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Senate Partner Bill: Child Care Nutrition Enhancement Act

The Child Care Nutrition Enhancement Act was introduced in the Senate by Senator Casey to permanently:
• Increase reimbursement rates by 10 cent for each meal and snack
• Eliminate the tiering of family day care homes
• Allow family day care home providers to claim their own children’s meals for reimbursement
• Shift the calculation of family child care homes’ reimbursement from “food at home” to “food away from home” to align with centers

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Fundamentals of Measuring: Weight and Volume 

Which weighs more: a pound of lettuce or a pound of carrots? It’s a trick question! They weigh the same. However, if you think about how much space each would take up, a pound of lettuce would fill many more cups than a pound of carrots. Measuring can be confusing, so ICN’s November Mealtime Memo explains the difference between weight and volume and describe tools to measure both most accurately.

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Scholarships Available for #NCNC24!

We are thrilled to offer 7 scholarships for the 2024 National Child Nutrition Conference in-person in Orlando, Florida. We will also be awarding 8 additional scholarships to attend the conference virtually.

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Policy Basics: Understanding Laws, Regulations and Rulemaking ($)

Understanding the complexities of policy can be difficult, but it’s important to know the different mechanisms that create and affect the CACFP. In this interactive policy crash course, we will answer questions like: What is determined by Congress and what is determined by USDA? What is the difference between a law and a regulation? What’s the process for creating a new rule for CACFP? Equip yourself with essential knowledge for better understanding and navigation of policy that shapes the CACFP.

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Emotional Well-Being

Through a slew of new Sesame Street in Communities (SSIC) bilingual , research-based resources and engaging content, trusted adults can help children develop a foundation of essential skills they need to understand and manage their feelings. With a focus on the mind-body connection, SSIC’s latest resources support emotional awareness and understanding, and demonstrate techniques to promote healthy minds and bodies.

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Off-Site Monitoring Waiver: Oregon Case Study

USDA has the authority to waive on-site monitoring requirements for the CACFP. State Agencies can submit a 12(l) waiver application to USDA in order to allow for off-site monitoring flexibilities in their state. Oregon was the first state to submit an application and the first state to be approved! Read about their approved waiver.

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The CACFP Strengthens the Child Care Infrastructure

The CACFP serves millions of children and adults in care and supports thousands of child and adult care providers nationwide. The support from the CACFP helps struggling providers to keep costs low and increase the competitiveness of their small businesses.

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November Snack Attack

Try out these #CACFPCreditable snack combinations when you plan your next grocery trip!

String cheese and mixed fruit
Kale salad with raspberries
Muesli and raisins
Watermelon and cucumber
Whole grain-rich roll and applesauce

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Crafting Winter Memories: Activities & Recipes ($)

The winter months are fast approaching! Join us in embracing the chilly season as we explore a selection of winter fruits and vegetables, accompanied by comforting and inviting recipes. Learn some fun and engaging indoor activities to enjoy during the colder months so you can make enduring memories with those in your care.

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#NCNC24 Registration Now Open!

Registration is now open for the 2024 National Child Nutrition Conference. This year we’re hosting our premier event in Orlando, Florida, and we can’t wait to see you there.

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