
THE LINK
Issue 66 | Fall 2026
The Fall 2026 edition of The Link brings crisp-weather inspiration for your CACFP program, with sample fall menus, food storage safety guidance, and creditable recipes like Fresh Carrot Salad and Cheesy Ranch Corn, along with tips for avoiding common meal pattern mistakes with cereals, yogurt, and serving sizes. This issue also digs into an important USDA policy update expanding fluid milk options for children ages 2 and older.
You’ll also find heartfelt guidance on helping children build friendships, ideas for boosting family engagement through fall events, and two fun seasonal crafts (Leaf Critters and Apple Threading) that build fine motor and language skills. Don’t miss Cardinal Corner’s take on Family Backpack traditions and cross-cultural connection, information on joining the CACFP, and a spotlight on plant-powered, fiber-rich menu resources from Balanced.org.
This edition also features inspiring educator spotlights from Kentucky and Tennessee, plus updates on the CACFP Educator Portal, e-forms, online enrollment, and other tools designed to help children, families, and educators grow, connect, and thrive this fall.












