The HIPPY (Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters, ages 3-5) is a structured, national program for training parents to serve effectively as their children’s first teachers.  With the NCJW (National Council of Jewish Women) Dallas+HIPPY field trips program, youngsters and their parents are introduced to our major local museums. These popular trips combine fun with meaningful learning.  This partnership program has been thriving for seventeen years.

Here are a few photos taken at the Perot Museum of Science and Nature, a popular enrichment destination. This HIPPY group is from the Richardson School District.

Anatomy Exhibit – Learning with Mom

Anatomy – Learning with Mom at Perot Museum

The Dinosaurs

HIPPY groups from  Dallas, Richardson, and Irving School districts currently participate in this program.  Carol Tobias and Syl Benenson are the NCJW Dallas Co-Chairs.

Leaders and HIPPY Families

Johanna Betancourt Supervisor of HIPPY Richardson group, and Carol Tobias NCJW Leader, with HIPPY families at Perot Museum

HIPPY Richardson families enjoying field trip to Perot with NCJW Dallas

NCJW Volunteers for HIPPY Richardson field trip

150 members of HIPPY families attended this event.  The NCJW Dallas-HIPPY field trip program is tightly integrated into the school district run HIPPY programs.  For most of the families, this is their first exposure to such a museum.  Volunteers enjoy participating in these events because the families clearly enjoy and appreciate the activity. Parents take initiative in presenting highlights to their children and sustaining good behavior.

This program is growing and flourishing.  There are many volunteer opportunities.  Join us!!

Click on the school bus below to donate to this project.

Photo-story by Laura G. Diamond_ Writer-Photographer