2024 Policy

Do you know where your state stands on obesity prevention policies in early care and education? Achieving a State of Healthy Weight (ASHW) examines the strength of obesity prevention rules in national childcare licensing. Learn about ASHW and its focus on policy and practice improvements for policymakers and ECE stakeholders to support national nutrition standards.

Learn how your state’s ECE system can promote participation in the CACFP through policies and activities, such as licensing regulations and recognition programs. Review data from the CDC’s updated ECE State Indicator Report (2023) and the Spectrum of Opportunities, which can be used to identify existing policies and activities that advance the CACFP.

The effects of a changing climate can cause food insecurity, worsen safe drinking water, alter the nutrient quality in food, and make it harder to access adequate nutrition equitably. Children’s vulnerability to climate change means we must increase climate awareness to support their healthy development now and in the future.

Both licensed and approved family child care home providers are permitted to participate in the CACFP. This flexibility allows more providers to join the food program ensuring children have access to healthy foods. Does your state have an approval process for non-licensed providers? Learn what the approval process can look like in practice to better serve your community.

Do you want to advocate for your program, but are unsure where to begin? Learn why we advocate for the CACFP and how to get started. Get tools and templates to make a plan so you can take action and make your voice heard.

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.