Dynamics of (1+1)D spatial solitons in a Kerr medium with a transversely symmetrical refractive index profile is investigated. Propagation of solitons is analysed theoretically by using an effective-particle approach. Analytical results show that the soliton oscillates periodically with a variable acceleration. The expression of oscillatory period is derived by introducing a concept of ’average acceleration’. Both acceleration and oscillatory period are determined by the parameters of the input soliton and the waveguide. Propagations of solitons are simulated numerically and good agreement is obtained between the theoretical and numerical results.