Raising a Thinking Child 2026

Raising a Thinking Child

Raising a Thinking Child is a 6-session program for parents, caregivers, and early childhood educators. Raising a Thinking Child helps adults build critical thinking, impulse control, problem-solving, and conflict resolution skills in young children aged 4 to 7 years.

You will learn how to:

Build children’s skills to solve their own problems

Use games to help children learn about problem solving skills and consequences

Help kids care about and understand their feelings and those of others

The program is typically offered once a week for six weeks. Each session offers a mix of listening and group discussion. You will receive a workbook filled with activities you can do with your child.

Young girl running through field smiling.

The Benefits for Families

Parents and caregivers from across Wisconsin take part in Raising a Thinking Child each year. Six months after taking the program, parents and caregivers report lasting benefits. Compared to before the program, parents and caregivers reported:

Using certain skills more often, such as teaching children to think about consequences and solutions

Better control over their own frustration during interactions with their children

Less challenging behavior in children, like hitting and kicking

“My family is much happier. My son reacts much less with hitting and yelling and now responds much better with talking through problems.”
– Parent in the Raising a Thinking Child program

Upcoming Classes

Raising a Thinking Child

A six-week series on Tuesday mornings. A workbook and other materials will be sent to your mailing address. 12 hours of Wisconsin Registry credit are available for early childhood educators.

September 20-October 20, 2026

9:00-10:15 AM

Raising a Thinking Child

A six-week series on Tuesday evenings. A workbook and other materials will be sent to your mailing address. 12 hours of Wisconsin Registry credit are available for early childhood educators.

September 20-October 20, 2026

6:00-7:15 PM

Sign Up for Class

Extension educators offer Raising a Thinking Child classes online and in-person. Check out our class calendar below to find a Raising a Thinking Child class open to all parents and caregivers in Wisconsin.

Find This Class in Our Calendar

Early Childhood Educators

Continuing education hours are available for early childhood educators. During registration, you will be asked to provide your Wisconsin Registry number.

Approved by the Wisconsin Registry
12 continuing education hours available
Offered twice a year