Across Minnesota, early childhood educators are finding new ways to help children build emotional resilience, develop empathy, and thrive. Thanks to a gift from the Sauer Family Foundation to West Central Initiative, more educators and families now have access to transformational Conscious Discipline training—an evidence-based, trauma-informed approach that equips adults to manage their own emotions while helping children do the same. 

Developed by renowned child-development expert Dr. Becky Bailey, the program strengthens relationships between caregivers and children by fostering healthier, more connected interactions. 

“We’re proud to partner with West Central Initiative and support a Minnesota cohort of Conscious Discipline trainers,” said Pat Sauer, President and Co-Founder of the Sauer Family Foundation. 

With this funding, 50 educators and leaders from across Minnesota are completing a yearlong training to become endorsed Conscious Discipline facilitators. The program began with a two-day, in-person session in July 2025 and continues with ongoing coaching, reflective practice, and advanced training throughout the year. These facilitators will then share their expertise with Head Start programs, school districts, and child care providers—expanding access to Conscious Discipline, especially in rural communities. 

Conscious Discipline focuses on creating safe, connected, and supportive environments for both children and adults. At its core, the program helps caregivers and educators recognize their own emotional states, manage stress and guide children through calming techniques and problem-solving strategies. 

“Conscious Discipline gives adults the tools to understand themselves first—what triggers them, what challenges them—so they can better support children,” said Marsha Erickson, West Central Initiative Early Childhood Specialist. “When educators and caregivers can manage their own emotions, they help children learn to self-regulate, develop empathy, and thrive.” 

By teaching adults how to “download their calm” and co-regulate with children, the program builds skills that support brain development, emotional awareness, and stronger relationships. 

The Sauer Family Foundation has long been committed to improving the lives of children and families. When community members and early childhood leaders began calling for expanded access to Conscious Discipline, the foundation stepped in to make it possible. 

“Children and caregivers around the state have benefited from this evidence-based, trauma-informed approach,” said Colleen O’Keefe, Executive Director of the Sauer Family Foundation. “Supporting professional development across Minnesota is a great way to embed Conscious Discipline at the system level.” 

The impact of Conscious Discipline is already being felt across Minnesota. Educators report better relationships with children and higher job satisfaction, which supports staff retention during a time of significant workforce challenges. Families share stories of children using calming techniques at home, helping parents and siblings manage stress together. 

“Conscious Discipline has truly been life-changing for us,” said Lacey Hoppe, Director of the Minnesota State University Moorhead Early Education Center and endorsed facilitator. “We were doing all the techniques before, but now we do them with confidence, supporting each other and growing together. Becoming an endorsed facilitator has helped me live and breathe Conscious Discipline every day, showing our staff, families, and kids the benefits as I continue to strengthen myself as a leader.” 

The program is also reaching culturally diverse communities in meaningful ways. In some cultures, conversations around mental health can be difficult. Conscious Discipline provides tools that focus on breathing, emotional awareness, and empathy without using stigmatizing language, making it accessible and inclusive for families from many backgrounds. 

Thanks to the Sauer Family Foundation’s support, West Central Initiative and statewide partners are helping build a stronger early childhood workforce and providing children with the tools they need to succeed in school and in life. 

For more information about West Central Initiative’s Early Childhood Initiative, visit www.wcif.org.

About West Central Initiative 

West Central Initiative is a place-based nonprofit, community foundation, and regional development organization dedicated to fostering a thriving, inclusive, and sustainable future for White Earth Nation and Becker, Clay, Douglas, Grant, Otter Tail, Pope, Stevens, Traverse, and Wilkin Counties. 

Since its founding in 1986, West Central Initiative has provided funding, technical assistance, planning resources, and philanthropic services to strengthen the economic and social fabric of the region. 

The organization has provided more than $62 million in loans and approximately $93 million in grants to businesses and organizations. Learn more at wcif.org.