Posts Tagged ‘child care’
Follow and Stretch Brain Builders
There’s one word that likely comes to mind when you think of toddlers: WHY? Why is the sky blue? Why do we brush our teeth? Why do I have to go to sleep? Constantly asking “why?” is a sign your child’s brain is growing! They are curious and want to learn all about the world around them. Vroom can help you make the most of the whys through the Brain Building Basics of Follow and Stretch.
Read MoreGluten-Free Diets
The gluten-free diet has generated a lot of attention in recent years, with some praising its benefits. However, for people who cannot eat gluten due to medical reasons, such as celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, this diet is not a choice but a necessity. Our Partners at the Institute of Child Nutrition defines gluten and how it affects certain individuals, lists foods containing gluten, identifies gluten-free foods, and reviews how to accommodate children who require a gluten-free diet.
Read MoreWhite House Releases Make Our Children Healthy Again Strategy
On September 9, 2025, the White House released the Make Our Children Healthy Again Strategy Report which outlines actions of the executive branch to address the childhood chronic disease crisis.
Read MoreSeptember Virtual Events
Get a rundown on all things happening at NCA this month!
Read MoreRace to Readiness
Our Partners at Read Aloud 15 Minutes launched a “Race to Readiness” campaign. Inspired by race cars and the goal of 500 minutes of reading aloud, this campaign is designed to help prepare kids for a successful future.
Read More2025-2026 Cash In Lieu Value
The USDA has released the cash-in-lieu value of USDA foods for 2025-2026. The value has increased by half a cent.
Read MoreOutdoor Learning
Whether it’s a walk around the block, a moment in the park, or simply looking out the window, these activities from our partners at Sesame Street in Communities are easy to integrate into daily routines. Together, families and providers can help children notice, wonder, and grow—one outdoor moment at a time.
Read MoreStaying Hydrated in the Summer
Summer is well underway! To prepare children for the heat, ensure drinking water is available and offer it throughout the day as they engage in outdoor playtime. Our partners at the Institute of Child Nutrition provide benefits of drinking water, recommendations for water intake, signs of dehydration, and drinks to avoid.
Read MoreAdvocate for Sufficient CACFP Reimbursement
USDA published the CACFP reimbursement rates for fiscal year 2025-2026. Although the rates have increased, in most instances, reimbursement still remains too low for providers to sufficiently cover the cost of providing meals.
Read MoreAccess NCA Nutrition Education with Head Start Supplemental Funds
Exciting news! Head Start programs have an opportunity to access one-time supplemental funds to support nutrition services and healthy eating for enrolled children and families. You can use this funding for staff training on resources and educational opportunities to help your program improve outcomes for children and families and align with USDA requirements – like the CACFP!
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