Around the Grounds July

Your HIPPY story began in quite an unexpected way. Can you tell us about that moment, and how it set you on this path?

In April 2021, I met a lady in the park who told me about the HIPPY program for my daughter. I was new to the area and didn’t know about any local services. Enrolling my daughter turned out to be a life-changing step, not just for her, but for me as well.

Through HIPPY, I found a sense of belonging, made friends, and eventually discovered the opportunity to become a tutor.

That first home visit as a tutor was nerve-wracking, but with each day, my confidence grew, thanks to the support of my team and Coordinator, Emeline Kite.

After two years as a tutor, I stepped into the Coordinator role, and now, in my second year, I feel so proud to be part of a program that empowers families and creates opportunities for growth.

You describe the HIPPY office as your “second home.”
Tell me a bit more about what a typical week looks like for you, and what makes this work so meaningful?

Honestly, I think I spend more time at the HIPPY office than at home, mainly because there are fewer distractions and no dishes waiting for me!

My week starts with book training, which I love because it’s a time for the team to come together, share ideas, and support each other. From there, we plan parent gatherings and home visits, always making sure to include everyone’s feedback. My main role is to support both tutors and families, whether it’s through planning, communication, or just being there when someone needs help. I also look for ways to grow as a leader and help my team develop alongside me.

Creating a positive, connected environment is what I strive for every day.

When work looks like this! it not surprising that it feels a lot like a second home.

Has there been a family or Tutor whose story has stayed with you?

There’s one family I’ll never forget. A little boy with a language delay whose parents were very worried. We adapted the program to meet his needs, and his mum was incredibly dedicated. After a year, his confidence soared and he was ready for mainstream school. Seeing that transformation was such a proud moment for all of us.

It’s moments like these that remind me why this work matters.

The 2024 Graduation had a range of activities to capture children’s voices around what makes them feel happy and safe.
It was a beautiful celebration of their thoughts, feelings, and creativity.

And that comes from the trust you’ve built with families, especially from diverse backgrounds, which is so important. How do you approach this?

It all starts with genuine care, respect, and consistency. I take time to listen to each family’s story, understand their culture and needs, and make sure they feel seen and supported. Our parent gatherings are a big part of this, parents and children feel welcomed, comfortable, and like they belong.

Their eagerness to return shows we’ve created a safe, joyful space where relationships naturally grow.

How do you identify strengths and opportunities within your site, and your team?

I stay connected with both the team and families, always reflecting on what’s working well...like positive feedback, or strong engagement. I encourage open conversations during supervisions and meetings, and I value the insights tutors share since they’re on the front line.

When challenges arise, I see them as chances to learn and adapt, always with the goal of providing the best support possible.

What’s your vision for your HIPPY site this year?

This year, I’m excited to connect our culturally diverse families with First Nations culture in a meaningful way. Coming from a different background myself, I learned so much about Aboriginal culture through HIPPY, and I want to offer our families that same opportunity.

By weaving cultural learning into our sessions, I hope to foster deeper understanding and respect across our community.

What brings you most joy in our role as a HIPPY Coordinator?

Watching both tutors and families grow in confidence is incredibly rewarding.

Seeing a mum become proud of how she supports her child, or a tutor building strong connections with families, reminds me why I do what I do. We’re not just delivering a program!

We’re building relationships and helping people believe in themselves.

That’s what fills my heart and keeps me motivated.