In this course, we will explore the historical, cultural, social, nutritional and political relationships between children and food. Using the interdisciplinary tools of food studies and childhood studies, we will seek to better understand the complexity of the pediatric diet and consumer culture. We will analyze the idea and history of the “obesity epidemic,” as well as examine familial, corporate and political approaches to children’s rights in the culinary realm. Analysis of the National School Lunch program will serve as a case study to examine these political and social cultures in depth. Equal parts qualitative and quantitative, students will have an opportunity to learn all sides of the story when it comes to kids and food.