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April 13-17, 2026

Las Vegas, Nevada

CACFP · Afterschool Meals · Summer Food

Research & Resources Track | CEU Specialty 1 | Intermediate

More Than the Meal: Trauma-Informed Nutrition Practices

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) influence how children relate to food and mealtime. Review trauma-informed strategies to create safe, supportive eating environments. Using Southeast Michigan’s diverse cultural context, learn how to adapt practices for children with varying experiences, diets and food access challenges.

  1. Define how ACEs impact child food behaviors and mealtime dynamics.
  2. Apply three trauma-informed feeding practices in child nutrition programs.
  3. Develop culturally sensitive strategies for diverse populations.

Presented by

Patricia Blake-Smith Web

Patricia Blake-Smith, MS, CHW, HCA

Critical Needs Manager II, City of Detroit – Parks and Recreation Division

Sandra Gatewood Web

Sandra Gatewood, CHW

Lead Program Specialist, City of Detroit – Parks and Recreation Division

Vanessa Jordan Web

Vanessa Jordan

Program Specialist, City of Detroit – Parks and Recreation Division

Early Registration Rates

$669 Members | $789 Non-Members

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