HIPPY Diplomas for Preschool Children: A New Step in Education!
On June 20, 2025, preschool children received their HIPPY diplomas in the AWO Grete Hofmann Hall, a milestone in early childhood education.

HIPPY Diplomas for Preschool Children: A New Step in Education!
The ceremonial handover of the HIPPY diplomas and medals took place on June 20, 2025 in the Grete Hofmann Hall of the AWO Region Hannover in Linden-Süd. On this special day, the children who will start school in summer 2025 received their well-deserved awards and small gifts. The event brought together numerous families and the HIPPY team, who were able to enjoy a buffet with food they had brought with them following the ceremony. These gatherings not only promote exchange, but also community among the participants.
A total of 48 families took part in HIPPY, the “Home Interaction for Parents and Preschool Youngsters” program, in the 2024/2025 program year. It enables families with children aged 4 to 6 to support their little ones in preparing for school. This year, 28 children completed the first year and 20 children completed the second year of the HIPPY program. Point Linden reports on the positive experiences of the participants. Talya, a five-year-old participant, expressed excitement about the program, particularly in learning letters and crafts.
Importance of the HIPPY program
Nurcan Kuru, the coordinator of the HIPPY program, emphasizes the importance of the diplomas not only for the children but also for their parents. HIPPY aims to integrate education into the everyday lives of families and to strengthen the role of parents as their children's first educational companions. Regular home visits from trained HIPPY home visitors enable parents to receive learning and play materials and to learn how to implement them in everyday life. Parents and children devote around 20 minutes to the HIPPY material every day.
In addition to home visits, regular group meetings take place. There, parents receive valuable information on educational topics and have the opportunity to try out the HIPPY material together. Antje Frenz, a home visitor, highlights the importance of these shared activities between mothers and children.
Financing and outlook
The HIPPY program has been offered by the AWO Region Hannover for 18 years, but places are limited and demand is high. Beate Kopmann, the head of AWO Family Education, points out the financial restrictions that are currently making it difficult to expand the program. Financial support comes from the state capital of Hanover, while in Hemmingen the city of Hemmingen and the German Postcode Lottery contribute.
After the summer holidays, a new round of the HIPPY program starts. Interested families who would like to register can do so by calling 0511 21978-172. The offer is aimed at parents with preschool children and is offered in several districts of Hanover as well as in Hemmingen. AWO Hanover informs you about further details and options for participation.