Safe-Space for an Early Learning Foundation (SELF)
Women typically stay in second-stage transitional housing for one to two years, a period marked by uncertainty and challenges for both mothers and their children. During this time, mothers often lack the time, resources, or confidence to engage their preschool-aged children in early learning, which is crucial during these formative years.
The Safe-Space for an Early Learning Foundation (SELF) Project is an adaptation of the Home Instructions for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY) Program. SELF supports mothers and their children living in second-stage transitional housing by providing consistent, high-quality early learning activities.
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Flexible and Inclusive Programming
Our partners will engage mothers using an inclusive and flexible early learning model. Mothers will spend 15 minutes a day with their children, five days a week, working on high-quality structured early learning activities. This will prepare children to do well at school and in life. It will also strengthen the mother-child bond, vital to the child's development and wellbeing in the early years. Mothers and children can also build community by connecting with other families living in similar circumstances.
Program Outcomes
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Improved capacity at four second-stage transitional shelters to deliver high-quality early-learning services.
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120-160 mothers gain confidence and the capacity to engage their children through high-quality early learning activities in the safety of their space.
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120-160 children experience a stronger attachment to their mothers and are well-prepared for school and life.
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A model to provide accessible and flexible high-quality early learning opportunities to children living in transitional shelters with their mothers is documented and disseminated for scale-up.
Participants Receive
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FREE holistic programming
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Weekly home visits
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Monthly group meetings for mothers (with childcare provided)
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Bi-weekly play-groups
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Quarterly field visits
