About Us


Program Highlights

  • All students complete a multi-term practicum experience to gain skills working with children and families. Graduate students in the child life specialization compete a child life practicum at Seattle Children's Hospital.
  • Students get to know each other and the CDFS faculty in small classes, built on collaboration and hands-on learning.
  • Seniors and graduate students conduct original research that contributes to the field of child development and family science.
  • Our child life program is endorsed by the Association of Child Life Professionals (ACLP) and our family science program is a Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE)-approved program by the National Council on Family Relations.

For Program Information

Contact Dr. Amy Claridge.

Stay involved with Child Development and Family Science

Social Media

CWU News

YVC President Teresa Rich and CWU President Jim Wohlpart celebrate their MOU signing on May 26

New partnership between CWU and YVC to enhance four-year degree pathways

June 3, 2026 by

CWU alum Nolan Teasley

CWU alum named GM of Minnesota Vikings

June 3, 2026 by

More News

Questions? Contact Us.


Child Development and Family Science

Michaelsen 100

Give to Our Programs