Response
Performance Standards
Resources

See PDF version: EHS Tip Sheet No. 3: Do Programs Need to Provide Formula During Socializations?» [PDF, 28KB]

Response:

Programs need to have formula available during socialization activities since the Standards require the provision of appropriate snacks and meals for each child. Snacks and meals refer to the foods that are consumed by the age group being served.

The types of available foods and formulas should reflect the individual needs of the children involved. For example, if a child is lactose intolerant and only drinks soy-based formula, soy- based products should be available for consumption.

USDA Reimbursement

Sometimes, USDA reimbursement is not possible such as when the socialization location is not licensed by state childcare or by USDA. In such circumstances, programs often contract for reimbursable food services through a licensed, USDA organization or entity.

Fiscally Allowable Cost

Formula is a fiscally allowable cost for required program services. Questions to Consider for Planning and Programming:

• How do programs ensure that the appropriate foods and formulas are available for each child
  during socialization activities?
• How does the program work with their local nutritionist to ensure proper and appropriate
  foods and formulas are available?
• What is the role of the Health Services Advisory Committee?

Performance Standards, Title 45, Code of Federal Regulations:

• 1304.23(b)(2) & 1306.33(c)(3) Grantee and delegate agencies operating home-based options must provide appropriate snacks and meals to each child during group socialization activities.

• 1304.23(b)(1)(i) All Early Head Start and Head Start grantee and delegate agencies must use funds from USDA Food and Consumer Services Child Nutrition Programs as the primary source of payment for meal services. Early Head Start and Head Start funds cover those fiscally allowable costs not covered by the USDA.

Resources:

Policy Clarifications. The Early Childhood Learning and Knowledge Center. DHHS/ACF/OHS.

• OHS-PC-B-009: Is There a Specific Head Start Regulation that Requires that the Menus have to be Reviewed and Approved by a Registered Dietician or Qualified Child Nutritionist? June 19, 2007.
• OHS-PC-B-049: Are Head Start Programs Required to Provide Infant Formula? March 20, 2009.
  United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Regulations.
  http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/!ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?navid=REGS_DIRECTIVES&pa
  rentnav=LAWS_REGS&navtype=RT

08/10 (03/03; 08/01)

This Tip Sheet is not a regulatory document. Its intent is to provide a basis for dialogue, clarification, and problem solving among Office of Head Start, Regional Offices, TA consultants, and grantees. If you need further clarification on Head Start Policies and regulations, please contact your Regional Program Specialist.