CACFP

Term from Childcare industry explained for recruiters

The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) is a federal nutrition program that helps childcare providers serve healthy meals to children. When you see this on a resume, it means the person has experience managing or working with a food program that follows specific government guidelines. Think of it as a system that ensures children in daycare centers, after-school programs, or adult care facilities receive proper nutrition. It's similar to the school lunch program, but specifically for childcare settings. Directors and staff need to understand CACFP because it involves meal planning, record-keeping, and following nutrition guidelines.

Examples in Resumes

Managed CACFP program compliance and meal planning for 50 children

Completed CACFP documentation and monthly reports for state audits

Trained staff on Child and Adult Care Food Program guidelines and procedures

Typical job title: "CACFP Coordinators"

Also try searching for:

Food Program Coordinator Nutrition Coordinator Childcare Director Program Administrator Food Service Manager Childcare Center Manager

Where to Find CACFP Coordinators

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a CACFP audit and ensure compliance?

Expected Answer: Should discuss experience with maintaining accurate records, organizing documentation, training staff on proper procedures, and implementing systems to track meal counts and attendance.

Q: What strategies have you used to improve a center's CACFP program?

Expected Answer: Should mention experience with staff training, implementing efficient record-keeping systems, menu planning that meets requirements while appealing to children, and budget management.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you ensure proper meal counts and documentation?

Expected Answer: Should explain daily record-keeping procedures, methods for accurate meal counting, and systems for maintaining required documentation.

Q: What are the key components of CACFP meal pattern requirements?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain basic meal components (fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins) and portion sizes for different age groups.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is CACFP and why is it important?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic understanding of the program's purpose in providing nutritious meals to children in care settings and its role in childcare operations.

Q: How do you record daily meal counts?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain basic process of counting and recording meals served, understanding of when meals should be counted, and importance of accuracy.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-1 years)

  • Basic understanding of CACFP requirements
  • Daily meal counting and recording
  • Following menu plans
  • Basic food safety knowledge

Mid (1-3 years)

  • Menu planning according to guidelines
  • Staff training on procedures
  • Maintaining program records
  • Monthly report preparation

Senior (3+ years)

  • Program compliance management
  • Audit preparation and response
  • Budget management
  • Policy development and implementation

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of basic CACFP meal requirements
  • Inability to explain record-keeping procedures
  • Lack of food safety certification
  • No experience with compliance documentation

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