2026 Farm to CACFP

Bring the garden to the classroom and watch nutrition come alive! Implementing a garden-based nutrition curriculum in early childhood education is an excellent complement to the CACFP. Identify key qualities of effective garden-based nutrition curricula, review the evidence and benefits, tackle common challenges and discuss how CACFP sponsor organizations can introduce these programs at their sites.

Children love to play in dirt, so let’s make it purposeful! Gardening helps children learn about food origins, science, bugs, weather, exploration and more. As they nurture plants, they also learn to nurture themselves and enjoy the fruits of their work. By turning play into learning, we help children grow healthy habits and a lifelong love for nature.

Farm to Early Care and Education (ECE) increases young children’s access to local produce, food and agriculture education, and hands-on learning. Dive into engaging, easy-to-use resources for each of the Farm to ECE pillars, plus support offered by national partners. Learn how Farm to ECE sparks lifelong healthy habits and get the tools you need to kickstart or grow your program!

The Children’s Farmers Market connects young children and families to fresh, local foods through hands-on learning. This model promotes nutrition, cultural identity and wellness while engaging families and strengthening community partnerships. Explore how to implement or adapt this program in your own setting.

Interested in purchasing local foods but unsure where to start? Explore local procurement methods and how to choose the route that best fits your program. Learn how the CACFP supports local purchasing, including incorporating garden-grown or donated produce. Gain the confidence to take the next step in your local food journey!

If obstacles were not in your way, what would your dream Farm to CACFP look like? Hear a farmer’s perspective about Nebraska’s programs to spur discussion and generate new ideas about what your ideal Farm to CACFP looks like. Join in with fun hands-on activities to spur your creative side. Come inspire and be inspired as we collectively dream what we want to achieve!

Let’s grow healthy habits from garden to plate! Farm to Early Care and Education (ECE) promotes healthy eating in child care through gardening, nutrition education and local food purchasing. Explore evidence-based strategies, hands-on activities and funding options to start or strengthen your Farm to ECE program and create an action plan to implement your ideas.