Grant: SPOR Networks in Chronic Disease

The CHILD-BRIGHT network will achieve brighter futures for children with brain-based developmental disabilities (BDD) and their families by creating novel interventions to optimize development, promote healthy outcomes, and deliver responsive and supportive services across the life-course. Our vision is that all Canadian children with BDD can achieve optimal life outcomes. Together with youth and families, CHILD-BRIGHT'S pan-Canadian network includes an impactful patient-oriented research program, authentic citizen engagement, multi-pronged knowledge translation and patient-oriented training: 1) BRIGHT beginnings: We will bring experimental advances to human clinical studies to prevent brain injury and restore brain function to improve the health and well-being of the child and family. 2) BRIGHT supports: We will transform outcomes by integrating mental health support into the care of children with BDD who experience behavioural difficulties. 3) BRIGHT futures: We will redesign the healthcare system to be more responsive to family needs as their child develops through key transitions in their life-course. These programs are grounded in integrity and accountability, with the expectation of high innovation and influence. CHILD-BRIGHT is uniquely positioned for transformative impact on children and their families. "Our most vulnerable need a voice. As parents, we want to be that voice." [Parent of preterm twins; Director of Canadian Premature Babies Foundation]. CHILD-BRIGHT will listen and learn, and implement with high impact, working collaboratively with patients and families to ensure brighter futures by supporting children with disabilities and their families to promote resilience and health.