HIPPY kids are eager to learn

Do you live in Launceston or its greater suburbs and care for a child aged between four and five years old? Anglicare Tasmania has some places available in a free home-based school readiness program that empowers parents and guardians to be their child’s first teacher.

“Every home can become a rich learning environment,” says Aparna Banerjee, Program Coordinator of the Home Interaction Program for Parents and Youngsters (HIPPY).

“HIPPY gives parents the confidence, skills and resources to set their children up for success that can last a lifetime,” she said. “Families are provided with activity packs, storybooks and learning resources that are based on the Tasmanian Government’s Early Years framework.

“When a family enrols they are assigned one of our friendly and professional tutors who will work with them every step of the way on this exciting journey,” she said.  HIPPY is designed to fit easily into daily life, with families spending around 10-15 minutes a day doing educational activities together.

“There are also opportunities for families to come together for COVID-safe social get-togethers and outings so there can be huge flow-on benefits for all family members, including grandparents and siblings. HIPPY often organises fun-filled excursions to extend the children’s learning. These help the children to tune into and develop knowledge of their local community,” said Aparna.

Aparna knows the program inside out, experiencing it first-hand 11 years ago as a parent with a four-year-old child. She jumped at the chance to become a tutor before taking on overall responsibility for the program in 2011.

 There are no barriers to joining the HIPPY family—everyone is welcome. Last year Anglicare delivered the program to 22 families where English was their second language and it was so rewarding to see both children and their parents eager to learn and become involved in their local community.

Parents outline the benefits

One parent reported: “My son has some learning difficulties, but he benefited greatly from HIPPY. He has started listening to stories and following simple instructions now, and is learning how to interact with other kids using HIPPY strategies.”

Another parent explained: “My child was so pleased to receive his HIPPY box of goodies today! He has been so excited to start HIPPY and is feeling on top of the world with all his stuff. There’s nothing more rewarding then seeing your child happy and eager to engage in learning! Thankyou HIPPY!!” 

“It’s such a proud moment for families when their child graduates and we make sure it’s celebrated,” Aparna said.

 Would you like to join the HIPPY community?

Enrolments are now open for 2021 and there are still some places available.  If you have very young children, we can put you on the waiting list for future intakes. For further information, contact Aparna at Anglicare Tasmania on 1800 243 232.

Background:

Funded by the Department of Social Services and licensed by Brotherhood of St. Laurence, HIPPY has been delivered by Anglicare since 2009. To date, 298 families have successfully completed the two-year program.

Main pic: Children graduate from HIPPY’s 2020 program with flying colours.