Fall brings some of the best produce of the year — and most of it is CACFP-creditable. Apples, sweet potatoes, butternut squash, pumpkin, pears, carrots, and beets are all in season, affordable, and easy to work into your existing menus. Whether you’re planning breakfast, lunch, supper, or snack, here’s how to bring fall flavors into
August is National Breastfeeding Month — a time to recognize the families who choose to breastfeed and the providers who support them every day. If you care for infants in a CACFP-participating program, breastfeeding support is already part of what you do. The CACFP infant meal pattern is designed to encourage breastfeeding, and your role as a
The USDA has officially released the 2026–2027 CACFP reimbursement rates, effective July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027. Rates increased across all meal types and program categories. And yes — the new rates have already been updated in KidKare, retroactive to July 1, 2026. 2026–2027 Rates: Contiguous States Centers and Afterschool Programs Meal Type Free Change Reduced
As a CACFP sponsor, July marks the start of one of the most important planning windows of the year: preparing your annual budget for the October 1 submission. The CACFP fiscal year runs October 1 through September 30, which means your organization’s FY2027 budget needs to be drafted, reviewed, and submitted to your state agency
Summer changes everything in a childcare program — the schedule, the energy, and definitely the appetite. When it’s hot outside, heavy snacks don’t land the same way. Kids want something cool, colorful, and easy to eat between activities. The good news? CACFP-creditable snacks are a perfect fit for summer. Fresh fruits, vegetables, yogurt, and whole
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
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
In the ever-changing landscape of childcare management, staying ahead means embracing technology that evolves with your needs. This month, we’re excited to announce that Parachute has transformed from a robust financial software into a comprehensive childcare management system with powerful new features designed to streamline your operations and enhance parent communication. The Evolution of Parachute With 30 years of industry experience behind
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
In the world of childcare and adult care services, participation in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) provides vital financial support for serving nutritious meals. However, the path to successful program participation is paved with detailed requirements, extensive documentation, and regular monitoring. Understanding how centers and providers can make or break CACFP compliance
