Whaanau Services

HIPPY - Home interaction program for parent and youngsters

HIPPY is an intensive home-based program to train maatua (parents) and kaaitiaki (caregivers) of four and five-year-olds. To help them create positive learning experiences that will set children up for success in school and later on in life. It’s a hands-on 2-year program with educators visiting whaanau in their homes every fortnight and whaanau attending 2-hour group sessions on location every other fortnight. A highly anticipated graduation for children and parents is held every year after they complete their training. Home interaction Programme for Parents and Youngsters is a home-based early education programme working in 40 communities around New Zealand. How it works: The 60 week curriculum, worked over two years, is made up of workbooks with activities that develop both the cognitive and non-cognitive skills that are essential for children to become competent learners. The activities are linked to Te Whariki, the ministry of Education’s early childhood curriculum, enabling children to transition successfully into school. HIPPY gives you storybooks and resources which helps to develop a life-long love of learning. Hippy children arrive at school ready to learn and settle quickly into the learning environment. Children experience increased self-esteem and confidence in learning. Parents gain opportunities to enjoy positive time with their children and create a learning environment at home. Parents develop improved communication with their children meet with other parents and gain a sense of inclusion and connections with their community.