DCYF Updates

The African American Child and Family Well-Being Advisory Council is seeking applicants for membership positions. The council advises the Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families on improving outcomes for African American children, youth and families involved in the child welfare system.

We're sure many of you are tracking the news on the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) and the federal government’s actions to freeze Minnesota’s child care payments. We recognize the alarm and questions this has raised. Here's what you need to know.

We recognize the impact that recent federal immigration enforcement efforts, federal actions, and attention on the Child Care Assistance Program is having on Minnesotans. We’re reaching out to share resources that may be helpful to you.

January is Birth Defects Awareness Month, a time to promote healthy pregnancies, highlight ways to reduce the risk of birth defects, and share resources for children living with birth defects and their families.

Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) has created a series of toolkits to help teach about the differences related to cultures and food. 

Choosing the right early learning setting is an important step for families with young children. The Head Start and Public Preschool Referral program is a simple, statewide tool that helps families explore early learning opportunities and begin planning for their child’s education.