BCI4Kids

The BCI4Kids is a child- and family- centered clinical research program that provides opportunities for children with severe physical disabilities to access cutting-edge brain-computer interface (BCI) technology. BCIs are emerging as a promising access technology, as they analyze and interpret non-invasively recorded brain signals to control applications without needing any reliable or functional physical movements. Our program connects children with physical disabilities in the Calgary area with BCI technology, and our team works with them to achieve personalized goals using the technology. Through their experience, feedback, concerns and interests, the children and families in the program directly inform pediatric BCI research and help to drive pediatric BCI development. The BCI program developed as a result of our strong commitment to the belief that all children have the right to independence, interaction and play, and we are dedicated to developing and providing access to technology that directly addresses the needs of the children we work with.

Upon entering the program, the participating child and their parent(s)/guardian(s) will be invited to attend a set of introductory sessions at our facility at the Alberta Children's Hospital where they can try out some of our different BCI systems. Throughout these sessions, families will learn more about our different BCI systems, what they could be used for, and the technology underlying them. Since BCI is not a "one size fits all" solution, this will help us see what system(s) could work best for the child, and what kinds of activities or tasks they might be able to use BCI for. Then, with the help of our clinical team, families will set a goal with their child to work towards using one of our BCI systems. Our technical team will then step in to make sure we have adjusted, adapted or personalized the technology to ensure that the child has everything they need to reach their goal. 

The child will then work towards their goal, with the support of our entire team. Families will be given resources to help track their child's progress, there will be motivational incentives for the child as they work through different stages of the goal, and our team will be there to help guide and make adjustments to the goal as the child gains more experience with the BCI system. The technical team will also be on hand to make further adaptations or add additional features to the BCI system or applications as needed. 

While BCI technology is a very exciting and up-and-coming field, it is important to remember that at this time, BCI is not intended to replace existing access technologies. It is meant to augment or provide an additional option to existing access methods, especially for entertainment and environmental control. At this time, BCI is not considered a reliable method for accessing alternative and augmentative communication (AAC) devices, or for operating power wheelchairs. However, the more we work with our participants and families within our BCI program, the closer we get to BCI as a comprehensive access technology. Your participation in the BCI4Kids program will help stimulate research and technical development that will drive the entire field of BCI research forward. 

Please note that due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we are running a modified version of the BCI program, operating mostly from home, to minimize non-essential trips to the hospital for both families and staff.