Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families

09/07/2026

This Labor Day, we celebrate and honor the workers across Minnesota whose dedication strengthens our communities and supports the wellbeing of children, youth, and families.

At DCYF, our mission is to ensure every young person has the opportunities, resources and support they need to thrive. This work is only possible because of our committed staff, partners, caregivers and community members who show up each day with compassion and purpose.

Today, we recognize your contribution to building a brighter, more equitable future for Minnesota’s kids and families. Thank you for all that you do. Happy Labor Day!

Please note that DCYF Offices will be closed today, and will reopen tomorrow, September 8.

09/06/2026

Minnesota’s child support program serves more than 189,000 children.

If you receive or pay child support, support a family that does, or want Minnesota’s child support system to work well for families, we want to hear from you.

Minnesota is reviewing the guidelines used to help determine child support amounts. Your experience and perspective can help ensure they are fair, consistent, and responsive to families’ needs.

Share your input by Sept. 15: https://minnesotadcyf.us.engagementhq.com/child-support-guidelines-review/surveys/guidelines_feedback

08/31/2026

Minnesota’s young people deserve the knowledge and support to make informed decisions about relationships, parenthood, and the futures they want.

Through Paths to Parenthood, schools, community organizations, correctional facilities, and other youth-serving partners are creating space for honest conversations about the financial, legal, emotional, and personal responsibilities of becoming a parent.

If your organization serves young people, learn how you can help bring these important conversations to youth in your Minnesota community: https://dcyf.mn.gov/news/helping-young-people-plan-future-paths-parenthood

08/27/2026

“I was surprised how much my kids have actually learned from me and putting it (that learning) into practice..." Parent Focus Group participant.

Stories like this show how powerful early screening or check-ins can be and highlight how much caregivers are teaching kids every day.

To learn more about Early Childhood Screenings visit: https://dcyf.mn.gov/early-childhood-screening

08/26/2026

Last chance! The eligibility period for 2026 SUN Bucks benefits ends on Aug. 31st! Take the SUN Bucks eligibility quiz to see if your child is eligible. If your child is income-eligible and not already enrolled, be sure to complete and submit the Application for Educational Benefits to your child’s school by Aug. 31, 2026 to be considered for 2026 SUN Bucks benefits.

Already got SUN Bucks benefits? Remember these expire 122 days – about 4 months – after the benefits are put into the account. Check your Edge account for the exact expiration date.

Have a question about SUN Bucks? Visit https://dcyf.mn.gov/sun-bucks more information.

Breadcrumb Home SUN Bucks Title View all programs SUN Bucks Intro SUN Bucks is an income-based food support program that provides families with $120 per eligible school-aged child to buy groceries when school is out for the summer. Most eligible children are automatically enrolled. When children no....

08/25/2026

Parent-Check-in: Where is your child on their development journey?

Help Me Grow MN is one way that children can get connected to early intervention and preschool special education supports and services. The website offers interactive milestone checklists and tips for caregivers of children from birth to age 5.

Click through the linked page below to see the types of things children are learning who are the same age as your child and how you can support them!! https://ow.ly/6pQG50ZEZpa

08/24/2026

What does “growing together” look like across Minnesota?

🤝🏽It looks like counties and Tribal Nations helping families receive benefits more quickly.

🧩Child care providers helping improve new systems before they expand statewide.

🗣️Community members helping decide how funding can strengthen families and keep children connected to their communities and cultures.

📰The August edition of Growing Together shares these stories and more from across DCYF.

Read the latest edition and sign up to receive future editions: https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/MNDCYF/bulletins/4260e1a

08/21/2026

“It’s all about relationships. From the moment we walk in the door and say hello, I will be here to help today, and here every day after to make it better. We offer hope.” – Priscilla Weigel, Executive Director

Yesterday we had the honor of joining the Center for Inclusive Child Care in their 30th anniversary celebration.

The room was packed with child care coaches, program directors and professionals dedicated to improving the lives of children and families, and the child care providers who support them. For 30 years the Center for Inclusive Child Care has been offering hope to early educators and families.

The coaching and support they provide ensures that every child, no matter their ability or behavior, can thrive. DCYF is proud to have been a partner of CICC for all 30 years.

08/21/2026

Child support helps Minnesota children get the resources they need to grow and thrive.

In federal fiscal year 2025, Minnesota’s child support program:

Served more than 189,000 children.
Collected and distributed more than $500 million in child support.
Collected $2.42 for Minnesota’s children for every $1 spent administering the program.

During Child Support Awareness Month, we recognize the parents and caregivers who support their children, along with the dedicated county and Tribal child support professionals who help families access consistent financial support.

Together, their efforts help create greater stability for children and families across Minnesota.

Learn more about Minnesota’s child support program and find services and resources: https://dcyf.mn.gov/individuals-and-families/family-services/child-support