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This handbook was developed by USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Administration for Children and Families, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and Health Resources and Services Administration to help CACFP child care providers create healthier environments for the children in their care. It includes a series of tip sheets addressing wellness recommendations from the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2010 and Caring for Our Children: National Health and Safety Performance Standards; Guidelines for Early Care and Education, 3rd Edition. Each tip sheet focuses on a specific topic and includes a practical application section to help providers apply the tips to their child care program. By using the tip sheets when planning meals and activities for children ages 2 through 5 years old, providers can incorporate key recommendations and best practices into their menus and daily schedules.

The success stories shared in the handbook highlight examples of new and exciting ways CACFP child care programs have improved the food they serve children and the activities they plan. Links to additional resources are also included in the publication, which features a new CACFP Wellness Resources Web page. As part of the USDA National Agricultural Library, the Web page is designed to help CACFP participants find the resources they need to meet wellness recommendations.

Target Audience: CACFP Child Care Providers caring for children 2 through 5 years old

Source: TEAM Nutrition, Food and Nutrition Service

Available at: http://www.teamnutrition.usda.gov/Resources/nutritionandwellness.html