Harding University Applied Human Sciences

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Harding University Applied Human Sciences W prepare Christian professionals to assume leadership roles that support quality of life of individuals and families in contemporary society.

We have an open faculty position in our Applied Dietetics Practice Program! Apply at the link in our bio! Harding Univer...
10/23/2026

We have an open faculty position in our Applied Dietetics Practice Program! Apply at the link in our bio!
Harding University Dietetics

Join us for a brunch reunion at Homecoming!
10/21/2026

Join us for a brunch reunion at Homecoming!

Fueling Young Minds and Bodies - Why Nutrition Matters for Child DevelopmentChild Development is a Family and Consumer S...
10/20/2026

Fueling Young Minds and Bodies - Why Nutrition Matters for Child Development

Child Development is a Family and Consumer Sciences course. Did you know that the first few years of a child’s life are critical for brain development? Research shows that nutrition during early childhood not only supports physical growth but also directly shapes brain structure, cognitive ability, and lifelong health. 🧠

During the first 1,000 days (from pregnancy to age 2), a child’s brain develops rapidly. Adequate nutrition during this window helps build neural connections, supports learning, and strengthens memory and attention.

💡 Key nutrients that matter:

Iron supports brain development and cognitive function; deficiency is linked to challenges in attention, memory, and learning.

Healthy fats (like those in breast milk, fish, and certain oils) support brain growth and structure.

Proteins, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains provide the building blocks for growth and energy needed for daily learning.

👶 What caregivers can do:

Prioritize breastfeeding when possible and introduce nutrient-dense complementary foods around 6 months of age.

Offer a variety of foods (“eat the rainbow”) to ensure children get essential vitamins and minerals.

Limit added sugars and ultra-processed foods, which can displace more nutritious options.

Establish healthy eating habits early—these patterns often last into adulthood.

✨ Good nutrition isn’t just about preventing hunger—it’s about unlocking a child’s full developmental potential. When we nourish children well, we invest in stronger learners, healthier communities, and brighter futures.

AAFCS FCSSuccess ElevateFCS 4HBeyondReady FCSEdMatters homeeconomics

Congratulations to Lizzy Beehn on accepting a Child Life internship at Intermountain Health Primary Children's Hospital ...
10/16/2026

Congratulations to Lizzy Beehn on accepting a Child Life internship at Intermountain Health Primary Children's Hospital in Salt Lake City, Utah. We're proud of you, Lizzy!!

Looking forward to the Lunch & Learn with Annie Gerst tomorrow!
10/13/2026

Looking forward to the Lunch & Learn with Annie Gerst tomorrow!

Growing Healthy Kids - What Really MattersChildren’s health and development are deeply connected—and the science is clea...
10/13/2026

Growing Healthy Kids - What Really Matters

Children’s health and development are deeply connected—and the science is clear: everyday habits shape lifelong outcomes.

🧠 Early childhood is a critical window. The first years of life lay the foundation for cognitive, emotional, and physical development. Supportive environments, strong relationships, and healthy routines help children thrive across all domains.

🏃‍♀️ Movement builds more than muscles. Regular physical activity improves brain health, attention, memory, and emotional well-being—while also strengthening bones and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

😴 Sleep is essential, not optional. Quality sleep supports learning, behavior, emotional regulation, and even brain structure. Children who don’t get enough sleep may experience challenges with memory, attention, and mental health.

🍎 Healthy habits work together. Balanced nutrition, active play, and sufficient sleep collectively improve physical and mental health—and even academic performance.

👨‍👩‍👧 Relationships matter too! Simple interactions—reading, talking, and playing—along with safe, nurturing environments are just as important for healthy development as physical health behaviors.

✨ The takeaway: When we support the whole child—body, mind, and environment—we set the stage for lifelong health, learning, and well-being. Family and Consumer Sciences are valuable courses.

AAFCS FCSSuccess ElevateFCS 4HBeyondReady FCSEdMatters homeeconomics

4-H Projects in Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS): Building Life Skills for Success! 4-H projects in FCS empower youth ...
10/06/2026

4-H Projects in Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS): Building Life Skills for Success!

4-H projects in FCS empower youth to master practical life skills through hands-on learning and real-world experiences. From creative kitchens to sewing studios, participants sharpen skills in:

👚 Clothing & Textiles – Learn sewing, garment construction, wardrobe planning, and even explore advanced wearable technology.

🍎 Foods & Nutrition – Discover healthy eating, meal planning, food safety, and culinary skills. Don’t miss local food judging and cake-decorating contests!

💵 Consumer Education – Gain financial literacy as you practice money management, smart shopping, price comparison, and budgeting essentials.

👶 Child & Family Development – Explore child growth stages, become a confident babysitter, and strengthen family relationships.

🏡 Home Design & Environment – Dive into interior design, space planning, and heritage arts through home decor and crafts.

Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) teaches decision-making, resource management, and personal development skills, preparing youth for future careers and independent living. Ready to develop skills for life?


AAFCS FCSSuccess ElevateFCS 4HBeyondReady FCSEdMatters homeeconomics

We LOVED hosting 350+ students and teachers for the FCCLA Chapter Officer Leadership Academy today!!!Our HU students led...
10/05/2026

We LOVED hosting 350+ students and teachers for the FCCLA Chapter Officer Leadership Academy today!!!

Our HU students led incredible leadership sessions!

Our professors shared about career pathways in family & consumer sciences!

FCCLA leaders from around the state were able to meet and collaborate!

Thank you to Harding Campus Life for hosting a Dirty Soda Bar for Arkansas FCCLA!

🥦 Why EFNEP Matters: Building Skills for Healthier Lives“Adulting” includes knowing how to eat well, manage food budgets...
09/29/2026

🥦 Why EFNEP Matters: Building Skills for Healthier Lives

“Adulting” includes knowing how to eat well, manage food budgets, and keep families healthy—and that’s exactly where EFNEP (Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program) makes a measurable difference.

📊 The evidence-based impact: EFNEP is a national, research-driven nutrition education program that helps individuals and families build the skills needed for better health, food security, and self-sufficiency.

✨ What participants gain:

🍎 Improved nutrition habits: Studies show EFNEP participants consistently report better diet quality and healthier eating behaviors after completing the program.

💵 Stronger food resource management: Participants learn how to stretch food dollars, plan meals, and shop wisely, increasing food security and reducing waste.

🧼 Safer food practices: EFNEP emphasizes proper food handling, storage, and preparation—helping reduce the risk of foodborne illness.

🏃‍♀️ Healthier lifestyles: Participants also report increases in physical activity and overall wellness behaviors, supporting long-term health outcomes.

📈 Proven results at scale: Over 96% of adult participants improve what they eat and millions of families have gained skills that support healthier living

🎓 Why EFNEP certification matters: Completing EFNEP programming signals that individuals have gained evidence-based knowledge and practical life skills—from nutrition to budgeting—making it a valuable foundation for health, independence, and family well-being.

✨ The Takeaway: EFNEP isn’t just a class—it’s a pathway to healthier choices, stronger families, and lifelong skills that make “adulting” a little easier.

AAFCS FCSSuccess ElevateFCS 4HBeyondReady FCSEdMatters homeeconomics

🥗 Food Safety Isn't Just for the Kitchen—It's a Life Skill.Would you know how to prevent foodborne illness, safely prepa...
09/22/2026

🥗 Food Safety Isn't Just for the Kitchen—It's a Life Skill.

Would you know how to prevent foodborne illness, safely prepare a meal, or protect your family from cross-contamination?

These aren't just cooking skills—they're essential life skills.

Through Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS), students gain hands-on experience in food safety, nutrition, sanitation, and safe food handling that prepares them for everyday life, careers in the food and hospitality industries, and healthier communities.

When we teach food safety, we don't just prevent illness—we build confidence, responsibility, and lifelong healthy habits.

🍎 Food safety is more than a lesson. It's a skill for life.

💬 What food safety tip do you think everyone should know?

AAFCS FCSSuccess ElevateFCS 4HBeyondReady FCSEdMatters homeeconomics

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Searcy, AR
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