Inclusive Physical Activity for Kids: KidsAction and Indigenous Dance Programs in Northern BC

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.