Language access at DCYF helps families get the support children need to thrive

Imagine receiving information about a service your family depends on and not being able to understand it.

Whether it is child care assistance, child support services, economic support or another resource, understanding available information is the first step toward taking action. When language creates a barrier, families face greater challenges accessing services, participating in programs and making informed decisions for their children. Those barriers can affect how families navigate systems, understand requirements and connect with supports that contribute to the safety, stability and well-being of children and youth.

That is why DCYF is strengthening language access.

Collectively, Minnesotans speak more than 300 languages. Approximately one in five Minnesota students speaks a language other than English at home, and in more than half of Minnesota’s counties, at least 5% of public school students do as well.

For DCYF, those numbers represent children, youth and families seeking information, services and support. 
Connecting families to services and support

Through the Equal Opportunity and Access Division, DCYF is strengthening language access to help reduce those barriers and improve access to information and services.

The division works with programs and teams throughout DCYF to identify language needs, improve access to translated and interpreted information and develop tools, guidance and processes that support language access in a consistent and sustainable way.

“Families shouldn't have to struggle to understand information about services that affect their children and families," said DCY Commissioner Tikki Brown. "Language access helps remove barriers so people can get the support they need and make informed decisions about what's right for their family."

Meeting communities where they are

Effective communication looks different across Minnesota's communities.

While translated documents are an important part of language access, meaningful communication can take many forms. Depending on the community and situation, that may include translated materials, interpretation services, audio resources or partnerships with trusted community organizations.

The goal is not simply to translate information from one language to another. It ensures that communication is accessible, useful and responsive to the communities DCYF serves.

Helping families navigate services together

Language access is about making sure families can participate fully in the programs and services that affect their lives. When families are unable to access information in a language they understand, opportunities for support, services and engagement can be more difficult to access.

When parents, caregivers and family members can understand information and access support, they are better equipped to make decisions, advocate for their children and connect with resources that help their families thrive. "A whole family approach recognizes that children thrive when the adults in their lives can access the information, services and support they need," said Brown. "Language access helps remove barriers, strengthen trust and create more equitable opportunities for families across Minnesota."

By strengthening language access, DCYF is helping create stronger connections between families and the services available to them while supporting better outcomes for children, youth and families.

Looking ahead

Language access will remain an important part of how DCYF serves children, youth and families. Supporting meaningful access to information and services is a shared responsibility across the agency. Through ongoing partnerships, resources and the development of new tools and guidance, the Equal Opportunity and Access Division is helping programs better serve Minnesota's diverse communities.