Learning to ride a bike as an adult takes more than access to two wheels. Stepping outside your comfort zone to learn a new skill requires both motivation, confidence and the right support.
For Shayan, a young mum in Ashmont, the motivation was her child, and the support came through her connection to an Anglicare parenting program. Determined to learn to ride by the time her son was ready to give it a go, Shayan embraced the challenge and ultimately became a powerful example for him of what practice and perseverance can achieve.
HIPPY (Home Interaction Program for Parents and Youngsters) is a nationally recognised early childhood program. The Ashmont-based program is run by Anglicare and helps parents build confidence, connect with their community, and actively support their child’s early learning.
A key focus of HIPPY is encouraging parents to engage with their children in play-based learning. For Shayan, this meant not only supporting her child’s development, but also participating in activities where they could grow together, like riding a bike.
With support from the HIPPY team, Shayan was connected to local community partners who helped get started. The Bike Canteen provided her with a restored bike, while a volunteer from Cycling Without Age Wagga Wagga offered to teach her.
Weekend practice sessions followed. At first, balancing was a challenge, but with encouragement and persistence, Shayan’s confidence grew each week. Before long, she was riding alongside her children around the neighbourhood.
Shayan is deeply grateful for the support she received and the new opportunities it has created to connect with her children in an active, meaningful way.
Her story highlights the power of community programs to create positive change. HIPPY goes beyond early childhood learning. By linking families with local services and supporting personal goals, the program helps remove barriers, build skills, and strengthen community connections.
Learn more about HIPPY and our other youth programs on our Youth + Family Services page.
