Test Event 2026

Small Bodies, Big Experiences:

Practical Strategies for Supporting Children and Families in the Wake of Hurricanes and Other Natural Disasters

Friday July 13th

at 12pm on Zoom

What to Expect

This session focuses on practical strategies professionals can use to support children, families, and communities following a disaster.

Through discussion and real-world examples, participants will explore ways to create safe-predictable environments, strengthen relationships, and promote emotional regulation during times of stress and recovery.

The session will also highlight strategies for professionals to care for their own well-being while continuing to support others during challenging circumstances.

Participants will leave with concrete tools they can apply in their classrooms, programs, and communities to promote stability, resilience, and recovery after a disaster.

Learning Objectives:

Identify common emotional or behavioral responses children may display following a disaster.
Describe and practice practical strategies that promote safety, predictability, and emotional regulation in early childhood settings during times of crisis and recovery.
Develop a personal or program-level action step that supports their own well-being while continuing to care for children and families following a disaster.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, metus at rhoncus dapibus, habitasse vitae cubilia odio sed. Mauris pellentesque eget lorem malesuada wisi nec, nullam mus. Mauris vel mauris. Orci fusce ipsum faucibus scelerisque.

Meet our presenters

Ashley Nelson, LCSW

Project Manger, SCIMHA

Ashley is a Project Manager for the South Carolina Infant Mental Health Association and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in North Carolina. She previously served as a Healthy Steps Specialist in Baltimore, supporting the University of Maryland’s Midtown Pediatrics Clinic in early childhood development initiatives.

With a background as a child therapist, Ashley is committed to strengthening the emotional and behavioral health of young children through treatment, training, consultation, and research. Her collaborative work with families and professionals across multiple disciplines has deepened her expertise in early childhood development, diagnostics, culturally responsive, and attachment-based care.

Ashley holds a Master of Science in Social Work from Columbia University and a BA in Sociology from Saint Augustine’s University. She is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Social Work at the University of Southern California.

Shontae Hook, LBSW

CEO, Hook Organization Services

Shontae Hook is a social work professional, community advocate, and business owner with over 20 years of experience supporting individuals and families. As the founder and CEO of Hook Organization Services, she combines professional organizing with social work principles to help caregivers create simple, practical systems that reduce stress, improve daily routines, and support safety at home.

Her work focuses on helping families feel more prepared for everyday life and unexpected situations. She organizes medical information, supports medication management, and has developed easy-to-use emergency planning tools that help caregivers feel more confident navigating real-life situations including natural disasters and unexpected crises.

Shontae also volunteers with the Midlands Region Medical Reserve Corps, where she supports community emergency preparedness and outreach efforts. She is passionate about working alongside caregivers, providers, and community partners to make emergency planning feel less overwhelming and more achievable especially during hurricane season.