2027 Workshops

March 29 - April 2, 2027

Chicago, Illinois

Workshops & Speed Sessions

Workshops and speed sessions do not require pre-registration, and you are welcome to attend any one you desire.

Browse our workshops by looking at the conference's education tracks.

If you'll be joining us in Chicago, your registration fee includes all workshop sessions, doubling your investment with on-demand viewing.

Workshops are one hour long, while Speed Sessions are 30 minutes long and will have no Q&A following the presentation. Both are part of the education tracks, and Speed Sessions will be designated below.

We'll mark which sessions will be hybrid onsite/virtual sessions. These sessions can still be attended onsite, but will also be recorded and available for on-demand viewing through April 30, 2027. So, if you're having trouble deciding between a hybrid session and another workshop during that time slot, you can choose both!

If you're unable to be onsite, your registration fee will cover live Zoom access to all hybrid sessions plus on-demand viewing through April 30, 2027.

Nutrition Education

Farm to CACFP

Summer Food

Program Administration & Operations

Financial Management

Reasearch & Resources

Management & Professional Development

Policy & Advocacy

K-12 Nutrition Programs

Nutrition Education

Benefits of Nutrition Education in Early Childhood Settings

Explore how nutrition education directly supports school readiness and helps young children thrive in and out of the classroom. As early childhood educators, we understand that a child's health is connected to their ability to learn, engage and succeed in school. By embedding nutrition education into early education settings, we can lay a solid foundation for academic success and healthy lifelong habits. ~CEU Specialty 1

Discover how nutrition fuels learning and development.
Explore ways nutrition improves energy and concentration.
Identify strategies that build lifelong healthy habits.

Presented by:

Braxton Price, Community Action Council - Lexington, KY

Jessica Sims, Community Action Council - Lexington, KY

Donde la cultura inspira y la alimentación educa

La alimentación es mucho más que consumir alimentos; refleja nuestra cultura, tradiciones y valores. Esta presentación muestra cómo la cultura, la educación y la nutrición se relacionan para crear hábitos saludables desde la infancia. También explora estrategias inclusivas para que familias, educadores y líderes comunitarios promuevan el bienestar, el aprendizaje y el respeto por la diversidad cultural. ~ CEU Specialty 1

La cultura como base de nuestros hábitos alimentarios.
La educación como herramienta para transformar hábitos.
La alimentación como motor del desarrollo y el bienestar.

Presented by: Marielisa Vera, MS, The Committee for Hispanic Children and Families

Engaging Strategies to Integrate the New Dietary Guidelines

Explore practical, engaging ways to teach young children key nutrition concepts in CACFP and Head Start programs. Review the Eat Real Food framework and discover evidence-based ways to increase dietary fiber intake. Leave with ideas that support healthy habits, meal pattern compliance and family education. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Apply the framework to guide balanced nutrition choices.
Identify hidden names for sugar in common foods.
Integrate nutrition guidelines into education programming.

Presented by: Michelle Lombardo, DC, The OrganWise Guys

Food Allergies, Food Intolerances and Celiac Disease

Food allergies, food intolerances and celiac disease present unique challenges in early childhood settings and require informed, evidence-based approaches to ensure children's health and safety. Explore the key differences between food allergies, food intolerances and celiac disease so you can create safer, more inclusive environments that support the health and well-being of the children in your care. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Differentiate between food allergies, food intolerances and celiac disease.
Apply effective food safety and allergy management practices.
Learn to create safer, more inclusive early childhood environments.

Presented by: Carmen A. Guzman, PhD, Family Services of Westchester, Inc.

Managing Special Diets for Inclusive Mealtime Experiences

Children in the CACFP may need meal modifications for medical or non-medical reasons, including allergies, intolerances, disabilities, religious practices, cultural preferences, and family choices. Navigating these requests requires balancing compliance, food safety, meal patterns, and inclusion. Discover best practices to manage special diets and create safe, inclusive mealtimes for every child. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Differentiate between medical and non-medical special diet requests.
Implement safe, compliant practices for special dietary needs.
Develop inclusive approaches for children with special dietary needs.

Presented by: Emily Morgan, MS, RDN, CLC, CCNP, Child Parent Centers

Mealtime as Curriculum

You plan circle time with care, but the richest teaching block in your day may already be on your schedule: the CACFP meal. Language, math, science, culture and self-regulation are all on the table, three times a day, every day. Discover simple, no-prep strategies to see, teach and document the learning hiding inside every meal you already serve. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Identify learning across developmental domains during CACFP meals.
Apply intentional teaching during mealtimes with no extra prep.
Document mealtime learning for CACFP, licensing and quality improvements.

Presented by: Bhavini Patel, MS, CCNP, Kirkland Child Care

Nourishing the First Five Years: Building Healthy Brains

The first five years are the fastest period of brain development in a child's life. During this time, nutrition provides the building blocks needed for neural connections, cognitive development, emotional regulation, language acquisition and lifelong health. By prioritizing fresh, local, nutrient-dense foods in early childhood settings, we can improve developmental outcomes while creating healthier communities. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Explain how early nutrition shapes brain development.
Identify key nutrients and foods that support children’s development.
Describe how the CACFP and local sourcing support healthy child outcomes.

Presented by: Val Wiestner, CCNP, Sunbeam Family Services

Nourishing Young Minds Starts With Us

Supporting healthy eating habits early sets the foundation for lifelong wellness. Empower yourself with the knowledge and tools to support healthy eating habits in young children. Learn about the benefits of the CACFP, its impact on child health and academic success, and how childcare providers, educators, families and communities can work together to create healthier futures for the children they serve. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Understand how nutrition fuels learning and development.
Identify how the CACFP supports healthy eating habits.
Discover how everyone plays a role in nourishing young minds.

Presented by:

Valarie Glee, CCNP, Coastal Plain Head Start Area EOA

Shaimake Woods-Tilley, Coastal Plain Head Start Area EOA

Rethinking Feeding as a Developmental Process

Join a pediatrician and career educator to explore how developmental science can transform the way we approach new foods in early childhood settings. Learn best practices using sensory exploration, repeated exposure, modeling, and pressure-free practices to help children build confidence, flexibility, and positive relationships with food. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Recognize feeding as a developmental process.
Use sensory exploration to support new food learning.
Create pressure-free mealtimes through modeling.

Presented by:

Nimali Fernando, MD, MPH, Dr. Yum Project

Wendy Cannon, Dr. Yum Project

Supporting ECE Staff Wellness through Physical Activity

Early childhood professionals move throughout the day but often don't see this as a form of self-care. Learn how movement with children can build educator health and resilience while enhancing the quality of care provided. Identify ways to incorporate movement into the workday and how active play can benefit both adults and children. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Understand how physical activity supports adult health.
Incorporate time-efficient movement breaks that boost energy.
Discover child-focused activities that build adult movement.

Presented by:

Rebekah Duchette, RN, Nemours Children's Health

Caliste Hope, MS, Nemours Children's Health

CACFP Meal Patterns

Beyond Picky Eating: Feeding Children on the Spectrum

Children on the autism spectrum may experience sensory sensitivities, food selectivity, rigid routines, and feeding challenges. Learn strategies to help CACFP professionals distinguish preferences from disability-related needs, create supportive mealtimes, document accommodations, and maintain meal-pattern compliance without using pressure or making unnecessary menu changes. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Recognize sensory and behavioral feeding challenges.
Create supportive, pressure-free mealtime routines.
Manage accommodations while maintaining CACFP compliance.

Presented by:

Rhonda Kobylecky, CMP, CCNP, Acelero Learning, Inc.

Sheila Tompkins-Hess, Nevada Department of Health & Human Services, Division of Child and Family Services

Building a Cycle Menu

Menu planning is more than just demonstrating CACFP meal pattern compliance. It’s a tool for staying organized, meeting requirements and supporting child nutrition. Learn how to create a practical and compliant cycle menu. Whether you're new to menu planning or looking for fresh ideas, you'll leave with helpful tools and resources to make the process easier and more effective. ~ CEU Specialty 2

Understand the benefits of using a cycle menu for organization.
Walk through the steps of developing a cycle menu.
Gain access to practical tools and templates to support CACFP meal pattern compliance.

Presented by: Melinda Nguyen, MS, RDN, LD, National CACFP Association

CACFP-Friendly Ways to Limit Added Sugars

Added sugar limits for yogurt and breakfast cereals are part of CACFP requirements. Understand the added sugar requirements and learn how to identify added sugars on the Nutrition Facts label and ingredient list. Explore practical ways to evaluate products and adapt menus so you can confidently meet CACFP requirements while continuing to serve appealing meals and snacks. ~ CEU Specialty 2

Learn how to use the Nutrition Facts label to identify added sugars in foods.
Evaluate breakfast cereals and yogurts to determine if products meet CACFP added sugar limits.
Adapt CACFP menus and product selections to reduce added sugars.

Presented by: Isabel Ramos-Lebron, MS, RDN, LD, National CACFP Association

Creando una cultura de apoyo a la lactancia materna en el CACFP

La lactancia materna apoya la salud, el crecimiento y el desarrollo de los bebés y es una parte importante del CACFP. Conozca los requisitos del patrón de comidas para bebés, cómo apoyar a las familias que amamantan, el manejo seguro de la leche materna, la alimentación receptiva y las pautas de reembolso. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Identificar prácticas de lactancia materna alineadas con los requisitos del CACFP.
Fomentar entornos de cuidado infantil que apoyen la lactancia materna.
Aplicar prácticas seguras y receptivas de alimentación infantil.

Presented by: Kathryn D. Cordero, CMP, CCNP, CLC, Child Care Resource Network

Creating a Culture of Breastfeeding Support in the CACFP

Breastfeeding plays a vital role in supporting infant health, growth, and development. It is an important component of the CACFP, offering benefits for infants, families, and ECE programs. Learn about infant meal pattern requirements, best practices for supporting breastfeeding families, safe handling and storage of breast milk, responsive feeding, and reimbursement guidelines. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Understand CACFP-compliant breastfeeding practices.
Create inclusive and breastfeeding-friendly child care environments.
Promote safe and responsive infant feeding practices.

Presented by: Kathryn D. Cordero, CMP, CCNP, CLC, Child Care Resource Network

Crediting Recipes Step-by-Step

New to crediting recipes for the CACFP? Join us for this beginner-friendly session where we'll break down the process! Through a step-by-step walkthrough, learn how to identify creditable components, use essential tools and document meal contributions accurately. Whether working in a family child care home, center-based program or emergency shelter, this session offers practical guidance and resources to build confidence in recipe crediting. ~ CEU Specialty 2

Understand the purpose of recipe crediting and identify key components required for CACFP compliance.
Analyze a recipe to credit each component using USDA tools and resources.
Identify common errors in recipe crediting and learn strategies to avoid them.

Presented by: Isabel Ramos-Lebron, MS, RDN, LD, National CACFP Association

Identifying Whole Grain-Rich

Serving whole grain-rich (WGR) grains is an important element of the meal pattern. Learn how to identify which products meet the whole grain-rich regulations. Trainers can use this workshop to support CACFP participants. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Review what whole grain-rich means.
Learn the six methods used to identify if a product is whole grain-rich.
Practical application of all six methods and walk away with valuable resources.

Presented by: Melinda Nguyen, MS, RDN, LD, National CACFP Association

Let's Talk Milk

Dive into fluid milk requirements in the context of CACFP with a special focus on breastmilk. Learn how to meet USDA guidelines while supporting families, honoring feeding preferences, safely feeding infants and ensuring that programs stay compliant from infancy through early childhood. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Understand breastmilk in the context of CACFP.
Learn to support families’ feeding preferences.
Navigate the transition from breastmilk to fluid milk.

Presented by: Kayliegh Fargo, Indiana Department of Health

Plan Like a Pro: Level Up Your Menu Planning

Take CACFP menu planning to the next level with practical strategies that simplify compliance and reduce guesswork. Gain clarity on what to include in menus, how to document components correctly, and how to distinguish between different types of products and service styles. Put knowledge into action during an interactive menu lab where common challenges are addressed and a sample menu is improved step-by-step. This session is best taken after attending the Build a Cycle Menu workshop. ~ CEU Specialty 2

Analyze meal patterns to ensure accurate CACFP menu documentation.
Differentiate between products to determine when extra documentation is needed.
Apply strategies to revise and improve menus in a guided menu lab.

Presented by: Isabel Ramos-Lebron, MS, RDN, LD, National CACFP Association

Right Child, Right Meal: Special Diet Swaps

Navigate the special dietary needs of your participants while maintaining compliance and efficiency in meal planning. Learn to modify menus to accommodate allergies, intolerances, medical needs and lifestyle preferences without disrupting meal service. Get strategies for making substitutions that meet CACFP meal pattern requirements, preserve nutritional integrity while remaining manageable within daily operations. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Evaluate needs and choose compliant substitutions that ensure inclusivity.
Identify CACFP‑approved swaps that meet specific dietary restrictions.
Apply strategies to adjust meals while preserving nutrition and workflow.

Presented by: Melinda Nguyen, MS, RDN, LD, National CACFP Association

Understanding Protein Options in the CACFP

The 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines give both plant and animal protein a place on the plate. Balanced and the National Pork Board unpack what the Guidelines actually say, how both protein sources are credited within CACFP meal patterns, and how to answer the family questions the protein conversation is generating. ~ CEU Specialty 2

Describe the role of plant and animal proteins in CACFP meal patterns.
Differentiate protein marketing claims from DGA recommendations.
Respond to family questions about protein with confidence.

Presented by:

Michelle Saletan, Balanced

LaChell Miller, MS, RD, National Pork Board

Using Your Menu to Spark Learning and Play

Your CACFP menu can be so much more than a compliance document; it can spark learning, creativity and meaningful connections. Discover how a one-week menu can inspire engaging, hands-on experiences that support early learning and child development, all while reinforcing CACFP best practices. ~ CEU Specialty 2

Analyze a menu to find learning opportunities across early domains.
Design low‑cost activities linking menu items to learning or engagement.
Evaluate ways to extend menu‑based learning from program to home.

Presented by: Isabel Ramos-Lebron, MS, RDN, LD, National CACFP Association

Whole Grains Kids Love: Practical CACFP Menu Strategies

Struggling to make whole grains a hit with kids and meet CACFP requirements? Learn best practices for menuing whole grains, boosting acceptance and building them into CACFP-compliant menus. Review food pairing strategies, positive feeding approaches, and evidence-based messaging to address misconceptions about carbohydrates and whole grains with families and caregivers. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Describe the health benefits of whole grains for young children.
Identify strategies for increasing children’s acceptance of whole-grain foods.
Develop messaging to promote whole grains with families and staff.

Presented by: Alex Turnbull, RDN, LD, The Family Nutritionist LLC

Farm to CACFP

Cultivating Connections and Habits Through Farm to CACFP

It all started with a carrot! Follow the journey from Farm to CACFP and discover how fresh, local foods can shape lifelong eating habits. Bring fresh foods into early childhood settings through stories, sourcing tips, farmer connections, and four flavorful CACFP-friendly recipes. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Recognize how exposure to diverse foods and flavors shape eating habits.
Identify barriers to accessing fresh, local foods.
Understand the value of early food education.

Presented by:

LynAnn VanDyk, CMP, CCNP, YWCA of Kalamazoo

Amy Buskirk, ValleyHUB

Digging In: Active Play in ECE Gardens

Get ready to dig, move, and grow! Turn ECE gardens into exciting spaces for active play, movement, and discovery. Discover garden activities that build fundamental movement skills while encouraging curiosity, exploration, and connection with nature. Try movement games and activities for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, with ideas for engaging families along the way. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Use gardens to promote movement and active play.
Recognize the benefits of outdoor time for children and ECE staff.
Lead active games that connect to garden themes.

Presented by:

Rebekah Duchette, RN, Nemours Children's Health

Caliste Hope, MS, Nemours Children's Health

Farm Fresh Taste Tests: Engage Kids with New Foods

Every eating experience is a chance for children to try new foods and learn where food comes from. Explore key considerations for planning and carrying out successful taste tests through an engaging example activity. Gain practical ideas and strategies to confidently plan and execute taste tests while incorporating nutrition education into every meal and snack. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Explain how taste tests support nutrition education and Farm to ECE initiatives.
Identify best practices for planning and conducting safe, engaging taste tests.
Create a practical taste test plan for an early care and education setting.

Presented by: Kevin Davidson, Rural Health Network of South Central NY

Farm to CACFP: Give Your Food Program a Head Start

Farm-to-institution doesn’t happen overnight. Start where you are! Learn how to build on your program’s existing strengths, identify realistic next steps, and use resources like Farm to CACFP Week to amplify your efforts. Build momentum with small shifts in sourcing, menus, staff training and family engagement to create lasting change. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Understand how to implement S.M.A.R.T. goals.
Identify small, realistic shifts to build momentum toward larger change.
Review existing resources to amplify impact.

Presented by:

Evelyn Garcia, Lenox Hill Neighborhood House - Teaching Kitchen

Jacqueline Tris, Lenox Hill Neighborhood House - Teaching Kitchen

Growing Healthy Eaters: Garden-Based Curriculum in the Early Years

Young children are more likely to try healthy foods when they are connected to the process of growing them. Through storytelling, discussion and collaborative activities, learn how gardening supports nutrition, science, math, language and social-emotional development. Whether working in a backyard or a schoolyard, leave with strategies to begin using gardening as a tool for healthier eating and deeper learning. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Identify three ways that gardening encourages children to try new foods.
Apply strategies at your site to encourage healthy eating habits.
Develop an actionable plan to integrate garden-to-table at your site.

Presented by: Suzette Salmon, Edulallie, Lil Bebe Academy

Harvesting Funding Opportunities for Farm to ECE

Ready to turn Farm to Early Care and Education (ECE) ideas into funded opportunities? Identify federal and private funding opportunities, find aligned funders, understand how to strengthen grant proposals, use AI ethically in the funding process, and participate in hands-on activities to develop compelling funding pitches and funder search strategies. ~ CEU Specialty 5

Navigate and pursue federal and foundation funding opportunities.
Discover ways to communicate impact and strengthen funding requests.
Apply AI, resources, and targeted searches to the funding process.

Presented by:

Emia Oppenheim, PhD, MPhil, RD, Association of State Public Health Nutritionists

Sunny Baker, National Farm to School Network

Planting Connections: Farmers and Educators in Early Learning

What happens when farmers become learning partners, not just food suppliers? Explore a four-part Farm-to-ECE model, Soil & Seeds, Growing, Harvest, and Taste & Nutrition, that brings farmers and early childhood educators together to create hands-on food experiences. These experiences build children’s curiosity, nutrition knowledge and connections to the people who grow their food. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Develop farmer-educator partnerships for hands-on learning.
Implement the four-part Farm-to-ECE learning cycle.
Connect growing and tasting to positive food experiences.

Presented by: Monica Jackson, CCNP, Jackson Child Care

Head Start

Collaborative Strategies to Support Dietetic Interns

Farmworking families in rural communities often face barriers to nutrition education. Partnerships between Migrant and Seasonal Head Start, WIC, and dietetic internship programs strengthen nutrition education, enhance program systems, and leverage community resources. These collaborations provide learning experiences for interns while empowering families to build healthier futures. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Build partnerships that support interns, families and programs.
Create meaningful, hands-on experiences for dietetic interns.
Expand culturally responsive nutrition education in rural communities.

Presented by:

Flora Chacon, EdD, MEd, Migrant and Seasonal Head Start

Tina Canales, RD, California Department of Public Health

Family Style Dining in Head Start

Family Style Dining transforms everyday meals into opportunities for learning, connection, and healthy development. Explore its purpose, benefits, and best practices for creating safe, welcoming, and engaging mealtimes that promote healthy eating, independence, responsive feeding, social development, cultural responsiveness, and compliance with Head Start and civil rights requirements. ~ CEU Specialty 2

Identify the benefits of Family Style Dining.
Examine the teacher's role in positive mealtime experiences.
Apply strategies that build children's life skills at mealtime.

Presented by: Stephanie Manchester, CMP, CCNP, Acelero Learning, Inc.

Feeding Children with Special Needs in Head Start

Learn how to support children with autism and other disabilities during mealtimes while maintaining CACFP compliance in Head Start programs. Review medical statement requirements, documentation, meal accommodations, recordkeeping, and practical feeding strategies through real-world examples and case studies. ~ CEU Specialty 2

Explore CACFP requirements for children with disabilities, including autism.
Apply reasonable meal accommodations and feeding strategies for support.
Maintain CACFP compliance through accurate recordkeeping practices.

Presented by: Erica Morgan, RDN, Acelero Learning, Inc.

More Than a Meal: Building Engagement Around Your Food Program

A meal can do more than nourish, it can create connection. Turn food programs into opportunities for connection through tastings, culturally relevant recipes, farm-to-program activities, food education, and community resources. Find ways to create meaningful experiences for children, families, and older adults without having to start from scratch. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Reframe food programs as platforms for connection.
Apply engagement strategies within existing food programs.
Adapt culturally responsive approaches across ages and settings.

Presented by:

Evelyn Garcia, Lenox Hill Neighborhood House - Teaching Kitchen

Jacqueline Tris, Lenox Hill Neighborhood House - Teaching Kitchen

The Right Bite: Safe Feeding in Early Head Start and the CACFP

Choking prevention is a critical responsibility in Early Head Start and CACFP settings. Learn how to identify high-risk foods, apply age-appropriate food modifications and meet federal safety requirements for children under age three. Build confidence in creating safer mealtimes while meeting federal program requirements. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Review the golden rule of size and texture.
Identify common high-risk foods and modify them to meet safety standards.
Apply federal safety standards to prevent choking incidents and maintain compliance.

Presented by: Carolina Ferrari, Acelero Learning, Inc.

Promoting Healthy Habits Together through Family Cafés

Partnering with families to promote healthy habits is an effective strategy for ECE professionals to support child development. Better Together Family Cafés provide a practical way to engage families around health, nutrition, and physical activity. Family Cafés strengthen connections and encourage positive health behaviors while offering flexible opportunities for family engagement. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Understand how Family Cafés foster healthy family engagement.
Learn to facilitate conversations around health behaviors and habits.
Identify tools to implement focused Cafés in ECE settings.

Presented by:

Caliste Hope, MS, Nemours Children's Health

Rebekah Duchette, RN, Nemours Children's Health

Speed Session: Savoring Connection and Enriching Community Through Your Kitchen

Building connections through shared nutrition experiences can strengthen programs and communities. Learn how a kitchen team uses cooking and interactive opportunities to engage staff, children, and families. Identify ways to cultivate meaningful relationships and make nutrition experiences a stronger part of your center. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Explore how to foster connections and boost staff morale.
Discover creative ways to engage children through nutrition activities.
Strengthen family engagement through cooking and nutrition experiences.

Presented by: Jasmine Bumps, CCNP, Kennebec Valley Community Action Program - Educare Maine

Using Nutrition to Build Language and School Readiness in Head Start

Mealtimes are more than opportunities to serve healthy food. They are powerful learning environments that support language development, social-emotional growth, executive function, and school readiness. Explore innovative ways Head Start staff can transform everyday meals and snacks into meaningful teaching moments that strengthen child development while supporting nutrition goals. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Learn to use mealtimes to promote language and early literacy skills.
Foster social-emotional development through positive food interactions.
Turn everyday meals into intentional learning opportunities.

Presented by: Maves Rañola, RDN, LDN, CMP, CCNP, Lutheran Services Florida

Summer Food

Breaking Barriers to Rural Summer Meals Access

Ensuring children have reliable access to nutritious food outside of school takes more than a meal program; it requires innovative thinking, strong partnerships and community-driven solutions. YMCA leaders will share how rural communities are overcoming barriers such as transportation, distance, and limited food access through creative summer meal strategies and sustainable program design. ~ CEU Specialty 8

Identify rural barriers to summer food access.
Adapt innovative meal models to expand nutritious food access.
Develop partnerships that support sustainable summer meal access.

Presented by:

Stacey McDaniel, MS, YMCA of the USA

Amy Hobbs, YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina

Brian Nason, YMCA of Southwest Florida

Constance Moore, MBA, MA, CCNP, YMCA of Memphis and the Mid-South

Creating Workforce Pathways Through Summer Meal Sites

Summer meal programs are often viewed solely as a strategy to combat food insecurity, but they can also serve as platforms for workforce development, nutrition education, leadership growth and long-term youth engagement. Learn how the Hey Benji Foundation transformed its site into a hub where teens gain practical job skills, leadership experience, financial literacy and career exposure while helping serve their community. ~ CEU Specialty 8

Learn to transform summer meal sites into workforce development opportunities.
Identify strategies that embed nutrition education, culinary training, certification and leadership into meal programs.
Leverage partnerships to create opportunities and pathways for youth success.

Presented by: Barbara Graham, Hey Benji Foundation

Fresh from the Farm: Local Foods in SUN Meals To-Go

Get ready for a fresh look at SUN Meals-To-Go! Discover how the Virginia Department of Education, community partners and SUN Meals sponsors are bringing local foods to meal service programs. Explore innovative approaches for incorporating fresh, locally sourced foods and strengthening connections between communities, farms and the children they serve. ~ CEU Specialty 8

Develop a high-level understanding of SUN Meals and SUN Meals-To-Go.
Understand the importance and impact of including local foods in SUN Meals.
Identify strategies for incorporating local foods in your SUN Meals-To-Go.

Presented by:

Troyana Cheatham, Virginia Department of Education

Maggie Parker, MSW, Virginia Department of Education

Incorporating Produce into your Summer Meals Program

While federal nutrition programs provide a framework for offering meals to children, we are challenging the boundaries of what supporting families in our service area can look like. Learn how the Northern Illinois Food Bank piloted Family Fresh Mart, an initiative that complements federal nutrition programs by providing fresh produce and nutrition education to families in our service area each week. ~ CEU Specialty 8

Identify the need for Family Fresh Mart.
Examine the logistics of packing, delivery and distribution.
Hear about plans for program expansion.

Presented by:

Kendra Rees, Northern Illinois Food Bank

Jessica Willis, Northern Illinois Food Bank

Innovation at Its Best: Exploring the Possibilities of AmeriCorps

Serving our communities has never been more important. But too often, organizations have big ideas and not enough capacity to make them happen. What if AmeriCorps could help bridge that gap? From summer meal programs to additional programming, explore the possibilities of AmeriCorps and how it can help organizations expand their reach, strengthen their programs and meet emerging community needs. ~ CEU Specialty 8

Learn the basics of the AmeriCorps agency and how it works.
Identify common challenges and gaps in serving the community.
Understand how AmeriCorps can be utilized.

Presented by: Alicia Alton, Kids At Their Best

Launching Rural Non-Congregate Sites for Greater Impact

Rural Non-Congregate distributions are becoming more common. One Washington food bank grew from 36,000 to 120,000 meals in two seasons using drive-up distribution sites, strong partnerships, dedicated staff, and new technology. Consider what made this growth possible and whether RNC could work for your program. ~ CEU Specialty 8

Assess community strengths that support program success.
Evaluate technology solutions that streamline program operations.
Develop teamwork strategies to improve program effectiveness.

Presented by:

Gary Bye, FISH Food Bank

Elise Warren, FISH Food Bank

Speed Session: Low Cost and High Return: Scaling Rural SUN Meals To-Go

Have you run rural non-congregate summer meals but see room to grow? Or are you launching next summer and want to feel prepared? Explore cost-effective strategies, field-tested tips, and innovative serving models from the Carolina Hunger Initiative. See how sponsors use youth engagement, safety planning, technology, and partnerships to build safe, high-volume SUN Meals To-Go operations. ~ CEU Specialty 8

Leverage partnerships to support staffing, safety and operations.
Understand how technology can ease administrative burden.
Generate fresh and innovative ideas for SUN Meals To-Go.

Presented by:

Jana Saur, Carolina Hunger Initiative at UNC Chapel Hill

Thompson Bertschy, MSW, Carolina Hunger Initiative at UNC Chapel Hill

Non-Congregate Summer Meals: Lessons for Program Expansion

No Kid Hungry has helped communities launch and strengthen rural non-congregate summer meals through outreach, implementation support, technical assistance, and State agency partnerships since 2023. Examine findings, implementation experiences, State agency perspectives, and examples from across the country to better understand program models, implementation considerations, and opportunities for expansion. ~ CEU Specialty 8

Understand rural non-congregate program models and guidance.
Highlight successful rural non-congregate programs.
Apply tools for mapping, budgeting, outreach and grant planning.

Presented by: Brianna Guerrero, Share Our Strength | No Kid Hungry

Stop Packing Boxes, Start Building Programs

Rural non-congregate meal service is more than distributing food. It can strengthen community partnerships and expand year-round nutrition programs. Gain first-hand insights from launching and growing a rural summer meals program, including logistics, compliance, menu planning, and strategies that turn operational challenges into sustainable success. ~ CEU Specialty 8

Design a sustainable rural non-congregate program.
Recognize common compliance and operational pitfalls.
Build partnerships that last beyond summer.

Presented by: Brian Wieher, SNS, CCNP, Ujima Hunger Coalition

Strengthening Summer Meals Through Collaboration

Collaboration is the foundation for building and expanding sustainable summer meal programs. Oklahoma partners have used shared leadership, collective insight, and coordinated support to expand access through convenings, technical assistance, and knowledge-sharing. Learn how this collaborative model created meaningful impact and how other states can adapt it to strengthen their programs. ~ CEU Specialty 8

Identify approaches to building effective partnerships.
Explore strategies for providing technical assistance.
Discuss key lessons learned from building and sustaining statewide partnerships.

Presented by:

Alissa Snider, MPA, Hunger Free Oklahoma

Meegan Costner, The Chickasaw Nation

Colleen Almeida Smith, MPA, Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma

Speed Session: Turning Administrative Review Data into Effective Sponsor Training

Administrative reviews generate valuable data that can not only identify compliance issues but also serve as a roadmap for developing targeted, meaningful sponsor training. Learn how State agencies and summer meal sponsors can analyze review findings, identify recurring trends, prioritize training needs, and create data-driven training that strengthens compliance and promotes program improvement. ~ CEU Specialty 8

Analyze administrative review data to develop targeted training plans.
Transform administrative review data findings into meaningful sponsor training.
Explore strategies to drive continuous program improvement

Presented by: Tiffany Bedgood, MEd, Alabama State Department of Education Child Nutrition Program

Using Statewide Partnerships to Drive Summer Meals Promotion

Strategic promotion can turn awareness into action. Learn how Arizona aligns Summer Meals messaging, addresses misconceptions as opportunities for engagement, and activates local voices to build awareness. The Arizona Food Bank Network will share how a statewide workgroup brings partners together, coordinates outreach, and strengthens Summer Meals as a lasting tool for addressing hunger. ~ CEU Specialty 8

Leverage statewide resources to strengthen local impact.
Analyze common misconceptions to identify engagement opportunities.
Empower community voices to expand lasting reach.

Presented by: David Robinson, Arizona Food Bank Network

Afterschool Meals

Afterschool Meals for Stronger Youth Outcomes

Afterschool meals can be more than a way to put food on the table. They can support youth development, workforce readiness, and meaningful out-of-school time experiences. Connect meals with enrichment that engages youth, builds life and career skills, strengthens partnerships, and increases participation while maintaining compliance and maximizing funding. ~ CEU Specialty 4

Identify how to reframe meals as opportunities for youth engagement.
Explain how CACFP supports workforce readiness and youth development.
Develop strategies for creating sustainable community partnerships.

Presented by: Brett Haydin, Boys & Girls Clubs of America

Farm to Future: Afterschool Youth in Urban Agriculture

Chicago’s urban farms are growing more than food; they’re growing future food system leaders. Explore how After School Matters and its partners use hands-on urban agriculture experiences to build youth job and life skills, create career pathways, and strengthen the local food system. See what’s working and how these approaches can engage more young people in food systems. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Explore a case study on youth engagement in urban agriculture.
Learn how youth development and urban agriculture organizations can partner.
Discover urban agriculture’s role in addressing inequities in Chicago.

Presented by: Eboni Prince, MEd, After School Matters

Increasing Access and Revenue with Supper in the Classroom

Killeen ISD is using Supper in the Classroom to expand access to nutritious meals, boost participation, and strengthen its school nutrition program. CACFP reimbursement can generate additional revenue while ensuring students receive a complete meal before heading home. Take the lessons and ideas back to your program and turn supper into a success story of your own! ~ CEU Specialty 4

Assess opportunities to expand student access through supper programs.
Apply strategies to boost participation and generate revenue.
Evaluate lessons from Killeen ISD’s supper program.

Presented by:

Steve Smith, Killeen ISD

Lally Carbajal, Dairy MAX

Keeping Teens Connected Through Afterschool and Summer Programs

What does it take to get teens to show up, stay engaged, and come back? Learn how high-quality out-of-school time programming creates a strong foundation for successful afterschool and summer meal programs. Identify ways to connect with teens, strengthen community partnerships, create engaging experiences, and increase participation in ways that keep teens coming back. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Understand how high-quality programming reaches teens.
Explore how meals can attract and retain teens.
Build partnerships to expand reach and impact.

Presented by:

Clarissa Hayes, Food Research & Action Center (FRAC)

Stacey McDaniel, MS, YMCA-USA

Erik Peterson, MPA, Afterschool Alliance

Brett Haydin, Boys & Girls Clubs of America

Measuring Health Behavior Changes Among Pennsylvania Youth

Examine health-related behavior changes among Pennsylvania youth in grades 6–12 before and after participating in Penn State Extension’s Nutrition Links lessons. Findings focus on diet quality, food safety, food resource management, and physical activity, highlighting changes across these areas and identifying behaviors showing the greatest improvement. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Identify changes in health-related behaviors among Pennsylvania youth.
Describe changes across four key behavior areas.
Discuss which behaviors demonstrated the greatest improvements.

Presented by: Laurie Weinreb-Welch, MPH, Penn State Extension

No Money, No Problem: Reframing Resources for Your ARAS Program

What if the resources you need are already around you, but you just aren't seeing them? Challenge yourself to reframe scarcity, look beyond the budget and recognize the people, places, partnerships and assets already within your community for your afterschool program. Then put that thinking to the test in a fast paced team challenge designed to prove just how resourceful you really are. ~ CEU Specialty 4

Identify and leverage existing resources.
Activate community assets to expand possibilities.
Leverage people and partnerships to create solutions.

Presented by: Jodi Walker, Kids At Their Best

Program Administration & Operations

Beyond Paper: Modern Technology for Managing CACFP Programs

Technology is transforming how CACFP programs operate. Learn to use Google Workspace, electronic recordkeeping, online management platforms and AI tools to strengthen staff training, streamline monitoring, improve documentation and simplify compliance. Discover free solutions and ready-to-use workflows that reduce administrative burden while supporting successful CACFP afterschool program operations. ~ CEU Specialty 3

Explore digital tools that strengthen CACFP training.
Identify ways to streamline monitoring and compliance.
Understand how AI saves time while preserving accuracy.

Presented by: Courtney Lockridge, Impact LA, Inc.

Evaluating Menus for Meal Pattern Compliance

Are you a menu planner for CACFP? Do you know the CACFP meal patterns, but want a better way to document that your menu is in compliance with regulations? Learn how to use this State agency-developed menu assessment tool to check your existing menus against the required meal patterns. Watch the workbook change colors as you input your components and portion sizes. ~ CEU Specialty 3

Review the meal components and required portion sizes for ages 3-5.
Learn how to use Excel to document meal pattern compliance.
Identify areas where menu adjustments may be necessary.

Presented by: Brittany Coleman, MS, RD, LDN, Delaware Department of Education

Every Number Tells a Story: Data That Drives Quality

Discover how everyday CACFP practices like meal counts, attendance, responsive feeding, Civil Rights compliance and classroom observations can be transformed into meaningful data that drives continuous quality improvement. Through interactive activities and practical tools, learn how to use data to strengthen nutrition services, promote equity, and improve outcomes for children and families. ~ CEU Specialty 2

Explore how everyday CACFP data can drive quality improvement.
Create responsive mealtime experiences that support child development.
Integrate equity and Civil Rights practices in daily meal service.

Presented by: Paula Johnson, MA, Union Township Community Action Organization

Speed Session: Leading a Multi-Site CACFP Program: Lessons from the Field

Managing CACFP across multiple sites and states requires strong systems, effective leadership, and an understanding of varying state requirements. Explore effective approaches for overseeing kitchens and centers, strengthening teams, maintaining compliance across state lines, preparing for reviews, and solving real-world operational challenges. ~ CEU Specialty 4

Build consistent systems across multiple CACFP sites.
Strengthen compliance while empowering food service teams.
Learn to prepare for reviews and solve operational challenges.

Presented by: Evelyn Williams, CMP, Acelero Learning, Inc.

Modernizing CACFP Operations: Tools to Save Time & Reduce Errors

Discover practical ways to integrate technology into daily CACFP operations. Learn how digital tools, automation and AI can improve efficiency, enhance compliance, reduce administrative burden and support staff development. Gain real-world strategies and lessons learned from over 25 years of CACFP experience. ~ CEU Specialty 3

Identify how to streamline operations through technology.
Understand how technology strengthens compliance.
Learn to support staff success and organizational growth.

Presented by: Angela Johnson, CCNP, Child Care Resources, Inc.

Navigating Monitoring Challenges in Family Day Care Homes

Family daycare homes face unique challenges during CACFP monitoring visits. Review the most common issues providers experience, why they happen, and how sponsors can better support them. Learn to improve communication, reduce stress for providers, and strengthen overall compliance during visits. ~ CEU Specialty 4

Identify common documentation issues during monitoring visits.
Use corrective action to build confidence, not fear.
Manage challenging providers with consistency and support.

Presented by: Michelle Buchanan, CMP, CCNP, RBA, Community Action of Southeastern West Virginia

Zero Waste for Greater Community Impact

What began as a solution to kitchen waste grew into a strategy for expanding food access. See how existing food, staff capacity, production systems, and infrastructure can be used more intentionally to meet community needs while reducing waste. Real-world examples showcase ways to stretch resources and strengthen cross-program collaboration. ~ CEU Specialty 4

Develop innovative approaches to reduce waste and strengthen programs.
Identify untapped capacity within existing systems to expand food access.
Leverage cross-program collaboration to meet community needs creatively.

Presented by:

Evelyn Garcia, Lenox Hill Neighborhood House - Teaching Kitchen

Jacqueline Tris, Lenox Hill Neighborhood House - Teaching Kitchen

Management & Professional Development

Build High-Impact Nonprofit Boards

Strong boards don’t happen by accident; they are intentionally built, actively managed and continuously developed. Go beyond the basics of board governance to explore how nonprofit leaders can recruit the right board members, create meaningful engagement and ensure accountability. Leave with practical tools and a clear framework to strengthen board effectiveness. ~ CEU Specialty 6

Identify and recruit high-value board members.
Implement strategies to engage board members.
Use practical tools to strengthen board performance.

Presented by: Alexia Thex, MEd, National CACFP Association

Communicate with Confidence: Building Stronger Teams

Effective communication is the foundation of strong leadership. Explore strategies to build stronger teams through clear communication, improved collaboration and deeper understanding. Discover how shifting from a comfortable mindset to a growth mindset can help leaders embrace challenges, encourage learning and create a more positive, productive workplace. ~ CEU Specialty 6

Recognize the importance of effective team communication.
Apply clear communication strategies to strengthen team collaboration.
Use techniques to improve team interactions and understanding.

Presented by: Jessiica Howell, PhD, YES Prep Public Schools

The Emotional Labor of Caring: Supporting Ourselves and Others

Child care and nutrition professionals are often the first to notice when children, families and communities are struggling. This responsibility carries an invisible weight known as emotional labor. Left unaddressed, emotional labor can contribute to compassion fatigue, burnout and staff turnover. Learn strategies for maintaining your own well-being while continuing to serve others effectively. ~ CEU Specialty 6

Define emotional labor and recognize its impact.
Identify personal stressors and early warning signs of compassion fatigue.
Develop a personal resilience plan that supports long-term well-being.

Presented by: LaShonda Walker, A New Life Story Coaching

The Emotional Reset Formula: Prevent Burnout and Turnover

Burnout doesn't happen overnight. It builds quietly through chronic stress, emotional overload and constant pressure. Discover the PEACE™ Emotional Reset Formula, a proven framework designed to help child nutrition professionals recognize burnout warning signs, manage stress, build resilience and foster healthier workplace cultures that support well-being and retention. ~ CEU Specialty 6

Identify burnout warning signs before burnout impacts retention.
Practice emotional reset tools for stressful situations.
Learn how to create a workplace culture that supports resilience.

Presented by: Donna Davis, MA, D W Davis Consulting, LLC

Microlearning that Makes Cents

Do you think effective training requires a classroom, a slide deck, and hours away from the job? Think again! A simple, no-cost training process can turn everyday moments into focused learning opportunities. Learn the basics of microlearning, when it works best, and how to build a 15-minute lesson staff can apply right away. ~ CEU Specialty 3

Define microlearning and the appropriate topics.
Describe a 5-step process to plan a training.
Create a 10-15 minute microlearning lesson using the process.

Presented by: Stephanie Parrott, MS, Texas Department of Agriculture

Present and Powerful: Building Resilient Teams That Stay

Child nutrition professionals face increasing demands, staffing shortages and emotional fatigue. Learn practical strategies to strengthen resilience, improve team culture and reduce burnout using the PRESENCE leadership framework. Explore best practices to create healthier workplaces where employees feel valued, supported and motivated to stay. ~ CEU Specialty 6

Recognize the hidden costs of burnout and disengagement.
Learn how to apply practical resilience tools for daily leadership.
Understand how to build a culture that strengthens retention and performance.

Presented by: Donna Davis, MA, D W Davis Consulting, LLC

Refilling Your Cup: Understanding and Preventing Burnout

Early childhood educators invest deeply in their work, often in ways that make burnout hard to recognize until it becomes overwhelming. Reconnect with purpose by examining the “why” behind your work, the science of stress and practical routines that support renewal. Through reflection, discussion and mindfulness practice, you will leave empowered and re-energized. ~ CEU Specialty 6

Recognize the signs of burnout before the cup runs empty.
Understand why burnout happens.
Identify sustainable strategies to refill your cup.

Presented by: Tracy Cheney, MEd, Three Cheers Consulting with TLC

Setbacks to Steppingstones: When Life Throws Curveballs

Life throws curveballs, but resilience helps us keep moving forward. Consider three areas of resilience: My Choices, Your Choices and Things Out of Our Control. Learn how to navigate unexpected challenges, turn setbacks into steppingstones and use difficult experiences to shape positive life lessons. Discover how resilience can help you move from surviving to thriving. ~ CEU Specialty 6

Understand that we all face challenges and you’re not alone.
Recognize the need for support and understanding.
Build hope and resilience to bounce back from setbacks.

Presented by: Dee Hankins, Dee Hankins Inc.

Welcome to the Jungle: People, Teams and CACFP Success

The CACFP brings its own set of challenges, but navigating the people side of the program can be a jungle of its own. Understanding your personality type and those of your team can transform communication and strengthen collaboration. Using the W2J Four Animal Framework, discover how to turn differences into strengths and build teams that create CACFP success. ~ CEU Specialty 6

Use behavioral insights to strengthen team and CACFP outcomes.
Understand how your personality impacts your team.
Learn to speak the language of different "animal" types.

Presented by: DeAndre M. Riley, MA, Growing Minds Learning Center

Financial Management

Administrative Review Preparedness for Sponsors

Every three years, it is inevitable that your administrative review will pop up. Are you ready for it? Prepare yourself and your site with insights, real-life examples and shared experiences from others who have been through the process. Explore key review areas, from child classification and documentation, to program funds and everything in between. ~ CEU Specialty 5

Understand reimbursement calculations and administrative review requirements.
Develop strategies to prepare for a smoother administrative review process.
Apply lessons learned from previous administrative reviews.

Presented by:

Colin Diamond, Myers and Stauffer

Clay Hardin, Myers and Stauffer

Kimberly Usher, Myers and Stauffer LC

Administrative Review: Financial Management for Sponsors

Financial management is an important factor to successful implementation of the CACFP and SFSP. Should the sponsor’s financial management process be proactive or reactionary? Hear insights from administrative review examiners as they share key lessons and offer practical recommendations to help sponsors strengthen their financial management practices for long-term success. ~ CEU Specialty 5

Establish an effective financial management process.
Apply best practices from administrative review findings.
Explore real examples from past administrative reviews.

Presented by:

Colin Diamond, Myers and Stauffer

Clay Hardin, Myers and Stauffer

Developing Better Budgets in the CACFP

A strong budget is more than a financial requirement; it’s a roadmap for program success. Explore CACFP budget best practices, including planning, cost allocation, expense monitoring and building budgets that support compliance, sustainability and growth. Turn your budget into a tool for stronger programs and greater impact. ~ CEU Specialty 5

Create realistic CACFP budgets aligned with program goals.
Apply cost allocation practices that support compliance.
Evaluate budget performance to identify potential findings.

Presented by: Carrie Murphy, CMP, Provider's Network, Inc.

Navigating Specific Prior Written Approvals for Budget Items

Are you new to the CACFP or looking for a way to up your game when it comes to Specific Prior Written Approvals (SPWA)? Get a comprehensive overview of the process including insight on the requirements, steps for compliance, and best practices for tracking and reporting. Extend your knowledge to ensure adherence to the budgetary regulations for your purchased items or services. ~ CEU Specialty 2

Understand the necessity of SPWAs and documentation accuracy.
Learn criteria and thresholds triggering the need for SPWAs.
Receive training tips and practical solutions for resolving SPWA issues.

Presented by:

June Bryant, CMP, CCNP, Southwest Human Development Services

Blake Stanford, CMP, Southwest Human Development Services

Preventing Fraud Before It Happens

The strongest fraud prevention strategies begin long before an investigation. Through a real-world case study, discover how Oklahoma strengthened CACFP program integrity by modernizing operational processes, improving oversight, and reducing administrative burden. Apply lessons from Oklahoma’s shift to digital operations to improve processes in your own organization. ~ CEU Specialty 5

Identify operational risks before they become compliance issues.
Learn strategies to strengthen program integrity.
Explore lessons from Oklahoma’s modernization journey.

Presented by:

Kassi Reddell, MS, Program Manager, Oklahoma State Department of Education

Randy Gipson-Black, J.D., Oklahoma State Department of Education

Jordan Berkstresser, KidKare by Minute Menu

Jennifer Weber, MS, Oklahoma State Department of Education

Red Flags to Resolution in the CACFP: Lessons from an Investigation

In late 2024, the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce (DEW) received an anonymous tip simply stating, “a sponsor is claiming meals that aren’t being served to children; check it out.” The months-long investigation led to sponsor termination, substantial claim recovery and an extensive redesign of DEW’s investigation and data assessment process for identifying false and fraudulent claims. ~ CEU Specialty 5

Analyze CACFP data to identify trends and red flags.
Evaluate data for indicators of fraudulent claims.
Examine Ohio’s approach to investigating program concerns.

Presented by:

Brigette Hires, PhD, Ohio Department of Education and Workforce

Kimberly Hettel, MS, Ohio Department of Education and Workforce

Erin Bagley, MPA, Ohio Department of Education and Workforce

Policy & Advocacy

Beyond the Meal Count: Helping Children and Families Thrive

Ending child hunger requires more than food alone. Understanding the challenges families face can help nutrition providers and community partners reduce barriers, strengthen support systems, and create conditions where children can thrive. Examine common obstacles and consider ways organizations can work together to expand support beyond the meal. ~ CEU Specialty 7

Recognize the challenges that affect families beyond food access.
Discover approaches for reducing barriers that impact children.
Explore ways community networks can better support child well-being.

Presented by: Tamara Sandberg, MS, US Mission Impact, Feed the Children

Championing Change with CACFP Advocacy

Do you want to advocate for your program or those you serve, but don't know where to begin? Being an "advocate" can sound daunting or difficult, but it doesn't have to be! Learn how to get started and receive resources to help you along the way. Plus, hear stories from your peers about their experience advocating for the CACFP. ~ CEU Specialty 7

Understand what advocacy is and how to engage in it.
Hear stories from CACFP advocates about their experience.
Create your own advocacy plan and take action.

Presented by: McKenzie Brunner, MGPS, National CACFP Association

Compliance and Special Diets in the CACFP

What is required for a child with a food allergy or special diet need? Come and learn how to best support the needs of the child while balancing program regulations. Review real-world examples with solutions and lists of creditable foods, tools and resources while maintaining compliance with civil rights. ~ CEU Specialty 7

Identify the basic requirements for civil rights and special diets.
Get documents, forms and nutrition education resources.
Discover how other sponsors/programs are managing special diets.

Presented by: Kate Abernathy, MS, RDN, LD, CMP, CCNP, Providers Choice

State Agency Strategies to Uplift the CACFP

There are many common and innovative strategies for promoting and expanding access to the CACFP. With a core mission of the program being to ensure nutritious meals to as many children and adults as possible, implementing successful strategies at the State level can help get meals to those who need it most. Hear from a panel of State Agencies about the strategies they implement to uplift the CACFP in their State. ~ CEU Specialty 7

Understand the importance of expanding access to the CACFP.
Learn State agency best practices.
Determine what strategies could be helpful in your state.

Presented by: McKenzie Brunner, MGPS, National CACFP Association

Research & Resources

A New Baseline: Nutrition and Physical Activity Best Practices

New research offers a closer look at nutrition and physical activity practices across Illinois early childhood education settings. Compare how programs measure up against best practices based on Child and Adult Care Food Program status and Head Start status. Identify key differences between center-based and family child care settings. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Recognize nutrition and physical activity practices across Illinois ECE.
Examine differences between centers, homes, CACFP, and non-CACFP.
Consider differences between Head Start and non-Head Start programs.

Presented by:

Jamie F. Chriqui, PhD, University of Illinois Chicago

Julien Leider, MA, University of Illinois Chicago

Rebecca Schermbeck, MS, MPH, RD, University of Illinois Chicago

CACFP to Whole Child: Braided Funding to Boost Impact

CACFP sponsors can strengthen program impact by leveraging multiple funding streams, partnerships, and resources that support the whole child and family. Quality Care for Children shares how they combined CACFP, Farm to ECE, public benefits access, nutrition education, and philanthropic funding to expand services, build organizational capacity, and improve outcomes for providers, children, and families. ~ CEU Specialty 5

Leverage braided funding to expand CACFP services.
Build partnerships that increase organizational capacity.
Support whole-child outcomes through CACFP programs.

Presented by:

Reynaldo Green, Quality Care for Children, Inc.

Caitlin Vadini, CMP, CCNP, Quality Care for Children, Inc.

Digital Marketing of Ultra-Processed Foods to Children

Children and adolescents are exposed to ultra-processed food marketing every time they scroll, watch or play online. Explore how influencers, advergames and branded content shape food choices. Compare policies from around the world, identify current gaps and discuss practical approaches to strengthen protections for young people in digital spaces. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Identify digital UPF marketing strategies targeting youths.
Compare global policies regulating food marketing.
Recognize gaps in protections for children online.

Presented by: Aline Botelho Kobayashi, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Early Relational Health Builds Healthy Child Development

Early relational health (ERH) is a strength-based framework focusing on safe, stable, and nurturing relationships between young children and caregivers. Social-emotional learning skills are foundational to supporting children’s ERH experiences. Review evidence-based strategies that help early care and education professionals foster and nurture young children’s early relational health. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Understand safe, stable and nurturing relationships (SSNRs).
Define the five core competencies of social-emotional learning.
Discover toolkits and learning opportunities to support ERH.

Presented by: Julia Gest, MEd, Penn State Extension Better Kid Care

Eat, Play, Learn: Nutrition Education Through Play-Based Learning

Nutrition education can be so much more than talking about healthy foods. Connect play-based learning to nutrition concepts through everyday experiences that support curiosity, language development, sensory exploration, and learning. Discover developmentally appropriate strategies for weaving nutrition into play, routines, and hands-on experiences that are more meaningful, engaging and fun. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Introduce nutrition concepts through play and everyday experiences.
Learn to use food-based play to build language, sensory skills and curiosity.
Receive resources to make nutrition education practical and engaging.

Presented by:

Erica Hobby, MSW, Novick Childcare Solutions

Erinn Rinn, Novick Childcare Solutions

Extending Nutrition Education from the Classroom to Home

Nutrition education is most effective when children experience healthy eating in multiple environments, including early care settings and at home. Explore gardening projects, taste-testing activities, family nutrition challenges, culturally inclusive nutrition education, and take-home resources that encourage continued learning outside the classroom for the whole family. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Implement developmentally appropriate nutrition education strategies.
Develop family engagement initiatives that can be practiced at home.
Create a sustainable garden-based nutrition education plan.

Presented by: Emily Morgan, MS, RDN, CCNP, Child Parent Centers

Food Buying Guide on the Go

Discover how the USDA Food Buying Guide (FBG) App can simplify CACFP menu planning and meal pattern compliance. Navigate through the app and use the essential tools: Food Items, Yield Tables, Favorites, the FBG Calculator, Exhibit A Grains Tool, and the Recipe Analysis Worksheet. Come with the app downloaded on your phone! ~ CEU Specialty 3

Learn to navigate the Food Buying Guide App and locate resources.
Determine food component contributions and estimate serving yields for planned menus with App features.
Explore the Exhibit A Grains Tool to identify creditable grain products.

Presented by: Melinda Nguyen, MS, RDN, LD, National CACFP Association

From Package to Plate: Children’s Environmental Health

Plastic is everywhere! But did you know that plastic packaging and dishware may contain chemicals that can migrate into food? These hazards can hide in plain sight, and children are especially susceptible to the negative health effects. The good news is that there are easy ways to reduce exposure. Join us to learn how these exposures happen, what they mean for children’s health and how to reduce risk. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Understand children’s environmental health as a core tenet of health and safety.
Discover how BPA, PVC and Styrofoam leach chemicals into common foods.
Identify plastic items with harmful chemicals and safer swaps.

Presented by: Elisabeth Repp, MHS, Children's Environmental Health Network

Happy and Healthy with Sesame Street

Bring a little Sesame Street magic to healthy habits! Explore new resources featuring Elmo and his friends that help providers and families make nutrition, movement, and sleep fun and achievable. Discover engaging tools, from videos to family materials, that strengthen connections, support healthy routines, and bring learning to life for children and caregivers. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Explore Sesame Street resources that support healthy habits.
Build stronger family-provider relationships through connection.
Apply engaging resources to real-world healthcare scenarios.

Presented by: Antonio Freitas, MST, Sesame Workshop

Speed Session: Look, Cook, Learn! Exploring New Foods with Rusty’s Cooking Club

Are you looking for easy ways to engage young children in trying new foods? Discover Rusty’s Cooking Club, a free online resource for providers, teachers, and families. Monthly packets include Look and Cook recipes, nutrition tips, movement breaks, and other hands-on activities. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Recognize the key components of Rusty’s Cooking Club.
Implement Rusty’s Cooking Club in early care and education settings.
Identify how Rusty’s Cooking Club can be used by families.

Presented by: Mary Schroeder, MPH, RDN, University of Minnesota Extension

Speed Session: Mapping Tools for Food Resource Coordination

Across Fairfax County, food assistance programs often operate in silos, making it difficult to see available resources and gaps. Discover an interactive Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping tool that helps residents locate nearby food resources while enabling program staff to layer resource locations with transportation data, identify underserved areas and inform evidence-based planning. ~ CEU Specialty 4

Understand how the food resource map was developed.
Examine how one tool can serve residents and providers.
Apply lessons for keeping food resource data current.

Presented by:

Alisa Brooks, Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services

Brian Alexander, YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina

Navigating Dairy Options Within the New Nutrition Standards

The 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans have introduced updates that are shaping CACFP nutrition standards, including greater flexibility in dairy choices. Child care professionals need guidance to confidently incorporate them into meal planning. Review the science behind updated dairy recommendations, distinguish milk allergy from lactose intolerance, and discuss evidence-based dietary management. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Explain the science behind updated dairy recommendations.
Educate parents and providers on flexible dairy fat choices.
Apply evidence-based strategies for dairy in CACFP meal patterns.

Presented by: Toby Amidor, MS, RD, Toby Amidor Nutrition, PC

Turning Participant Feedback into Better CACFP Menus

Strong menus start with listening to the people they serve. Examine how the Army’s Child and Youth Services (CYS) Healthy Menu Initiative used needs assessment findings and participant feedback to improve menus, standardized recipes, production tools, nutritional analysis, and training. Apply a transferable process for turning evidence into realistic recommendations. ~ CEU Specialty 2

Apply needs assessment findings to guide menu change decisions.
Connect participant feedback with operational realities.
Develop feasible proposals for menu modifications based on findings.

Presented by:

Paola Paez, PhD, MS, Kansas State University

Kelly Whitehair, PhD, RDN, LD, Kansas State University

Using Provider Surveys to Drive CACFP Success

Provider feedback can be a powerful tool for strengthening CACFP operations and expanding supportive services. See how one CACFP sponsor used a statewide provider participation survey to identify emerging needs, improve training and communication, enhance technology supports, and inform family engagement strategies. ~ CEU Specialty 2

Design surveys that produce actionable provider feedback.
Analyze results to identify operational priorities.
Transform provider voices into program improvements.

Presented by:

Reynaldo Green, Quality Care for Children, Inc.

Caitlin Vadini, CMP, CCNP, Quality Care for Children, Inc.

K-12 Nutrition Programs

Leveraging Food Education to Promote Positive Youth Development

Telling youth what to eat rarely creates lasting habits, but experiencing food does. Using Sustainable Nutrition And Community Connection (SNACC) as a real-world case study, examine how hands-on culinary engagement builds self-efficacy, problem-solving, and teamwork. Review SNACC’s outcomes and data, then re-engineer everyday learning routines into opportunities that foster youth development. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Apply youth development principles to food-based learning.
Adapt SNACC strategies to build youth skills and agency.
Measure confidence, decision-making and self-reliance alongside nutrition.

Presented by: Danielle Cohen, MPH, SNACC Program

Taste Test to Tray: Student-Led Innovation in School Meals

Move beyond one-off taste tests and build student voice into daily food-service operations. Using DREAM Charter Schools’ scratch-cooking program as a case study, participants will learn a five-step process to collect ideas, test recipes, gather structured feedback, verify meal-pattern compliance, pilot in real service, and scale dishes that earn student trust and participation. ~ CEU Specialty 1

Build continuous student and family feedback loops.
Apply a five-step recipe co-design framework.
Pilot, measure and scale menu changes with confidence.

Presented by: Raymie Fernandez, MS, DREAM Charter School

Turn USDA Foods into Crave-able School Meals One Can at a Time

Turn USDA Foods into craveable, student-approved meals with actionable speed-scratch strategies from K-12 culinary and nutrition leaders. Explore the field-to-can story, canned fruit research, staff training tools, and a live afterschool meal demonstration. Save on labor, time, and budgets with scalable recipes and ideas. ~ CEU Specialty 2

Create speed-scratch menu items using USDA Foods.
Identify nutrition, quality and cost benefits of canned produce.
Apply scalable recipes and staff training strategies.

Presented by:

Kevin Jenkins, Garland ISD; Flick of the Whisk

Jason Tepper, Alexandria City Public Schools

Bettina Applewhite, MS, RD, SNS, Applewhite Nutrition

Commercial

Speed Session: CACFP Training Program and Nutrition Calendar

Where else can you find nutrition information, CACFP best practices, crafts, activities, business tips, training modules, parent connection letters, curriculum, and record-keeping in one place? NCA's Nutrition Calendar and Training Program offers it all for providers, centers, and after school sites. Get the 56-page calendar and record-keeping system and 5-hour training in bulk for under $5 per provider!

Learn how to use the calendar materials to support your program.
Get inspired on how to implement the activities and training.
Find out why over 35,000 providers across the country consider this their #1 CACFP resource.

Blair Munday, National CACFP Association

Health-e Pro: Your CACFP Superpower

Running a CACFP program can feel like a job for superheroes. Health-e Pro can be your secret superpower, helping save time and money, reduce waste, simplify compliance, and streamline everyday planning. Get an up-close look at Health-e Pro tools and new AI-powered features designed to make CACFP management easier and more efficient.

Analyze CACFP challenges and optimize daily workflows.
Apply forecasting techniques to save time and reduce waste.
Evaluate compliance practices using audit-ready documentation.

Presented by: Megan Claysen, MS, RD, LDN, Health-e Pro

KidKare: One Connected Platform for Child Care Organizations

For more than 30 years KidKare has helped child care organizations simplify CACFP management and maximize reimbursements. Its connected platform brings enrollment, attendance, billing, compliance, training, licensing, analytics, and AI-powered insights together. Experience a live demo and see how integrated tools can reduce administrative burden, improve visibility, and save time.

Strengthen CACFP compliance, claims, reimbursements and oversight.
Connect enrollment, attendance, billing, compliance and reporting.
Leverage analytics and AI to improve visibility and efficiency.

Presented by: Danielle Jones, KidKare by Minute Menu

Transforming Preschool Mealtimes with Local Love Lunch

Preschool mealtime can nourish more than growing bodies. It can build belonging, spark learning and connect children with food, culture and community. Learn how Local Love Lunch transforms everyday meals into meaningful experiences through ready-to-use membership resources and customized consulting support. Explore the model, view a real experience and identify the right path for your program.