PARENTS of hyperactive toddlers are being sought by university researchers in Southampton.

The University of Southampton and Solent NHS Trust are looking for families to take part in a clinical trial over the coming year.

The aim is to help parents with children who are showing signs of hyperactive behaviour, behaviour that is often described as pre-school type ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder).

The study, which is the final project in a five-year research initiative, will trial the New Forest Parenting Programme.

The University of Southampton is looking for families with children aged between two years and nine months, and four years and six months, with significant levels of overactive, hyperactive or inattentive behaviour who live in, or can travel to, Southampton or Portsmouth.

Dr Margaret Thompson, clinical lead for the trial and honorary reader in child and adolescent psychiatry at the university, said: “This programme is designed to test which parent intervention is the most beneficial.”

For further information and to take part in a short interview to discuss eligibility, families should contact the COPPI Trial team at the university on 02380 592 358.