Cross-Sectional Associations of Positive and Adverse Childhood Experiences with Adulthood Awareness of and Participation in Children’s Cafeterias (Kodomo Shokudo) in Japan

Childhood experiences shape social participation in adulthood. However, evidence remains limited regarding how positive childhood experiences (PCEs) and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) relate to participation in low-threshold, community-based initiatives. This study examined the associations between PCEs and ACEs and adulthood awareness of and engagement in children’s cafeterias ( kodomo shokudo ) in Japan. Using nationwide online survey data, PCE and ACE scores were categorized as 0, 1-2, 3-5, and 6-7, and 0, 1, 2, and ≥3, respectively. Outcomes were awareness and past-year engagement. In fully adjusted models, higher PCE and ACE categories were associated with greater awareness (ORs [95% CIs]: 2.11 [1.95-2.29] for PCE 6-7; 2.13 [1.96-2.33] for ACE ≥3). Higher PCE categories were also associated with engagement (1.32 [1.08-1.63] for PCE 6-7), whereas ACE categories were not. Supportive childhood environments may facilitate engagement in flexible community initiatives.