Early days much promise: an evaluation of the Home Instruction Program for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY) in Australia

This paper reports the evaluation of a program designed to improve children’s educational attainment and self-esteem in the early years of school, by equipping and supporting parents to undertake lessons with their four and five-year-old children at home.

It describes the program’s implementation in the multicultural environment of inner suburban Melbourne, the views of participating staff and parents and the outcomes for children. Lessons for future programs are also identified.