Brain Waves is a national brain and spinal cord injury prevention program overseen by Parachute, Canada’s national injury prevention organization. BCIRPU is the provincial delivery partner for Brain Waves and the training site for volunteers in BC.

Through this program, the BCIRPU delivers free, informative, and fun neuroscience presentations for student in grades 4 to 6. Presentations take place in-person at BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, and they can be delivered virtually. The program is designed to align with the themes of basic anatomy and functions of the brain, nervous system, and spinal cord that are built within the school curriculum.

Key highlights of the program include proper helmet fitting and stresses to children the importance of protecting themselves and their brains from preventable injuries.

Trained college and university student volunteers from diverse academic fields including neuroscience, medicine, nursing, physical education, and kinesiology deliver virtual or in-class presentations via video vignettes, stories, demonstrations, games, and activities. To ensure the safety and security of the program, all the volunteers are registered through the BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute and undergo a Criminal Record Check. BCIRPU provides a comprehensive orientation and training to the registered volunteers.
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If you have any questions about the program, please contact bcinjury@bcchr.ca.
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‍Brain Waves Activity Booklet (PDF)
‍Nikki the Little Neuron (PDF)
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Video Lessons