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Join us as we delve into the heart of KBHN and explore our mission to improve the lives of children with neurodevelopmental disabilities and their families. Hear from our CEO Geoff Pradella, Chief Scientist Dr. Jennifer Zwicker, Strategic Partnership Advisor Dr. James Reynolds, and the parents and kids whose lives KBHN has touched, as they share insights on our vision and the impactful work we’re doing under the Strategic Science Fund (SSF). |
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Watch our new video on an AI-powered wearable designed for sound-sensitive children. Funded by KBHN, this device filters out noises while keeping the rest of the sound environment, aiming to help families live more comfortably and freely. |
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KBHN is dedicated to turning groundbreaking research into real-world solutions for children with neurodevelopmental disabilities. We’ve established two funding streams—the Innovation Program and the Implementation Program—to achieve this goal.
Innovation Program Designed to support new projects with strong potential for immediate impact, the Innovation Program provides up to $100,000 per year for up to 2 years, requiring a 1:1 match from project partners.
Implementation Program Designed to support large-scale projects that bridge scientific innovation with national uptake, the Implementation Program offers up to $200,000 per year for up to 2 years, requiring a 1:1 match from project partners.
KBHN is committed to funding research that delivers measurable benefits and enhances the quality of life for children and families across Canada. |
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| Bringing mental health support to Black caregivers through Acceptance and Commitment Training (ACT)
Sheila Phillips shares her experience caring for her son Taijai, who has Autism and an intellectual disability, as well as a chromosomal deletion, leading her to the Acceptance and Commitment Training (ACT) program. Learn how ACT is empowering caregivers, particularly in Black and Indigenous communities, and why prioritizing wellbeing is crucial for supporting children with neurodevelopmental disabilities. |
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| Kim van der Hoek as Chief Operating OfficerAs the Network’s inaugural COO, Kim brings extensive experience building programs into innovation centres and leading multidisciplinary teams. In her previous role as the Director of Operations and Administration, she spearheaded initiatives focused on enhancing operational efficiency and cultivating partnerships. Read more… |
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| Dr. Jennifer Zwicker as Chief ScientistDr. Zwicker, former Deputy Scientific Officer, brings extensive experience in leading research programs that inform disability policies, having spearheaded KBHN’s national training program to nurture the next generation of researchers in support of children with neurodevelopmental disabilities. Read more… |
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| Dr. James Reynolds as Strategic Partnership Advisor to the CEODr. Reynolds, former Chief Scientific Officer, helped establish KBHN as a national not-for-profit for children with neurodevelopmental disabilities and will now work with CEO Geoff Pradella to build partnerships for implementing and scaling research projects. Read more… |
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| Corey Fortier as Director of Implementation and ProgramsCorey comes with extensive leadership experience in pediatric and neurodevelopmental health, including roles with Children’s Healthcare Canada and CHEO’s Neurodevelopmental Health program. His passion for bridging gaps in healthcare services and innovative approach will be a great asset to our team. Read more… |
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| Geil Astorga as Communications ManagerGeil brings a wealth of experience in translating research into practical interventions. With a background in communications, health science, and strategic marketing, Geil has a proven track record in engaging patients and stakeholders. Her expertise in multimedia and knowledge translation will enhance our outreach and impact. Read more… |
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KBHN is looking for qualified individuals to help shape the future of neurodevelopmental health. Our Programs Advisory Committee plays a crucial role in evaluating proposals and selecting impactful initiatives that improve outcomes for children with neurodevelopmental disabilities and their families.
We invite applications from diverse backgrounds, including: Individuals with Lived Experience (family members, caregivers, or youth) Implementation and Evaluation Specialists Commercialization Experts Academic Scholars in related fields Policy Leaders Clinical Practitioners
KBHN is deeply committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion, encouraging applicants from underrepresented groups, including women, Indigenous Peoples, persons with disabilities, and members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community.
If interested, submit your resume (optional for those with lived experience) and a one-page statement of interest to research@kidsbrainhealth.ca by November 8, 2024. |
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We’re excited to share the success of the Red Shoes Rock event, held on September 8, 2024, at the Ron Kolbus Centre, Britannia Beach in Ottawa. Sponsored by KBHN, this event celebrated the strengths and achievements of individuals with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).
KBHN's commitment to supporting children with neurodevelopmental conditions and their families was clearly reflected in the impact of Red Shoes Rock. Events like this are crucial in raising awareness and promoting understanding, and we’re proud to have contributed to this celebration of FASD.
We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended and helped make the event a success. |
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KBHN sponsors Children’s Healthcare Canada’s 2024 Annual Conference |
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| Connect with KBHN CEO Geoff Pradella and COO Kim van der Hoek at the Children's Healthcare Canada Annual Conference on October 20-22. This year's theme, "Right-Sizing Health Systems for Kids: Navigating to Brighter Futures," will explore how to enhance healthcare systems to better serve children, youth, and families. The event is co-hosted by the Janeway Children's Hospital Foundation and NL Health Services. |
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Submit an abstract for EKO Spring Symposium 2025 |
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| Share your work with the child development sector! Abstract submission for posters and presentations at the EKO Spring Symposium 2025 is now open.
The EKO Spring Symposium 2025 is where members and stakeholders come together to celebrate and share insights, research findings, and data to elevate clinical practice, programs, and corporate services—ultimately improving experiences and outcomes so kids with disabilities and developmental differences live their best lives. |
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Canada Post Community Foundation grants $15,000 to Kids Brain Health Foundation |
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Kids Brain Health Foundation has been awarded a $15,000 grant from the Canada Post Community Foundation to help launch the Nurturing the Seed (NTS) program in partnership with several Indigenous communities across British Columbia.
NTS is a groundbreaking, two-eyed seeing program that integrates evidence-based approaches with Indigenous worldviews and practices. By engaging caregivers, community members, and both Indigenous and non-Indigenous practitioners, the program focuses on identifying and addressing developmental delays in children. This unique blend of early mental health science with culturally relevant values, rituals, and parenting practices ensures a holistic and inclusive approach to childhood development.
A heartfelt thank you to the Canada Post Community Foundation for your commitment to co-created, culturally safe, and trauma-informed programs. Their support is vital in promoting healthy development and empowering communities. |
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Kids Brain Health Network, situated at Simon Fraser University (SFU) Burnaby, respectfully acknowledges the unceded traditional territories of the Coast Salish peoples, including the səl̓ilw̓ətaʔɬ (Tsleil-Waututh), kʷikʷəƛ̓əm (Kwikwetlem), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish) and xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) Nations.
Le Réseau pour la santé du cerveau des enfants, situé au sein de l’Université Simon Fraser (SFU) de Burnaby, reconnaît respectueusement les territoires traditionnels non cédés des peuples Salish de la Côte, notamment les nations səl̓ilw̓ ətaʔɬ (Tsleil-Waututh), kʷikʷəƛ̓ əm (Kwikwetlem), Sḵwx̱ wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish) et xʷməθkʷəy̓ əm (Musqueam). |
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