The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) provides reimbursement for nutritious meals and snacks served to children across New York in eligible childcare and afterschool programs. CACFP Ambassador Yohaina Martinez, Program Director of Little Feet Big Steps Daycare, shares how this vital nutrition program supports children in care.
“CACFP has truly helped shape a culture of healthy eating and learning that will benefit these children for years to come.”
At Little Feet Big Steps Daycare, CACFP is more than a food program. “With CACFP, I have been able to ensure that every child receives well-balanced meals that nourish their growing bodies and minds,” said Yohaina. Each spring, children in care help grow tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and more through their farm-to-table project. In addition to eating nutritious meals, children learn about where food comes from and the effort and knowledge it takes to grow fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
Fresh and seasonal produce is incorporated into snacks and meals, from salad bowls to herby pasta sauces. This hands-on approach helps children get excited to eat fruits and vegetables after watching them grow from seed to harvest. “The kids especially enjoy our tomato and cucumber salads drizzled with balsamic glaze,” states Yohaina.
“There's something really special about watching them enjoy meals made with ingredients they helped grow!”
Involving the kids in every step helps them feel connected to what they eat
This year’s goal is to add even more vegetables to the garden
Produce from the garden is incorporated into meals
Tips to Start or Expand Gardening Activities in Your Program
“Involve the children in every step—planting, watering, and harvesting—so they feel connected to what they eat,” states Yohaina. She also recommends starting small. “You don’t need a huge garden to make an impact, and you don’t have to spend a lot of money on seeds.” The farm-to-table project at Little Feet Big Steps Daycare began with herbs and tomatoes. Each year, they add something new; this year, it will be sweet potatoes, carrots, and potatoes.
Providers can connect with local libraries, their local Cornell Cooperative Extension, and other community resources for tips, tricks, supplies, and seeds to get started. If your program is in an area with limited access to land for growing, opt for container or community gardening. Additional farm-to-CACFP resources are available from the USDA, FRAC, and the National Farm to School Network.
Are You a Childcare Provider Wondering if CACFP is Right for You?
“Go for it!” recommends Yohaina. “Take advantage of the resources available, ask questions, and plan meals that align with the guidelines while still being fun and engaging for the children.” In addition to reimbursement for serving healthy meals, CACFP offers “an opportunity to introduce kids to a variety of healthy foods and create positive eating habits early on.”
Want to learn more or have questions about getting started?
Email Kayla.Snyder@HungerSolutionsNY.org or visit Childcare Meals NY.
