Educating With Hands-on Learning: CACFP Showcase

Austin, TX, March 28, 2017 (Newswire.com) - ​​​​One of the major worries for pregnant moms is child care for the baby when time off from work ends. Corrine Hendrickson was sitting with a group of friends all expecting and having the exact same worry about quality childcare. At that moment, she decided she needed to leave her current job, use the degree she had worked so hard for, and open her own home child care. Ten years later, she has never regretted that sudden decision—loving every moment she spends with the kids in her care.

In Corrine's home child care, hands-on learning is integrated whenever possible, starting with healthy lifestyles. Every year the children plant a garden. They begin with planning what to plant and walking together to buy the seeds from the local nursery. After plotting and planting, the kids water, weed, pick and prepare the fruits and vegetables. The children take ownership in the menu and are  involved in preparing the food. Even at three, Corrine has them in the kitchen with her cooking. They take turns choosing a vegetable and everyone must take a "thank you bite." On birthdays and other special days, one child will get to pick their favorite healthy lunch for everyone to prepare.

"If they love learning, they'll want to continue learning even more as they grow up."

Corrine Hendrickson, Childcare Provider

Because the children are involved as much as possible, it facilitates a love for learning. Corrine tries to prepare them with basic knowledge of pre-school skills and then adds to that with physical activity including parachutes, bikes and swimming lessons. Walks to the park and sledding during the winter are fun physical activities enjoyed by all. Inside they have tunnels, dance parties and make-believe props and clothes. 

Regardless of what lesson is being learned, above all, Corrine wants the children to learn how to be, and grow up to be, honorable and kind human beings. Her hope is that along the way they are curious, asking questions, and not afraid to try new things.  The progress that she sees her kids making every day keeps her motivated and continues to give her joy for the work she is doing. 

CACFP is an indicator of quality child care. When children are cared for by providers who are part of the CACFP program they are receiving the best nutrition available. Learn more about other CACFP providers featured in our Member Showcase at our website, www.cacfp.org.

Since 1986, the National CACFP Sponsors Association (NCA) is the leading national organization for sponsors who administer the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). We provide education and support to thousands of members in the CACFP community and in particular to sponsors of all sizes from across the country. We strive to improve communication between families, care givers, sponsors, and their supervising government agencies.

Source: National CACFP Sponsors Association