CACFP Week, also known as the Child and Adult Care Food Program Week, is an annual event that highlights the significance of nutritious meals and snacks for children and adults. This nationwide initiative takes place from March 10-16, 2024, and aims to acknowledge the CACFP’s commendable work in supplying healthy food to millions of individuals in schools, daycare centers, and after-school programs.
Exciting Snack Ideas for CACFP Week
Fruit Kabobs: Encourage children to eat a colorful variety of fruits by creating fun and enticing fruit kabobs. Simply skewer pieces of different fruits, such as strawberries, pineapples, and grapes, onto wooden sticks. Not only are fruit kabobs visually appealing, but they also provide essential vitamins and minerals.
Yogurt Parfaits: Create delicious yogurt parfaits by layering yogurt, granola, and fresh berries in clear cups. This snack is not only tasty but also provides a good source of protein, calcium, and fiber. You can even let the children assemble their own parfaits, allowing them to develop their independence and decision-making skills.
Vegetable “Sushi” Rolls: Get creative with vegetables by making vegetable “sushi” rolls. Spread a thin layer of cream cheese on a tortilla, then add a variety of thinly sliced vegetables, such as carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers. Roll the tortilla tightly and cut it into bite-sized pieces. This snack is a great way to introduce children to new vegetables while providing them with essential nutrients.
Engaging Activities to Celebrate CACFP Week
Cooking Demonstrations: Organize cooking demonstrations where children can observe and participate in the preparation of healthy snacks. This hands-on activity not only educates children about nutrition but also enhances their culinary skills. Encourage them to ask questions and share their experiences with healthy eating.
Garden Tours: Take children on a guided tour of a local garden or create a small garden. Teach them about different fruits and vegetables and how they grow. Engaging with nature and learning about where food comes from helps children develop a deeper appreciation for healthy eating.
Food Tasting Stations: Set up food-tasting stations where children can sample a variety of healthy snacks. Create different stations with options like hummus and vegetable sticks, whole grain crackers with cheese, and yogurt with fruit. This activity allows children to explore new flavors and textures while encouraging them to make nutritious food choices.
Art and Crafts: Encourage children to express their creativity through art and crafts activities related to food. They can create collages using pictures of healthy foods or design their own menu using colorful paper and markers. These activities help children develop fine motor skills and enhance their understanding of healthy food choices.
CACFP Week Resources and Materials
To make the most of CACFP Week, utilize the resources and materials available to you. The CACFP website provides a wealth of information, including educational materials, recipe ideas, and downloadable posters. Take advantage of these resources to enhance your activities and engage children in a meaningful way.
CACFP Sesame Street Activity Pages
Vegetables Help Us Grow Coloring Sheet
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