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 Yet, many centers still rely on outdated methods like paper timesheets, Google Sheets, or generic HR tools that don’t fit the unique needs
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
As a child care provider in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), you have a valuable opportunity to contribute to the overall well-being and development of the children under your care. By offering nutritious meals with reduced sodium content, you can help children develop healthy eating habits and support their growth. In this
Every childcare provider knows that moment when a picky eater finally tries a new vegetable, or when a child asks for seconds of a healthy meal you’ve carefully planned. These small victories happen because you understand something important: the meals you serve today are building tomorrow’s healthy adults. National Child Health Day, celebrated each first
As the landscape of nutritional guidelines evolves, childcare providers must adapt to new regulations that ensure children receive healthier meals. One significant change coming into effect is the updated added sugar limits for breakfast cereals and yogurts under the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). With the implementation date set for October 1, 2025, it
The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) plays a crucial role in providing nutritious meals to children and adults in care settings. CACFP recipes are essential to ensure that participants receive balanced and delicious meals that meet program requirements. Developing menus that are both appealing and compliant can be challenging, but with the right
The USDA has officially announced updated CACFP reimbursement rates, effective July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026. These new rates include welcome increases across most meal categories, offering additional support for family child care providers, centers, and sponsoring organizations. If you’re a KidKare customer, these updates are already reflected in your KidKare Account! What’s New in
Creating and managing a budget for the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) can feel overwhelming, especially with changing regulations and fiscal requirements. As a CACFP sponsor overseeing multiple sites, your budget isn’t just a financial document—it’s the foundation of your program’s success and compliance. This CACFP budget guide will walk sponsors through the
