Summer is around the corner – and that means it’s time to get your Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) planning in motion. The USDA just released the updated SFSP reimbursement rates for 2026, giving sponsors a clearer picture of how much funding you can expect for meals served this year – and more importantly, how to plan so you’re
Managing nutrition programs that serve 4.5 million children daily requires precision, compliance, and efficiency¹. Effective CACFP meal planning requires understanding federal guidelines and implementing systematic approaches that ensure every child receives nutritious meals while maintaining program compliance. With $3.5 billion in annual reimbursements at stake, proper planning isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential for program sustainability¹. For
Childcare centers today face mounting challenges: staffing shortages, rising wage costs, and increasingly complex CACFP requirements. Among these, one issue stands out as both time-consuming and prone to errors — labor tracking. Yet, many centers still rely on outdated methods like paper timesheets, Google Sheets, or generic HR tools that don’t fit the unique needs
We had so many great questions during our Year-End Peace of Mind webinar that we wanted to follow up with clear, easy-to-understand answers — no tax degree required. Below, you’ll find answers from Mohamed, CPA, along with helpful guidance on how Parachute supports your bookkeeping and tax prep throughout the year. Tax & Bookkeeping Questions (Answered by Mohamed Aalen, CPA, MBA,
As we celebrate National Milk Day on January 11th, it’s the perfect time to highlight the crucial role milk plays in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) and children’s overall development. This nutrient-rich beverage has been a cornerstone of childhood nutrition for generations, and for good reason. The Nutritional Powerhouse: Why Milk Matters
Feeding children every day is one of the biggest costs of running a family child care. Whether you’re already on the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) — or not quite ready yet — you do have ways to recoup a portion of what you spend on food. This post explains the two financial “roads” you
Childcare providers already understand the Time/Space Percentage — it’s a core part of running a home business and preparing for tax season. But because the workday is long, routines are packed, and responsibilities never end, it’s easy for smaller details to slip through. The truth is: you’re doing Time/Space already — but you may be too
Every home childcare provider knows this moment. You open a drawer. Or a shoebox. Or your photo gallery. And you realize: “My receipts are everywhere… and tax season is coming.” You’re not alone. Most providers face tax time with a pile of scattered receipts, missing proof of payment, and questions about what the IRS actually
In today’s rapidly evolving childcare landscape, entrepreneurs need to stay ahead of emerging trends and requirements. Whether you’re an experienced provider looking to expand or a newcomer to the industry, this comprehensive guide will illuminate your path forward. With actionable strategies for securing funding, navigating licensing requirements, and maximizing benefits from the Food Program, you’ll
Thanksgiving is a special time of year when families gather to express gratitude and share a delicious meal. As childcare providers, you have the opportunity to create a memorable and educational experience for the little ones in your care. In this article, we will explore a variety of fun activities and easy recipes that will
