What is HIPPY?

Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY) is a kindergarten readiness program for families with children 2 through 5.

HIPPY is built on the belief that parents are a child’s first and most important teachers, and that learning begins at home.

Through HIPPY, trained home visitors—often parents from your own community—come alongside you to support your family’s journey. They meet with you each week in your home, virtually, or in a community location that works best for you. During these visits, they provide curriculum, materials, and guidance to help you support your child’s growth and learning.

Together, you’ll explore a thoughtfully designed curriculum that uses everyday moments as opportunities for learning. Home visitors will model and practice fun, play-based activities with you that you can continue at home with your child. These activities help build your child’s confidence and strengthen their cognitive, early literacy, social-emotional, and physical development.

Children also receive assessments along the way to help track their progress and celebrate their growth toward school readiness.

Click here to find a HIPPY site near you.

 

Visits can take place in your home, virtually, or in a community space that feels comfortable and convenient for you.

HIPPY includes weekly visits, with each session lasting approximately 60 minutes. These consistent visits help build strong relationships and support ongoing learning.

 

Who is it for?
 HIPPY is for preschool-aged children (ages 2, 3, 4, and 5) and their parents or caregivers who want to support their child’s early learning and development.
What does it cost?
 HIPPY is offered at no cost to parents, foster and kinship caregivers, grandparents, and anyone caring for a child in their custody.
How often do we meet?
 Weekly.  Each visit is approximately 60 minutes.
Where do I go for visits?
 Services are provided in your home, virtually, or in a community location convenient to you.
What do parent educators help with?

Your home visitor walks alongside you as a guide and partner. Together, you’ll explore activities from a structured curriculum designed to support your child’s readiness for school.

Your home visitor will model and practice activities with you that you can use in your everyday routines. These activities help strengthen your child’s:

  • Cognitive skills
  • Early literacy skills
  • Social-emotional development
  • Physical development

Each activity is designed to be engaging, meaningful, and fun!
What should I expect?
  • 30 weekly lessons designed to support your child’s early learning and school readiness
  • Free curriculum and supplies, including children’s books, crayons, scissors, and learning materials
  • Story-based activities that help build early literacy and a lifelong love of learning
  • Opportunities to connect with other parents through monthly group meetings and community activities such as story times, field trips, and family picnics
How can I learn more?
 If you’re interested in more information related to your child’s development and would like to prepare your child for success in school – click HERE to find a program in your area.

 

Read what HIPPY parents say about the program