CACFP Training Tools

CACFP has resources and publications that will help you put together great tasting, nutritious meals and snacks that children will enjoy.

CACFP Training Tools:

These colorful and engaging materials can be used to empower Child and Adult Care Food Program providers and operators with the knowledge, skills, and expertise to implement the updated CACFP meal pattern requirements that became effective October 1, 2017.  

  • CACFP Meal Pattern Training Worksheets- These short, two-page worksheets include scenario-based questions or activities to test and reinforce knowledge of key concepts in the CACFP Meal Patterns. They can be used to empower CACFP providers and operators with the knowledge, skills, and expertise to implement the updated CACFP meal pattern requirements that became effective October 1, 2017. Find here.
  • CACFP Meal Pattern Posters-These colorful posters use photography shot specifically for settings participating in the Child and Adult Care Food Program, and measure 11” by 17”- Find here.
  • Infographics- Available in print for schools, CACFP providers, and summer meal programs participating in one of USDA’s Child Nutrition programs. All are welcome to download these materials and make copies. If you have difficulty opening any of these files in your Internet browser, please right-click on the link and “save target as…” to download. Find here.

New for 2020 - Kick-Off Your 2020 Training Calendar With The Latest Resources From Team Nutrition ! Find then here. 

Nutrition Standards for CACFP Meals and Snacks

 The CACFP nutrition standards for meals and snacks served in the CACFP are based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Under these standards, meals and snacks served include a greater variety of vegetables and fruit, more whole grains, and less added sugar and saturated fat.  USDA provides guidance, resources, best practices, and training for CACFP centers and day care homes to support them in providing healthy, balanced meals and snacks to the children and adults they serve.  Guidance and technical assistance can be found here.

Recipes and Cookbooks:

  • Recipes for Healthy Kids: Cookbook for Child Care Centers-the recipes in the cookbook feature foods both children and adults should consume more of: dark green and orange vegetables, dry beans and peas, and whole grains. All of these healthy recipes are low in total fat, saturated fat, sugar and sodium. With fun names like Porcupine Sliders, Smokin' Powerhouse Chili, and Squish Squash Lasagna, these kid-tested, kid-approved recipes are sure to please children and be an instant hit! Order here.
  • Recipes for Healthy Kids: Cookbook for Healthy Kids Cookbook for Homes . Find here.
  • USDA Standardized Recipes- Recipes for 25-50 and 50-100 servings-These recipes provide Child Nutrition Program operators with delicious new dishes that meet meal pattern requirements. These recipes are standardized to provide updated crediting information, including the vegetable subgroups. They also include recipes made with legumes, whole grains, and/or dark green, red, and/or orange vegetables. Find here.
  • Central and South American recipes can be found here.

 

 

Contact

Healthy Living Field Specialist
Extension Field Specialist, Health & Well-Being
Phone: (603) 255-3611 ext. 812
Office: UNH Cooperative Extension, Taylor Hall, Durham, NH 03824