What to expect for meals,
snacks, and daily nutrition

Educare Meal Program

The Educare Meal Program supports healthy growth by providing balanced meals and snacks that meet South Dakota Child Nutrition Program guidelines. This page explains meal schedules, infant feeding requirements, special dietary accommodations and other important nutrition information for families.

We follow clear guidelines to ensure children are fed safely, consistently, and in a way that supports their development.

Infants

Parents provide all food for infants.

  • Bring enough formula or breast milk for the time your child is at the center
  • Only unopened containers of formula and baby food will be used
  • Plastic bottles or bottles with liners will be used
  • Bottles and caps must be clearly labeled with your child’s name
  • Food and bottles must be placed in designated storage areas

For safety:

  • No baby of any age will be put in bed with a bottle.
  • Bottles will not be left unrefrigerated for more than 45 minutes
  • Any remaining milk or formula after feeding will be discarded
  • Infants are not fed directly from food jars
  • Feeding schedules follow each child’s individual needs

Toddlers and Other Children

As children grow, meals and snacks are provided by the Nutrition and Food Services Department and follow South Dakota guidelines for balanced nutrition.

  • Meals include a variety of food groups and support daily nutritional needs
  • Children transition to daycare-provided meals when they move into Room 3

Additional notes:

  • Meals are not included in tuition
  • Families may apply for free or reduced meal rates through the office
  • Special diets must be provided by parents and properly stored
  • Substitutions are provided for children with food allergies (a doctor’s note is required for milk allergies)

Mealtimes

Meals and snacks are served at approximately the following times:

Room 3

  • Breakfast: 7:00 – 9:00 AM
  • Lunch: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
  • Snack: 3:00 PM

Room 4

  • Breakfast: 7:00 – 9:00 AM
  • Lunch: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
  • Snack: 3:10 PM

If your child will be eating breakfast, they must be seated by 7:45 AM. No exceptions.

Non-Discrimination Statement

In accordance with Child Nutrition Program requirements, no child will be discriminated against based on race, color, national origin, age, sex, or disability.