HIPPY is the acronym for Home Instruction for Parents of Pre-school Youngsters. It is a home-based programme that helps parents lay the foundation for success in their children's school and later life. The programme was specifically designed to support those parents who do not feel sufficiently confident to prepare their children for a positive school experience. HIPPY is changing the lives of thousands of families "at risk" in nine countries across the globe. In every country where HIPPY is used the target group is the same, that is economically, socially and educationally disadvantaged families who need help in their parenting roles. 

The first HIPPY programme started in 1988 in Bosmont, Johannesburg. This was soon followed by other sites in Gauteng and the Free State. Currently there are 10 HIPPY sites, serving some 750 families, in Gauteng and the Eastern Cape. HIPPY believes that the early formation of strong parent/child bonds coupled with quality early education is the key to academic and social success. It is not enough to just teach parents about child development or school readiness skills; the surest way for parents to become actively involved in the education and development of their children is for them to participate in regular activity with their young children.

Often, as a result of their increased skills, confidence and self esteem, parents are also motivated to read for pleasure and improve their own literacy. The future of HIPPY in South Africa There is a growing need for early education programmes that promote family participation. Research shows that children who bond well with their parents at an early age are less likely to become high school drop outs and therefore become productive members of society. HIPPY is playing a vital role in South Africa where the high school drop out rate is said to be as high as 60%.