Improving the lives of Canadian children with disabilities by translating research and innovations into action

Canadian children and youth with neurodevelopmental disabilities (NDD) and their families will benefit from a significant investment in the Kids Brain Health Network (KBHN) by the Strategic Science Fund of the Government of Canada .

Kids Brain Health Network is the first national nonprofit to focus on accelerating the implementation of solutions for neurodevelopmental disabilities. As a national network, it also receives significant funding and support from its many committed partner organisations. It aims to improve outcomes for children and young people with neurodevelopmental disabilities such as autism, cerebral palsy and fetal alcohol spectrum disorder by developing and disseminating evidence-based solutions in key areas such as early identification, intervention early, effective treatment and family support.

It is estimated that children and youth with neurodevelopmental disabilities make up 75% of youth with disabilities in Canada. It can take years to receive a diagnosis or get through the waiting list for other essential services such as occupational therapy or mental health support. For parents and caregivers, feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or isolated is not uncommon, nor is facing financial hardship as a result of trying to meet the needs of their children. Daily activities – such as eating, sleeping, playing and learning – can be extremely difficult for these children, especially when programs, services and infrastructure are not designed with inclusion and accessibility in mind.

“It doesn't have to be this way,” says Dr. James Reynolds, scientific director of the Kids Brain Health Network. “Researchers are developing evidence-based solutions to these problems. Our network bridges the gap between science and practice so that these solutions don't just remain on paper, but are implemented in the real world, where they can reach the people who need them."

For example, with the support of KBHN, clinical scientists have developed a program called Social ABC for young children with language delays or early signs of autism. Trainers instruct parents on how to improve their children's verbal communication and social interaction skills through everyday interactions. Groundbreaking research shows that intervening at an early age, when a child's brain is still rapidly developing, can make a lasting difference.

“Since I started the program I feel much more confident,” said one participating parent. “[My daughter's] accomplishments make us so happy. Every new word, every new action is the greatest happiness in the world, and I was part of it."

“Finding solutions for children and families living with neurodevelopmental disabilities is an excellent public investment,” says Geoff Pradella, co-chair of the KBHN board of directors. “Better tools, supports and assessment systems could actually reduce the costs of neurodevelopmental disabilities to taxpayers in the long term. And, most importantly, they will improve children's lifelong well-being and participation in society."

“The Canadian government has made a public commitment to 'a healthier future for all our children,'” Pradella added. “We know they believe, just as we do, that every child should be given the opportunity to realize their potential.”

Announced in 2021, the Strategic Science Fund invests in independent, non-profit organizations that are positioned to increase the quality of cutting-edge research in areas critical to the health, economic and social well-being of Canadians; develop, attract and retain world-class talent in these scientific areas; accelerate the translation of research findings into concrete actions; and strengthen evidence-based decision-making, innovation capacity development and scientific culture.

BlogInnovazione.it