Quality Rating 5: CACFP

Child and Adult Care Food Program Participation

While the predisposition for obesity may begin before birth, the roots of obesity are often established between the ages of two and five. Because children often eat at least half of their meals and snacks in a child care or school setting, careful planning of nutritious meals and snacks is essential to healthy growth and development. Programs committed to serving healthy food choices create menus that include fresh fruits and vegetables and limit fat, sugar, and salt.

The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) provides funding for meals and snacks served in eligible child care centers, family child care homes, and after-school programs. Eligible programs participating in CACFP recognize the importance of promoting young children’s healthy habits and laying the foundation for healthy lifestyles. These programs receive cash reimbursement for meals served, menu planning, and nutrition education.

This section guides you in understanding the requirements for Administrative Policies and Practices: CACFP: ADM 3.5. If your program is ineligible to participate in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) or has chosen not to participate, follow the instructions for completing the Ineligibility / Non-Participation Form.

Select the Requirements tab to learn more about key information to include in your documentation.