HIPPY
You Are Your Child's First and Most Important Teacher
The HIPPY program (Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters) is designed to give you the tools and confidence to help your child learn and grow. Bergen Family Center was the first HIPPY program in the state of New Jersey.
A Legacy of Learning
750+
Graduated Families Since Inception in 1994
Starting with just 20 families, HIPPY has grown into a cornerstone program at Bergen Family Center. Our commitment to building foundational skills and fostering a lifelong love for learning has created a thriving network of empowered, educated, and connected families within our community.
Our dedicated team at BFC delivered 780 engaging lessons, sparking a love of learning in young minds while empowering parents with the tools to support their child's development.
How HIPPY Works
HIPPY programs around the world follow the same structured approach to early childhood learning. The program is built on four key components:
- 1️⃣ Curriculum – A developmentally appropriate learning plan for children ages 2-5.
- 2️⃣ Role Play – A hands-on teaching method that helps parents practice activities before working with their child.
- 3️⃣ Coordinators & Home Visitors – Trained community members who support parents through weekly home visits.
- 4️⃣ Home Visits & Group Meetings – A mix of one-on-one guidance at home and group sessions for parents to connect and learn together.
The HIPPY model was created to make learning accessible for all families, especially those who may face challenges like limited education, financial hardship, or social isolation. While HIPPY is open to any parent who wants to enrich their child's education, it was specifically designed to remove barriers that might otherwise prevent parents from being involved in their child's learning journey.
BFC Featured by HIPPY International
Bergen Family Center was proudly featured by HIPPY International, highlighting our commitment to empowering parents as their children's first teachers. Watch the story below.
Why Role Play?
One of HIPPY's unique features is role playing—a fun and effective way to practice teaching your child before doing the activities together.
Preparation First
Home visitors and program coordinators role play each week to prepare.
Practice Together
Parents practice with their home visitor before teaching their child.
Natural Learning
Mistakes are okay! Role playing makes learning feel natural and stress-free.
This method helps parents understand how children learn and gain new teaching skills—even if reading isn't their strong suit.
What Your Child Will Learn
Reading & Language
Storytelling, letter recognition, and conversations
Math & Science
Shapes, numbers, patterns, and problem-solving
Motor Skills
Writing, cutting, and hands-on activities
Social & Emotional Growth
Understanding feelings, cooperation, and independence
Home Visits & Group Meetings
Home Visits
Your home visitor comes to you weekly, bringing everything you need to work with your child. They guide you through the activities and help you understand how young children learn.
- Weekly one-on-one guidance
- All materials provided
Group Meetings
Parents meet once a month to share experiences, learn from each other, and build community.
- Monthly community gatherings
- Share experiences and tips
Both home visits and group meetings help parents feel supported, confident, and connected while preparing their children for success.
780
Educational Lessons Delivered
691
Home Visits Made
80
Active Families
82
Children Benefiting
For Information About HIPPY at BFC
Rachele Ventrone, MA Director of Home Visiting
A Community of Support
HIPPY is more than just a program—it's a network of parents, home visitors, and coordinators working together to help young children thrive.
Find Out More from HIPPY United StatesNational Council of Jewish Women Bergen County Section helped start the HIPPY program in 1994 and continues to fund us today 30 years later.