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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.

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USDA and HHS Notice: CNPs and Head Start as Federal Public Benefit

USDA and HHS each released a notice stating that many programs under the jurisdiction of both departments are now interpreted as “Federal Public Benefits,” including all CNPs and Head Start. The notices aim to address whether citizenship or qualified immigration status must be verified in order for a child to participate in these federal programs.

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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.

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Coming Up! Farm to CACFP Events

Farm to CACFP connects providers to local food producers with the objectives of serving locally-grown foods and providing nutrition education. Check out these upcoming events at NCA!

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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.

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USDA Rescinds Guidance on Interpretation of Discrimination Based on Sex 

The USDA released a memorandum rescinding 2022 guidance regarding the interpretation of discrimination based on “sex.” The 2022 guidance redefined the definition of “sex” to include gender identity and sexual orientation. Therefore, the rescission of this guidance will revert USDA’s definition back to its previous interpretation and omit mention of gender identity and sexual orientation.

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Nutrition Myths

Our partners at the Dr. Yum Project tackle some of the most common and confusing nutrition myths for you and your family.

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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!

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Off-Site Monitoring in FY25

USDA has the authority to waive statutory or regulatory program requirements for Child Nutrition Programs. State Agencies can submit a 12(l) waiver application to USDA in order to allow for flexibilities, including off-site monitoring, in their state. In Fiscal Year 2025, at least nine States have applied and been approved for an off-site monitoring waiver.

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