The government agency is one of five regional MATs established last year to bring about closer co-operation between agencies working with families and children.

Its first campaign staged at five primary schools in the north of the Island last week, highlighted the benefits of interactive play with children, especially pre-schoolers.

Northern MAT Team Leader Tracy Power said:

‘Attendance at the seminars varied from school to school but we were pleased with the feedback. We demonstrated how parents can encourage young children to play more, especially fun activities that don’t have to cost lots of money.’