Growing Together: Farm to CACFP for Head Start

Calling all Head Start leaders, educators, and nutrition staff! Join the CDSS Farm to Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) Team and the California Head Start Collaboration Office to explore how Farm to CACFP can connect local foods, nutrition and agriculture-based education, and edible gardening to meaningful experiences for young children. Presenters will share practical ways to introduce local foods at mealtimes, bring food and garden exploration into the classroom, and engage families in the fun. Through peer-to-peer learning, you’ll also have opportunities to exchange ideas, share experiences, and learn from other Head Start programs. Whether you’re just getting started or building on existing activities, you’ll discover ideas and resources to help your program grow. Together, let’s plant the seeds for healthy habits and curious learners! 

By the end of this webinar, participants will be able to: 

• Describe the three elements of Farm to CACFP—local food procurement, nutrition and agriculture-based education, and edible gardening. 
• Identify practical strategies for incorporating Farm to CACFP into Head Start programs. 
• Explore ways to engage families and community partners in Farm to CACFP activities. 
• Draw on peer experiences and shared resources to identify a feasible next step for beginning or expanding Farm to CACFP in your program.