Read Aloud Tips for Babies and Toddlers
Research shows that reading aloud with children is the single most important thing you can do to prepare a child for reading and learning. Our partners at Read Aloud 15 Minutes national campaign promotes parents and caregivers reading aloud to their children at least 15 minutes every day starting at birth.
Food and Play Brain Builders
We know summer is a busy time for families and caregivers. Good news is that brain building doesn’t require any extra time, money, or stuff. It fits into what you already do. Mealtime is a great time to teach children skills like listening, problem solving, focus, and more! Our partners at Vroom have some great food and play brain builders for you to use.
Updated CACFP Resources
Team Nutrition updated the following training resources for the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). These resources provide CACFP operators with strategies to encourage healthy choices and healthy outcomes for their participants.
Reducing Screen Time
Unsurprisingly, people spend hours each day in front of screens, whether on computers, TVs, tablets, gaming systems, or smartphones. While media use can be a valuable source of learning and entertainment, excessive screen time can have negative effects. Our partners at the Institute of Child Nutrition explore the risks of too much screen time, provide recommendations, tips for limiting usage, and sample policy ideas for programs.
Nutrition Myths
Our partners at the Dr. Yum Project tackle some of the most common and confusing nutrition myths for you and your family.
Cooking Fun for Families
Preparing their own food can help children and teens learn about nutrition, practice meal planning, get to know other cultures, and build basic math skills. It also encourages creativity and independence. Our partners at Alliance for a Healthier Generation have resources to help families cook safely and confidently with these kid-friendly cooking tips!
Identifying Gluten-Free Foods
Learn how to identify gluten-free foods and get a yummy gluten-free snack recipe.
Supporting Families Through Emergencies
Our partners at Sesame Street in Communities have developed resources to support community providers and caregivers who serve families and help children face challenges, big and small. When a natural disaster strikes, caregivers and providers look for the right thing to say or do.
Cooking with Herbs and Spices
Incorporating herbs and spices into recipes enhances flavor, aroma, and color while reducing the need for excess salt, sugar, and fat. Our partners at the Institute of Child Nutrition define herbs and spices, reviews the health benefits of using fresh or dried herbs and spices, and provides ideas for incorporating them into recipes.
Spark Curiosity
Curiosity is the key to learning. When you encourage children to ask lots of questions, you’re helping them build their natural curiosity and think like scientists. Our partners at Sesame Street in Communities have great resources to help you encourage curiosity with those in your care.