On January 7, 2026, early education professionals gathered at Framingham State University for an impactful professional development event: Advancing Culinary Confidence and Nutrition Education in CACFP Settings. Hosted in collaboration with the Community Nutrition Program at the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and The John C. Stalker Institute of Food and Nutrition, this full-day training was designed to elevate approaches to nutrition and meal service in Child Care Food Programs.
The event highlighted the transformative power of scratch cooking, the benefits of incorporating local foods, and the critical role of nutrition education in building healthier programs. Through interactive sessions and hands-on culinary workshops, participants explored practical strategies for creating creditable, appealing meals while learning effective ways to engage children in positive food experiences.
Chef-Led Culinary Workshops by JSI Chefs
Two globally inspired culinary tracks gave attendees the opportunity to build confidence and creativity in the kitchen:
Asian Fusion Culinary Class, Tasting, and Discussion
Participants practiced preparing kid-friendly favorites such as chicken teriyaki, crispy tofu, confetti fried rice, and stir-fried vegetables, gaining tips for flavor balance and presentation.
- Latin American Culinary Class, Tasting, and Discussion
This workshop featured vibrant dishes like fish tacos, fresh salsa, and Spanish rice, showcasing techniques to make culturally inspired meals accessible and appealing for young eaters.
For additional inspiration and culturally relevant menu ideas, please visit the Nutrition Bites for Child Care web pages. This resource offers practical, kid-friendly dishes that reflect diverse cuisines, helping CACFP programs create menus that are both nutritious and culturally inclusive.
Nutrition-Focused Sessions Led by DESE
In addition to culinary training, attendees engaged in evidence-based workshops addressing key challenges and opportunities in CACFP settings:
- Picky Eaters & Sensory Feeders in the CACFP
This session offered practical, evidence-based session exploring strategies to support children who are hesitant to try new foods or who have sensory feeding challenges. Developmentally normal picky eating, how to create positive mealtime routines, fun ways to make fruits and veggies appealing, and tips for supporting children with autism or sensory processing differences was also covered. Perfect for CACFP child care providers looking to boost mealtime success and encourage lifelong healthy eating habits. - Building Better Bites: Teaching and Tasting for Mealtime Success Creative
Unlock the power of creativity in CACFP menu planning! This session explored how food chaining can ease picky eaters into trying new foods by building on familiar favorites. Spark interest and increase meal acceptance through colorful, fun, and nutritious menu designs, smart food pairings, and culturally relevant options. Best practices were highlighted for incorporating age-appropriate nutrition education into your program to help children build lifelong healthy habits.Â
- Farm to Early Education 101: Fun, Food and FundingÂ
Incorporating fresh, local foods into your childcare program helps children build healthy habits and discover how their plates connect to their community. Through gardening and nutrition education, kids develop new skills, explore how food grows, and learn how it fuels their bodies. This session explored simple ways to bring farm to early education into your center—or build on the great work you’re already doing.Â
A Day of Inspiration and Practical Takeaway
This event provided CACFP professionals with actionable tools to enhance meal quality, foster positive food experiences, and strengthen nutrition education in early childhood settings. By combining culinary skill-building with evidence-based strategies, participants left empowered to create menus that are not only creditable and nutritious but also engaging and culturally relevant.