Source: ChildCareEd
Description: This document outlines a well-organized, age-appropriate meal plan for children from birth to five years old, serving as a useful resource for early childhood educators, caregivers, and CDA candidates. It details five complete days of meals and snacks—breakfast, morning snack, lunch, and afternoon snack—providing specific portion sizes and food choices designed for three developmental stages: infants (birth to 5 months), older infants (6 to 11 months), and toddlers/preschoolers (1 to 5 years). The plan features nutritionally balanced combinations of proteins, grains, dairy, fruits, and vegetables, aligning with USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) standards and best practices in childcare nutrition. Its clear tabular format allows professionals to easily implement consistent and healthy eating habits in childcare environments.
