HIPPY to help young kids and mums
A programme that will have a major impact on young children is relaunching in Kaikohe.
Teraki Beattie, Dawn Shaw and Jessie Smith have signed up to roll out an interactive HIPPY programme from August 1 that helps parents and children aged from three to six.
HIPPY stands for Home Interaction for Parents and Youngsters.
It was introduced to New Zealand by the Great Potentials Foundation.
The three mothers will visit mums and their children at home for an hour a fortnight where they will role play and introduce activities.
Parents and children also work together at home for 15 minutes a day throughout the 30 week programme.
A series of work books guides users through activities that can include learning about sounds, writing and other skills that prepare children for school life.
The Kaikohe programme is facilitated by Te Hau Ora O Ngapuhi who will employ the mothers in a part time capacity.
Shaw says the initiative gives her an open mind about returning to the workforce.
‘‘This can help us see ourselves as more than just a stay at home mother and break the cycle and mindset that this is all we are.
‘‘It is my heart’s desire to work with young mothers and young children and HIPPY allows me to do that.’’
Coordinator Te Aroha TiatoaSionemale says the programme gives preschool children an ‘‘educational boost’’.
Tutor mums also gain valuable skills in coaching, mentoring and administration that can prepare them for future employment opportunities, she says.
‘‘We are taking control of our children’s education.
‘‘Kaikohe needs all resources we can put into it.
‘‘Imagine these kids in the future, we are giving them a head the start.’’
The HIPPY programme takes two years to complete.
A graduation ceremony is held at its conclusion.
There are 44 providers throughout New Zealand with seven in Northland Wellsford to Kaitaia.
$1 a week allows you to be a part of HIPPY.
*For more information contact Te Aroha TiatoaSionemale 022 657 8903. from