Family Studies

Family Studies


Family studies is a multidisciplinary subject area that encompasses four areas:

  1. fashion and housing
  2. food and nutrition
  3. general family studies
  4. raising and caring for children.

The topics covered in these areas include, among others: textile production; the functions and design of clothing; the fashion industry; issues related to housing; interior design; the role of nutrition in health; the relationship between food and culture; human and family interactions and development; life management skills; various types of relationships; and considerations related to raising and caring for children.

All courses in family studies encourage students to develop critical and creative thinking skills. Students are given opportunities to deepen their understanding of relevant issues and to develop practical skills, including research and inquiry skills. Students are encouraged to explore a range of perspectives and approaches and to develop the habits of mind that enhance individual, family, and community well-being and contribute to lifelong learning.

(Adapted from:  Ontario Ministry of Education, The Ontario Curriculum Grades 11 and 12: Social Sciences & the Humanities, 2013. p. 143).

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