Project Overview

KidsAction is an evidence-informed coaching approach for children with disabilities. We co-designed it with families, community groups and Indigenous partners to support children and families in community physical activity programs.
Our key partners are Northern BC Indigenous dance leaders Symbia Barnaby (Haida Nation) and Dayna Nelson (Nisga’a Nation). Our shared goal is to increase access to supports for kids with disabilities wherever they live. We bring different teachings and experiences, which we can share with each other.
Together we will make changes to KidsAction so it works well for the Haida and Nisga’a dance programs. These programs offer a way for children to connect to culture, which is a key part of Indigenous health.
Our plans are to:
1. Set up KidsAction in 2 cultural dance programs in Prince Rupert;
2. Identify what works best when implementing in Indigenous settings;
3. Journey with families and community to measure the impact of the work;
4. Apply this learning with other Indigenous groups in and outside BC; and
5. Share how we blended Indigenous and Western ways to improve the way research is done.
Together, we will make sure physical activity programs are culturally safe and meet the needs of each child.

Principal Investigator

Stephanie Glegg , University of British Columbia

Team Members

Lise Olsen, University of British Columbia Okanagan

Tara Nault

Symbia Barnaby

Dayna Nelson

Rachel Schmidt, Special Olympics BC

Linda Martin, Saskatchewan Polytechnic

Dave Sora, Centre for Accessible Sport & Play

Kari-Ann Leadbitter, Victoria Native Friendship Centre

Partners and Donors

Kids Brain Health Network

Michael Smith Health Research

Prince Rupert Civic Centre

Victoria Native Friendship Centre

Saskatchewan Polytechnic

Special Olympica BC