Child feeding
Certificate, undergraduate
Overview
- In-state: $491
- Out-of-state: $1,465
Related Topics
Feed to lead
The child feeding certificate is designed for professionals who want a well-rounded understanding of child development — from the prenatal period through age 12 — paired with essential knowledge in nutrition and feeding practices. Ideal for childcare providers, program administrators, therapists, nutritionists and others in related fields, the program emphasizes individualized developmental approaches and the importance of context in learning.
Participants will explore evidence-based strategies for managing meals, supporting developmentally appropriate feeding and promoting healthy eating behaviors during a critical window of growth. With a strong foundation in child nutrition and practical application, the certificate equips professionals to make a lasting impact on children's health and well-being.
Highlights from this program include:
- The first and only child feeding certificate offered in Idaho
- Designed for working professionals to expand their knowledgebase
This certificate may be a good fit if you:
- Are pursuing or hold a bachelor’s degree
- Want specialization in child feeding
- Wish to deepen ability to support healthy child nutrition and feeding practices
Grow with every bite
Curriculum
The Child feeding undergraduate certificate is a 13-credit program combining coursework and applied learning experiences. Students build technical expertise while gaining hands-on experience in the field.
Explore program courses in the University Catalog
Learning objectives
- Identify essential vitamins, minerals and macronutrients needed across different developmental stages
- Apply tools to evaluate growth and identify signs of undernutrition or overnutrition
- Learn to plan and prepare meals for children with allergies, cultural needs or medical requirements
- Understand safe handling, preparation and storage techniques for food
- Develop strategies to handle common childhood feeding struggles
- Understand how to minimize ultra-processed foods and build healthy lifelong attitudes toward food
Hands-on learning
- Volunteer at a local school, childcare center or Head Start program
- Work closely with faculty members on child development research topics
Career outcomes
Current job openings
5,331 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Nannies • Childcare Workers
$34,958 - Social and Human Service Assistants
$50,371 - Teaching Assistants • Special Education Teaching Assistants
$43,612 - Child, Family, and School Social Workers
$69,056 - School Bus Monitors
$39,077
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Clubs
- Collegiate Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA)
- Phi Upsilon Omicron
- Child Development Club
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
Financial aid
U of I certificate programs are not eligible for financial aid or scholarships. Financial aid and scholarships are available only to students enrolled in bachelor’s or associate degree programs.
For more information or to explore funding options for your education, contact the Financial Aid Office at finaid@uidaho.edu or call 208-885-6312.
Application information
Admission criteria for undergraduate certificates are the same as those for U of I undergraduate degree programs. View our admission requirements to learn more.
Undergraduate certificate application process
Students interested in adding a certificate to their bachelor’s or associate degree program should speak with their academic advisor.
Students interested in earning an undergraduate certificate as a standalone program should contact the Admissions Office at 208-885-6326 for information on how to apply.
Overview
- In-state: $491
- Out-of-state: $1,465
Related Topics
Have questions?
Not sure if this program is the right fit? Connect with your admissions counselor or request more information to get personalized guidance on program details, requirements and next steps.
Find your admissions counselor
Request more information
Connect with program faculty