Talking with Children about Race and Social Identity During Complex and Changing Times (June 05, 2026)

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Join us for a timely presentation by Katherine Lingras, Ph.D. (bio below). This talk will review the science behind talking with children about race and social identity, with the applied context of the complexities of our current times. Emphasis will be placed in the rationale for having such discussions in the clinical context, as well as in social/personal contexts, with young children. Myths and facts about children's understanding of race/identity and racism/discrimination will be reviewed. Finally, guidelines and preliminary tools for facilitating conversations about race, identity, and cultural characteristics will be discussed. Time will be allotted at the end for Q&A and discussion with participants.

Dr. Katherine (Katie) Lingras (she/her) is an Associate Professor and Child Psychologist at the University of Minnesota in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. Dr. Lingras specializes in early childhood mental health, and directs the Early Childhood Mental Health Program at the Masonic Institute for the Developing Brain Clinic. She regularly works with community-based preschools and primary care clinics and serves in several Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion leadership roles at the University and in the community. She enjoys opportunities (like today) that integrate her passion for DEI work with her children’s mental health expertise!

Dr. Lingras is the author of "A Kids Book About Mental Health" - a children's book designed to facilitate conversations about mental health between children and their grown-ups - and several publications that help to translate her clinical expertise to practice. In her free time, Dr. Lingras enjoys singing in a community women’s choir, running, and spending time with her family.

* Attendees can earn 1 Social Work CEU

Utah Association for Infant Mental Health upcoming events

Talking with Children about Race and Social Identity During Complex and Changing Times (June 05, 2026)