concluded: "You are your child's best advocate, you know your child's emotional behaviour best. In most instances you are your child's best friend.'' HISTORIC HOME -- Two hundred-year-old Tynes Bay House at 37 Palmetto Road, Devonshire is the home of The Child Development Programme.