THE mother of a two-year-old boy, who suffers from a chronic learning disability, has formed a new play group for children with similar problems.

Now, Mandy Standring-Lee, of Alder Close, in Moss Side, Leyland, is calling on parents of children with special needs to come forward and join her mums and tots group.

Since he was born, Mandy's son Kaylan has suffered from a variety of medical problems. At just four-weeks-old the toddler was rushed to Alder Hey Children's Hospital, in Liverpool, where he underwent open heart surgery to correct a hole in the heart.

Although he made a good recovery, Kaylan was diagnosed with GI George syndrome, a delayed learning problem related to his earlier medical condition.

Now, the little boy suffers from speech and motor difficulties and has behavioural and other problems.

Mandy said: "It's a very unpredictable syndrome. Kaylan can be a very demanding compared to other two-year-olds and is quite difficult sometimes. "Due to his condition he is very aggressive and throws things at people. He swipes the table and tosses everything to the floor. But he's a very loveable, happy little boy, who loves being around other children.

"That was the motive behind setting up the group. I wanted somewhere where he and I could go and relax among people who would understand.

"Some people don't like disruptive children and I found I was having to explain his condition and constantly make apologies for his behaviour.

"But, in our group, all the children have difficulties and are allowed to behave in a way that's normal for them.

"We don't mind if a few toys get thrown on the floor.

"It's also a good place for the mums to meet other parents of children with similar difficulties who can offer help and support."

The mother and toddler group meets at the Methodist Church, in Canberra Road, Leyland, on Mondays, from 10am-11.30am.