ThinkFirst Foundation Canada: A National Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Program

Abstract

The ThinkFirst Foundation Canada: A National Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Program, formally known as the National Head and Spinal Cord Injury Prevention Program, was first implemented nationally in 1986. The program helps prevent brain, spinal cord, and other traumatic injuries through education, research, and advocacy. It aims to help kids realize the importance of making safe choices to lower their risk for injuries. This program has had major influences on public policy initiatives and continues to expand to reach those most vulnerable to traumatic injuries. It offers research-validated, multilevel educational programs that have reached millions of young people nationally and internationally. ThinkFirst programs are effective and also highly regarded by teachers and educators, with 85% of teachers in Ontario rating the program as very good to excellent. Additionally, children who have participated in the program have demonstrated significant improvements in knowledge of safety and injury prevention strategies in comparison to control groups.