Last week, the Ashmont Home Interaction Program for Parents and Youngsters (HIPPY) community proudly celebrated a milestone—the graduation of 18 families who completed the two-year HIPPY program. The event was filled with joy and pride as families gathered to reflect on their achievements and the journey they’ve shared.
The venue was alive with vibrant blue and orange decorations, and children looked fantastic in their gowns and caps, proudly holding certificates that symbolised their dedication and growth. A highlight of the day was the cutting of the graduation cake—a moment that captured the unity and accomplishment of the group. Parents expressed heartfelt gratitude, sharing comments like:
“Thank you so much for the learning activities and thank you for everything.”
“It was a wonderful journey.”
This celebration was more than an end—it was a reflection of what HIPPY is all about: empowering families to nurture learning and connection at home. One parent’s story illustrates this beautifully. After receiving a link to the indigenous Children’s song Inanay—part of the Age 4 learning pack—she shared how it sparked childhood memories and inspired her to teach the song to all five of her children. What began as a simple activity became a moment of cultural connection and strengthened family bonds. She shared that HIPPY has helped her massively as a single parent, building confidence and deepening relationships with her children.
Stories like this show the heart and purpose of the HIPPY program, which is to help children develop a love of learning early and empower families to engage confidently in their child’s education. The program’s impact extends beyond the individual child, creating ripples of connection and resilience throughout families and communities.
Through the two-year HIPPY program, parents and their children engage in home-based learning that supports parents to be their child’s first teacher. Based at the Ashmont Community Resource Centre, HIPPY equips local families with tools, confidence, and knowledge to foster learning from a young age.
The celebration also marked a farewell to two incredible HIPPY Tutors, Kristy and Nadine, whose passion and commitment have made a lasting impact on families. We thank them for their contribution and wish them every success in the future.
Congratulations to all our graduates! The skills and confidence gained through HIPPY will continue to support families as they nurture their children’s learning and development. Together, we are building brighter futures.
Visit our Ashmont Community Resource Centre to learn more about HIPPY and other family programs.
