Community Action, Inc. of Hays, Caldwell & Blanco Counties


	Early Education

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	Annual Report 2009-2010 \| How To Apply


	Service Components

Nutrition

Promotes child wellness by providing nutrition services that supplements and complements those of the home and community. Head Start's child nutrition services assist families in meeting each child's nutrition needs and in establishing good eating habits that nurture healthy development and promote life-long well-being.

	1.	Identify each enrolled child's nutritional needs.
	2.	Implement a nutritional services program using funds from the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program or through public school districts.
	3.	Set up meal service.
	4.	Provide nutrition education and information to families.
	5.	Maintain compliance with food safety and sanitation regulations.

	The Nutrition Coordinator is responsible for the following:

		•	Coordination with Meal Services, to include:
			* Writing menus
			* Purchasing kitchen equipment
			* Hiring and training staff
		•	Nutrition counseling for the children and parents in Early Head Start and Head Start.

Children that go to Early Head Start and Head Start are given a well-balance breakfast, lunch and snack everyday. Leisurely meal times provide opportunities for the development of positive attitudes toward health foods; for decision-making, sharing, communicating with others; and for the development of muscle control and eye-hand coordination. Children are also taught and practice the importance of family style dinning and portion control. Families are encouraged to participate in program nutrition activities by:
	•	Planning menus
	•	Assisting with classroom nutrition activities
	•	Assisting with dental hygiene activities
	•	Serving as volunteers or staff for food service activities
	•	Reviewing the nutrition program on an ongoing basis

	Many programs in the community are available for additional nutrition resources. These programs are as follows:
	•	USDA child nutrition programs, such as the Child Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), and the Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infant and Children (WIC)
	•	State Nutrition Education and Training Program (NET) Coordinators in State Health or Education Departments or the (State) Cooperative Extension Service
	•	Professional and trade organizations, such as the American Dietetic Association, American Home Economics Association, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Dental Association, and Society for Nutrition Education.


	Mylinda Zapata Nutrition Specialist (512)396-3395 X 227 mzapata@communityaction.com

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Community Action, Inc. • 101 Uhland Rd. - Ste 107 • PO Box 748 • San Marcos, TX 78667-0748 (512)392-1161