2009 Mealtime Memo2009-12: Special Diets - Where Do We Start?Learn about special diet requests, food allergies, and food texture modification. Try the Pumpkin Pudding B-07 recipe from USDA Recipes for Child Care.
View or Download2009-11: Helping Children Develop Healthy Eating HabitsThis issue features healthy eating tips for parents and ways to get children involved with food. Also included are a list of children's books about food and eating. Recipe for Tiny Meat Loaves D-04C and a week's worth of breakfast, lunch, and snack menus.
View or Download2009-10: How to Follow a Picture RecipeChildren will learn to follow a picture recipe. Along with food preparation, they will learn math, food safety, sequencing, and pre-reading skills. A week's worth of breakfast, lunch and snack menus.
View or Download2009-09: Cooking with Children: Little Red Hen BreadLearn to integrate cooking activities with the children's story, The Little Red Hen. Recipe for Oven-Baked Whole Wheat Pancakes-A-06A. A week's worth of breakfast, lunch, and snack menus.
View or Download2009-08: USDA’s Food Buying Guide for Child Nutrition ProgramsThis issue of Mealtime Memo focuses on using the Fruit and Vegetable section of the Food Buying Guide.
View or Download2009-07: Emergency PreparednessThis issue focuses on being ready to deal with the unexpected. Steps to write an emergency preparedness plan. Write a contact list. Planning emergency menus. Includes sample emergency menus for breakfast, lunch, and snack, with tips for preparing emergency meals.
View or Download2009-06: Timesaving Tips for MealtimeLearn tips such as: Cook Once, Serve Twice, Keep Recipe Amounts in Reserve, and Put Convenience Foods to Work. A week's worth of breakfast, lunch, and snack menus.
View or Download2009-05: How to Use Mealtime Memos for TrainingLearn how Mealtime Memo can be a valuable training resource for child care programs. Recipe for Macaroni and Ham Salad E10A.
View or Download2009-04: How Does Your Garden Grow?Learn tips from the experts on successful gardening with young children. Activities and a list of books about gardening are included. Eat your garden harvest with the recipe for Dip for Fresh Vegetables E-15.
View or Download2009-03: Using Cycle Menus to Control Food CostsLearn the advantages of cycle menus in child care. Recipe for Corn Chowder H-03. A week's worth of breakfast, lunch and snack menus.
View or Download2009-02: Production Records: A Tool to UseProduction Records are featured with a step-by-step guide on how to fill them out. A week's worth of breakfast, lunch and snack menus are included.
View or Download2009-01: Memorable Mealtimes: Putting it all TogetherAs adults, we set expectations and tone of the mealtime. Learn how to make mealtimes the highpoint of the day for both us and the children in our care. Recipe for Vegetable Chili D-26.
View or Download2008 Mealtime Memo2008:12 - Healthy Children Are ActivePhysical activity for children is the theme for the December issue. MyPyramid for Preschoolers recommends 60 minutes of activity each day. Physical activity ideas for child care and recommended books for children related to physical activity are featured. Recipe for Pizza with Ground Beef Topping D-23 and a week's worth of breakfast, lunch and snack menus.
View or Download2008-11: Teaching Children about the Food Groups: Milk and Milk ProductsMilk and milk products are featured in this issue. Activities include a Cheese Tasting Party and making fruit smoothies with the children. Recipes - Strawberry Banana Smoothie and Broccoli Cheese Soup H-05. A week's worth breakfast, lunch, and snack menus.
View or Download2008-10: Teaching Children about the Food Groups: Meat and Meat AlternatesThis issue highlights teaching children about meat and meat alternates. Tips on using the meat alternate beans. Fun food activity. Recipe for Beef or Pork Burrito D-21. A week's worth of breakfast, lunch and snack menus.
View or Download2008-09: Teaching Children about the Food Groups: VegetablesThe vegetable food group is featured. Activities. Recipe for Minestrone Soup H-12. A week's worth of breakfast, lunch and snack menus.
View or Download2008-08 Teaching Children About the Food Groups: FruitsThis issue describes nutrition education activities you can use to teach children about the fruit food group. Recipe: Cherry Crisp B-10. A week's menus for all 3 reimburseable meals.
View or Download2008-07: Plant an Indoor GardenLearn to plant an indoor gardent. Seed activity. Recipe for Beef or Pork Taco. A week's worth of breakfast, lunch and snack menus.
View or Download2008-06: Dental Health for Young ChildrenTeach children about the importance of caring for their teeth. Foods that help keep teeth healthy. Education activity. Recipe: Bean Dip G-02. A week's snack menus.
View or Download2008-05: Adjusting RecipesThe USDA Recipes for Child Care are written for servings of 25 or 50; for a smaller or larger yield, follow these simple formulas to adjust the recipe. Changing Fractions to Decimals, Changing Ounces to Pounds, Adjusting the Recipe Based on Needed Yield, Multipy All Ingredients by a Factor, Banana Muffins A-04 recipe
View or Download2008-04: Teaching Children about Food Groups: Grains/BreadsThis issue teaches children about the grains/bread food group. Recipe: Baked Whole Wheat Doughnuts A-07. A week's lunch menus.
View or Download2008-03: Drinking Water for Good HealthChildren learn why water is a healthy way to quench their thirst. Education activity. Recipe: Molded Fruit Salad E-01. A week's snack menus.
View or Download2008-02 Creative Menu PlanningChildren enjoy positive experiences with healthy foods. Menu planning and connecting menus to classroom activities are featured. A week's breakfast, lunch and snack menus.
View or Download2008-01: Cooking with Fresh Vegetables: Focus on Sweet PotatoesSweet potatoes are rich in vitamins and nutrients. Readers will learn various ways to serve this vegetable that is a good source of complex carbohydrates and fiber. Education activity. A week's lunch menus.
View or Download2007 Mealtime Memo2007-12: Iron Nutrition for ChildrenReaders learn the importance of iron in their diets. Healthy sources of iron in foods are showcased. A week's breakfast, lunch and snack menus.
View or Download2007-11: Healthy Classroom CelebrationsTeach children to enjoy healthy foods and non-food activities at celebrations. Party activities. Recipe for Oatmeal-Whole Wheat Raisin Cookies B-02A. A week's snack menus.
View or Download2007-10: Cooking with Fresh Vegetables: Focus on BroccoliReaders learn the nutritional value of broccoli along with cooking methods for preparing this healthy vegetable. A week's breakfast, lunch and snack menus.
View or Download2007-09: Beverages for ChildrenThis issue discusses healthy recommendations for children's beverage intake. Recipe for Peach Muffin Squares A-16A. A week's snack menus.
View or Download2007-08: Cooking with Fresh Vegetables: Focus on CarrotsThe healthful benefits and versatility of carrots are showcased. Recipe for Orange Glazed Carrots I-12A. A week's lunch menus.
View or Download2007-07: Using Seasonings in Cooking for ChildrenLearn to use herbs and spices rather than salt to season children's foods. Tips for using seasonings in cooking for children. Recipe for Baked Sweet Potatoes and Apples I-08. A week's breakfast, lunch and snack menus.
View or Download2007-06: Cooking with KidsReinforce nutrition lessons taught to children by involving them in cooking with healthy foods. List of books to share with children. Recipe for Yogurt Fruit Dip G-04. A week's lunch menus.
View or Download2007-05: Balanced Nutrition for Pre-School Children from the Grains/Breads Food GroupLearning about healthy, whole grain enriched choices from the grains/breads food group can help children learn to make nutritious selections. Recipe for Oven Baked Whole Wheat Pancakes A-06A. A week's breakfast menus.
View or Download2007-04: Balanced Nutrition for Pre-School Children from the Meat/Meat Alternate Food GroupReaders learn to make healthy choices from the meat/meat alternate food group. Variety and moderation are stressed. Recipe for Beef Stir-Fry D-18A. A week's lunch menus.
View or Download2007-03: Fun Food LessonsLearn games and songs that help teach children about food and eating in a fun-filled way. Activities include songs and games. Recipe for Baked Scrambled Eggs D-15. A week's breakfast menus.
View or Download2007-02: Steps to Planning a Nutrition Education ActivityRead about six steps that are helpful in planning a nutrition education activity with children. Nutrition activity ideas. Recipe for Tortilla Roll-Ups F-07. A week's lunch menus.
View or Download2007-01: Healthy Snacks for KidsSuggestions for planning and implementing healthy snack times for children are featured in this issue. Recipe for Muffin Squares A-11. A week's snack menus.
View or Download2006 Mealtime Memo2006-12: Establishing Eating Habits EarlyReaders learn how to help children in their care eat healthy foods and be physically active. Activities. Recipe for Baked Sweet Potatoes and Apples I-08. A week's lunch menus.
View or Download2006-11: Make Mealtimes Happy TimesLearn strategies for planning and creating a pleasant mealtime. Recipe for Sugar Cooks B-04 and Candy Cane Cookies.
View or Download2006-10: Using Cycle MenusMake meal planning easier by taking advantage of cycle menus, such as the ones in "Mealtime Memos." List of important dates for October, November and December. A week's breakfast, lunch and snack menus.
View or Download2006-09: Feeding Infants Right from the StartThis issue features information about providing infants with the right foods at the right times to promote good health and good eating habits for a lifetime. Safety practices in feeding infants.
View or Download2006-08: Family Style Dining in Child CareCACFP supports family style dining in the child care setting. Benefits and points to remember about this dining style are outlined.
View or Download2006-07: Be Prepared in an EmergencyTips for creating an emergency readiness plan are featured in this issue. Recipe for Blueberry Muffins A-03. Events for July, August and September.
View or Download2006-06: Dairy Foods for Strong Bones and TeethReaders learn the importance and sources of calcium. Recipe for Homemade Ice Cream. A week's breakfast menus. Events in June, July and August.
View or Download2006-05: Fruits and Vegetables-A Rainbow of ChoicesThe nutritional value of fruits and vegetables is featured. The ABC's of nutrition, cooking tips and importance of brightly colored fruits and vegetables. Recipe for Banana Berry Blend. A week's lunch menus. Events for May, June and July.
View or Download2006-04: Introducing New FoodsTips for expanding children's food experiences are shared. Activities include Peter Rabbit Tasting Party and the introduction of kiwi fruit. Events for May and June.
View or Download2006-03: Good Nutrition-What is It?Learn about variety, balance and moderation for good nutrition. Recipe for Yogurt Fruit Dip G-04. A week's snack menus. Events for March, April and May.
View or Download2006-02: Hot BreakfastsRead about why breakfast is known as the most important meal of the day. Hot breakfasts are featured. Recipe for Pancakes A-12. A week's breakfast menus.
View or Download2006-01: Soup is On! Hot Soup for Cold DaysSoup can be a healthy choice for children and adults. The nutritional value of soup and recipe ideas are shared. Recipe for Broccoli Cheese Soup H-05. A week's lunch menus.
View or Download2005 Mealtime Memo2005-12: Happy Care Givers Mean Happy ChildrenTips on making your workplace a happy place are outlined in this issue.
View or Download2005-11: Computer Basics for Child CareLearn about basic computer terms, helpful Web sites and integrating the world of computers into the child care setting.
View or Download2005-10: Healthy Cooking with Limited EquipmentQuality meals can be prepared with limited equipment. Learn about the proper use of basic equipment for all types of food preparation.
View or Download2005-09: Celebrating Diversity, Nurturing RespectAwareness and knowledge skills necessary to respect and appreciate the diversity of others are featured in this issue.
View or Download2005-08: Proper Food Preparation TechniquesRead about proper food preparation to insure appealing meals and good nutrition.
View or Download2005-07: Budgeting BasicsThis issue offers information about the importance of a well planned budget in providing healthy meals to children.
View or Download2005-06: Getting the Most from Your WorkdayTime management tips will help readers enjoy a more productive work day.
View or Download2005-05: Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2005Read about the set of healthy recommendations to live by based on scientific research. These guidelines for Americans over the age of two are are updated every five years.
View or Download2005-04: Safe Food StorageSafe food storage is especially important for child care centers. Instructions for safely storing foods are outlined.
View or Download2005-03: Nutrition Facts for ParentsLearn about the importance of all food groups. Recipe for Vegetarian Beans with Rice.
View or Download2005-02: Working Safe in the Child Care SettingWorkplace safety for child care workers and children is essential. Learn to prevent work-related accidents.
View or Download2005-01: Wash Your HandsProper handwashing is essential when preparing and serving food to young children. Handwashing tips and activity are featured in this issue.
View or Download2004 Mealtime Memo2004-6: Grains and Breads - What is a Serving?Frequently asked questions about grains/bread products are answered in this issue.
View or Download2004-5: Start Your Day the Breakfast Way!The benefits of breakfast for children are reviewed.
View or Download2004-04: Happy Mealtimes for Healthy KidsLearn to plan pleasant mealtime experiences to help children eat healthy meals today and develop positive eating habits that will last a lifetime.
View or Download2004-03: Stretching the Food DollarTips on making the best use of your food dollar are featured.
View or Download2004-02: Purchasing for Child Care CentersLearn about the purchasing process for child care centers.
View or Download2004-01: Promoting a Healthy LifestyleThis issue features guidance to help readers promote a healthy lifestyle when working with children. Recipe for Tortilla Roll-Up. Web Sites for Healthy Eating and Physical Activity for Children.
View or Download2003 Mealtime Memo2003-06: Tips for Handling Food SafelyRead about these important tips for food safety since most foodborne illness is a result of poor food handling. Activity coloring page about handwashing.
View or Download2003-05: Are You Ready for an Emergency?Steps for implementing an emergency readiness plan are featured in this issue.
View or Download2003-04: Menu Planning Makes a DifferenceLearn why menu planning is important in providing children with appealing, balanced and healthy meals. A week's breakfast, lunch and snack menus. Recipe for Pancakes with Maple Applesauce Topping.
View or Download2003-03: Chatting with Children at MealtimesMake mealtimes more special by reading these tips to help encourage a climate that fosters communication. Activities: GERMS on the RUN! I CAN FIND THE...
View or Download2003-02: Serving Meals Family StyleServing family-style meals allows children the freedom to make decisions and develop their own personalities. Learn how to provde family-style dining in a child care setting. Activity: Place Mat Learning.
View or Download2003-01: Snacks Can Be Healthful and AppealingLearn how to serve nutritious, safe snacks. Simple snack ideas. Activity: Make Your Own Snack Box.
View or Download2002 Mealtime Memo2002-06: Adults Influence What Children EatLearn how to influence preschoolers' eating habits in a positive way.
View or Download2002-05: Feeding Toddlers Can Be a ChallengeLearn tips about planning safe, appealing and nutritious meals for children between the ages of 18 months and three years. Activity: Fishing For Food. Tips for Preventing Choking in Young Children.
View or Download2002-04: Convenience Foods Provide Nutritious OptionsRead about ways to integrate convenience foods into your menu planning. Activity.
View or Download2002-03: Internet Resources for CACFPThis issue provides a list of relevant Web sites for CACFP professionals.
View or Download2002-02: Feeding Infants: The First Twelve MonthsLearn about proper feeding during the first year.
View or Download2002-01: Cultural DiversityRead how to introduce children to different cultures by including a variety of ethnic foods on the menu. Ethnic menu suggestions. Recipe for Vegetable Frittata. Activity suggestions.
View or Download2001 Mealtime Memo2001-07: Nutrition and Cognitive DevelopmentNutrition during the early years of a child's life is linked to performance in later years. Featured in this issue are research findings and adults' roles in giving children's lives a nutritious beginning.
View or Download2001-06: Special Needs Care for the Young ChildTips about menu planning that includes children with special dietary needs are featured in this issue.
View or Download2001-05: Choose VegetAbles Every DayLearn about vegetables that contain carotenes that the body can convert to vitamin A. Tips for Finicky Eaters.
View or Download2001-04: C is for citrusRead about the benefits of vitamin C and how citrus fruits can be integrated into children's menus. Activities.
View or Download2001-03: Food Safety Summer SavvyThe heat of summer can increase the likelihood of foodborne illness. This issue features food safety tips for hot weather. "Real" Kid Questions. Activity: All Washed Up.
View or Download2001-02: Part II Preventing Childhood Obesity: Tips for ParentsParents should aim for fitness, build a healthy base and choose sensibly as ways to prevent childhood obesity. Learn how to fight the epidemic in this issue.
View or Download2001-01: Part I-Preventing Childhood Obesity: Tips for Child Care ProfessionalsLearn ways to prevent childhood obesity in the first of this two-part series. A week's healthy snack menus. Recipe for Friendship Fruit Salad.
View or Download2000 Mealtime Memo2000-3: Sparkling SmilesDental health for children is featured in this issue. Recipe for Homemade Pretzels. Activities.
View or Download2000-02: Dairy Foods-A Powerhouse of NutrientsPre-school children need two servings from the milk group each day. Learn to integrate these servings into your menus. Recipe for Broccoli Quiche. One Day's Lunch Menu for Children Ages 3-5.
View or Download2000-01: What's New?Dietary guidelines for child nutrition programs are highlighted in this very first issue of Mealtime Memo.
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