Step Up Suncoast
6428 Parkland Drive
Sarasota, Florida 34243

Phone: 941-827-2887
Extension: 7740
Toll Free Phone:
Fax:
TDD Phone:

Website: www.stepupsuncoast.org/hippy

Program Description

The Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY) program is a free, voluntary, home-based program designed to help parents prepare their children, ages 2-5, for success in school. Through this program, parents receive a carefully developed curriculum, and materials aimed at strengthening their childs cognitive, early literacy, social-emotional, and physical development skills. HIPPY empowers parents to become their childs first teacher by providing them with the tools and confidence they need to work with their children at home. This program is available to families residing in Manatee, Hardee, and DeSoto counties.

Services Available Through This Program

Child Developmental Milestones/School Readiness , Involving Parents in Early Literacy , Parent Education/Advocacy

Hours of Operation


None. Hours of instruction are flexible.

Eligibility Requirements and Important Information

HIPPY serves children ages 25. To be eligible, households incomes generally need to fall at or below 200% of the federal poverty level income guideline. The program is voluntary, and parents are expected to participate regularly, complete weekly activities with their children, and maintain communication with their Home Visitor. Visits typically last 4560 minutes, with five educational activities provided each week. HIPPY serves children ages 25. To be eligible, households incomes generally need to fall at or below 200% of the federal poverty level income guideline. HIPPY is voluntary, and parents are expected to participate regularly, complete weekly activities with their children, and maintain communication with their Home Visitor. Visits typically last 4560 minutes, with five educational activities provided each week.

Availability and Fees

Current Wait List:	NO
Handicapped Access:	NO
Accepts Medicaid:	NO
Accepts Private Insurance:	NO
Financial Assistance Available?:	NO
Sliding Scale:	NO

Other Fee Information

None

Points of Interest

- Parents who want to become more involved in their children's education and development. - Parent support and empowerment as their child's first teacher. - School readiness, child development, and important early learning skills. - Home-based services that can be held virtually when appropriate. - Structured curriculum with approximately 30 weeks of educational activities each program year. - Curriculum offered for English and Spanish speakers.