Effect of Parental Educational Background on Children’s Nutrition in Sokoto State

This study investigates the effect of parental educational background on children's nutrition among households in Sokoto State, North West Nigeria. Parental education, particularly maternal education, is widely recognised as a key determinant of child nutritional outcomes in developing country settings. The study employs a descriptive survey design, targeting households with children aged 3 to 12 years in Wamakko and Dange-Shuni local government areas. A structured questionnaire and anthropometric measurements were used to collect data from 240 households. Objectives include assessing the nutritional status of children, examining the educational profiles of parents, and determining the extent to which parental education predicts dietary diversity and feeding practices. Recent studies from North West Nigeria document high rates of childhood undernutrition linked to limited maternal education and knowledge of child feeding guidelines. Data were analysed using ANOVA and Pearson correlation. The Human Capital Theory frames the study, positioning education as an investment that enhances household productivity and child welfare. Findings are anticipated to demonstrate a significant positive relationship between parental educational attainment and children's nutritional adequacy. The study recommends that government agencies and NGOs intensify adult literacy and nutrition education programmes targeting mothers in Sokoto State. Keywords: parental education, child nutrition, dietary diversity, Sokoto State, household feeding practices.