Nutrition
Nourishing Healthy Bodies and Healthy Minds
Proper nutrition plays a vital role in children's growth, brain development, learning, and lifelong health. Explore trusted organizations that provide guidance on healthy meals, nutrition education, food safety, and child nutrition programs for early childhood settings.
Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP)
Website: https://www.fns.usda.gov/cacfp
Focus
Provides reimbursement and nutrition guidance for eligible child care centers, family child care homes, and after-school programs.
Best For
- Child Care Centers
- Family Child Care Homes
- Program Directors
Resources Available
- Meal Reimbursements
- Meal Pattern Requirements
- Nutrition Guidance
- Training Resources
- Policy Updates
USDA Team Nutrition
Website: https://www.fns.usda.gov/tn/team-nutrition
Focus
Supports child nutrition programs through free educational materials, recipes, training, and nutrition resources.
Best For
- Teachers
- Directors
- Food Service Staff
Resources Available
- Nutrition Education
- Healthy Recipes
- Printable Resources
- Staff Training
- Family Engagement Materials
Institute of Child Nutrition (ICN)
Website: https://theicn.org
Focus
Provides education, research, and professional development for child nutrition professionals.
Best For
- Food Service Managers
- Child Care Directors
- CACFP Sponsors
Resources Available
- Online Training
- Menu Planning
- Food Safety Resources
- Nutrition Education
- Professional Development
MyPlate
Website: https://www.myplate.gov
Focus
Provides practical nutrition guidance to help children and families build healthy eating habits.
Best For
- Teachers
- Families
- Nutrition Coordinators
Resources Available
- Healthy Eating Resources
- Meal Planning
- Recipes
- Printable Activities
- Nutrition Education
Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
Website: https://www.eatright.org
Focus
Provides evidence-based nutrition information developed by registered dietitians and nutrition professionals.
Best For
- Child Care Programs
- Families
- Health Professionals
Resources Available
- Nutrition Articles
- Healthy Eating Resources
- Food Safety Guidance
- Professional Resources
Action for Healthy Kids
Website: https://www.actionforhealthykids.org
Focus
Supports healthy eating, physical activity, and wellness initiatives for children through educational resources and community partnerships.
Best For
- Early Childhood Programs
- Schools
- Families
Resources Available
- Wellness Resources
- Nutrition Education
- Family Engagement
Produce for Better Health Foundation
Website: https://fruitsandveggies.org
Focus
Encourages increased fruit and vegetable consumption through education, recipes, and nutrition resources.
Best For
- Teachers
- Families
- Child Care Programs
Resources Available
- Healthy Recipes
- Nutrition Resources
- Printable Activities
- Family Education
Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE)
Website: https://www.foodallergy.org
Focus
Provides trusted guidance on food allergy awareness, prevention, emergency preparedness, and allergy-safe environments.
Best For
- Child Care Owners
- Directors
- Teachers
- Families
Resources Available
- Food Allergy Education
- Emergency Action Plans
- Training Resources
- Food Safety Guidance
- Family Resources
Balanced
Website: https://www.balanced.org
Focus
Advocates for healthier food environments through nutrition policy, institutional support, and evidence-based resources that promote nutritious meals.
Best For
- Child Care Owners
- Directors
- Food Service Managers
- Nutrition Advocates
Resources Available
- Nutrition Advocacy
- Healthy Menu Resources
- Institutional Support
- Nutrition Policy Information
- Educational Resources
- Research & Reports