Washburn Center for Children

02/24/2026

Reducing stress starts with giving ourselves and our kids a little more compassion. When big feelings show up—yours or theirs—try pausing to name the feeling, take a breath, and respond with kindness instead of criticism. Self-compassion in caregivers is linked to lower stress and better emotional well-being, which supports healthier relationships and mental health for children, too.​

"Stress isn't a siren call to 'suck it up,' or an invitation to embrace perfectionism," says psychologist Juli Fraga. Try doing these five things instead.

02/19/2026

Our community is hurting.
Because of the incursion of federal agents in Minnesota, families are carrying heavy layers of fear and trauma—and children are among those most deeply affected. These experiences ripple into every part of our community, from classrooms to workplaces.
Children’s mental health isn’t just a family issue—it’s a community and workplace issue.
Washburn Center invites you to act: join an upcoming Mental Health First Aid training and learn how to provide compassionate, informed support to those in need.
💙 Together, we can build a stronger, more trauma-aware Minnesota.
• Tuesday February 24 8:30 a.m. -4:30 p.m. youth curriculum
• Friday March 20 8:30 a.m. -4:30 p.m. youth curriculum
• Tuesday March 24 9 a.m. -5 p.m. adult-specific curriculum
• Thursday April 2 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. youth curriculum
• Wednesday April 22 9 a.m. -5 p.m. adult-specific curriculum

🔗Register today! https://washburn.org/2026-mental-health-first-aid/

02/16/2026

Is your child kindergarten ready? https://www.startribune.com/is-your-child-kindergarten-ready/601579420

Kindergarten checklists are everywhere—but they don’t always tell you what’s really going on beneath the surface. Our developmental screening goes beyond basic readiness assessments to give you clear, research-informed insights you can feel confident in. Washburn Center psychologists are here to help you discover what’s best for your child and your family. Learn more: washburn.org/testing

02/05/2026

Knowing how to talk with kids at different ages is one of the heavier asks of caregivers right now. Here are some helpful insights.

Experts explain why hard conversations can be reassuring, suggest age-appropriate information to share.

02/05/2026

NEW dates for 2026: FREE training and certification in Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) at youth and adult levels! This training gives you the tools to take action when people need you most. Learn more and sign up today:

Get Trained in Mental Health First Aid Be ready to help with the hurt. Return to Training Institute People count on you to be ready.Washburn Center’s Mental Health First Aid Training is one of the few to offer the latest training to strengthen community protective factors, offer early intervention...

02/02/2026

In honor of Black History Month, join us in celebrating and reflecting on the past, present, and future of Black history—both here in Minnesota and across the nation. Here is one resource: https://www.history.com/topics/black-history --

Through the month and beyond, we will continue to lift up those who have contributed to more culturally responsive mental health and wellness for children in our communities.

Black History Month is a time to acknowledge the profound contributions, resilience, leadership, and creativity of African Americans, while also honoring the ongoing work of shaping a just and thriving future. At Washburn, we recognize that this history is deeply connected to the work we do.

Black history is the story of African Americans in the United States and elsewhere. Learn about Black History Month, ...

01/28/2026

Our staff is here to support you.

We understand how frightening and overwhelming daily life has become with the increased and unpredictable presence of Department of Homeland Security (DHS) agents. You are not alone. Your safety—and the safety of your children—is our highest priority.

Read more:

Our staff is here to support you. We understand how frightening and overwhelming daily life has become with the increased and unpredictable presence of Department of Homeland Security (DHS) agents. You are not alone. Your safety—and the safety of your children—is our highest priority. Washburn C...

01/06/2026

As we step into the new year, remember: caring for your child starts with caring for yourself. Taking even 10 minutes to rest, move your body, or do something you enjoy can build resilience and model healthy coping for your kids. You are not selfish for needing a break; you are human, and your well-being matters for the whole family’s mental health.
https://youtu.be/pqrrGeyvrYA

12/30/2025

Washburn Center is a place of healing, resilience, and transformation. Every gift helps us reach more children and support more families. Would you please consider making a donation as we close out 2025? Help us head into 2026 ready to meet critical emerging needs.

This is the moment to show you care. www.washburn.org/donate

https://youtu.be/uhSHlVow_8s?si=0lWAKd9_N7cUVZnw

12/25/2025

All locations of Washburn Center for Children and all therapeutic classrooms are closed on Thursday, December 25 and 26 so our staff can spend time with family and recharging. We will resume all services on Monday, December 29.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call 988, the su***de and crisis lifeline. If you or a loved one is in immediate physical danger, call 911.

12/19/2025

12/17/2025

Across Minnesota and our nation, more families than ever are seeking mental health support for their children. Rising depression, school-related stress, and community trauma continue to affect development in profound ways.

Because you care, there is hope. Washburn Center’s programs grow and adapt alongside the needs of kids and families — ensuring they aren’t left to navigate these challenges alone. Help us continue that impact at washburn.org/donate