Proper nutrition is a cornerstone of healthy child development, especially in the early years. At ABC Child Development Centers, we understand the profound impact that nutritious meals have on a child’s growth, energy, focus, and emotional well-being. That’s why we’re proud to include healthy USDA-approved meals and snacks in the tuition for every child—from infants to school-age students.

When children receive consistent, balanced meals during the day, they’re better able to learn, play, and thrive. Here’s a look at how our USDA food program benefits young learners, what’s included in our daily meals, and why we believe every child deserves access to healthy food in a safe and nurturing environment.

Why Nutrition Matters in Early Childhood

The early years are a critical window for brain development, immune system strength, and the formation of lifelong habits. Studies consistently show that children who receive regular, nutritious meals are more likely to:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Perform better in school
• Exhibit improved behavior and concentration
• Have stronger immune responses
• Develop positive relationships with food
  

Unfortunately, not all children have access to the nutrition they need. That’s where USDA meal programs come in—ensuring every child, regardless of background, receives the essential fuel they need to grow.

What Are USDA Meals & Snacks?

USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) meals and snacks follow rigorous standards to ensure that children receive balanced nutrition in appropriate portions for their age group. These guidelines include requirements for:

• Whole grains
• Fruits and vegetables
• Lean proteins
• Low-fat or non-fat dairy
• Limited added sugars and sodium
  

Our daily menus are thoughtfully planned to meet or exceed USDA standards. Every meal is prepared fresh, with attention to age-specific dietary needs, allergies, and preferences.

Included in Tuition: Breakfast, Lunch, and Snacks

We believe healthy food shouldn’t be an added expense or luxury for families. That’s why all meals and snacks are included in tuition—providing peace of mind for parents and consistent nourishment for children throughout the day.

Here’s what a typical day of meals might include:

• Breakfast: Whole-grain cereal with low-fat milk and fruit
• Lunch: Baked chicken, brown rice, steamed carrots, and applesauce
• Afternoon Snack: Whole-grain crackers with cheese and a cup of water

Menus rotate regularly to introduce variety and keep mealtime exciting. We also accommodate dietary restrictions, allergies, and cultural preferences, ensuring every child feels safe and included during meals.

Healthy Habits Start Early

By offering USDA meals and snacks as part of our educational programs, we’re doing more than just feeding children—we’re helping them build a positive relationship with food that can last a lifetime.

Children in our care are encouraged to:

• Try new foods in a low-pressure setting
• Serve themselves during family-style meals (when age-appropriate)
• Talk about nutrition and healthy choices during classroom activities
• Practice good hygiene, such as washing hands before eating
  

These habits teach children self-regulation, independence, and confidence, while also reinforcing lessons about nutrition and health from our curriculum.

Supporting Family Wellness at Home

ABC Child Development Center extends our commitment to nutrition beyond the classroom. We regularly share menus, recipes, and wellness tips with families to support healthy eating at home.

We encourage families to:

• Mirror the healthy meals their children enjoy at school
• Involve children in shopping and meal prep at home
• Use mealtime as a chance to connect and reflect
  

By working together, we can help establish a strong foundation of health that benefits the whole family.

Our Health & Safety Commitment

Providing nutritious meals is just one part of our broader commitment to health and safety. At ABC Child Development Center, our environments are designed to ensure:

• Safe food handling procedures at every step
• Clean and sanitized eating areas
• Allergy management plans for individual children
• Consistent handwashing and hygiene routines
  

You can learn more about our full health and safety practices on the ABC Health & Safety page.

Why Families Choose ABC Child Development Center

Here’s why so many parents in Greeley and beyond trust us with their children’s education and nutrition:

• Holistic care: We focus on the whole child—mind, body, and spirit
• No hidden fees: Meals are included in tuition, so families don’t have to pack food or pay extra
• Fresh food daily: Meals are made with care to meet USDA guidelines and exceed expectations
• Developmentally appropriate: Menus and routines are tailored to each age group, from infants to school-age children
• Community focus: We’re committed to supporting local families with dependable, compassionate care

Final Thoughts

Nutritious meals fuel more than just bodies—they support brain development, emotional wellness, and a love of learning. At ABC Child Development Centers, our USDA-approved meals and snacks ensure that children are well-fed, energized, and ready to grow.

Whether your child is just beginning their journey in our infant program or gearing up for kindergarten, you can count on us to provide wholesome meals every day, all year long.

Looking for a child care program that prioritizes health and nutrition?

Visit ABC Child Development Centers to learn more about our USDA meal plans and enroll today!