Research Summary
Concussions affect more than 1% of Ontarians each year—and children often face longer, more complicated recoveries. Dr. Nicholas Reed, Canada Research Chair in Pediatric Concussion, is working to improve how concussions in young people are recognized, managed and understood.
He and his research team are trying to change knowledge, attitudes and health behaviours regarding concussion through education tailored to children, families, schools and sports communities. By partnering with school boards, Special Olympics Canada, and families of young children, they are trying to reach three key groups: high school students, athletes with intellectual disabilities, and children under 12 in unstructured play. Using a mix of surveys, interviews and implementation science, Reed and his team are co-creating practical, scalable solutions with those most affected. They aim to close long-standing gaps in concussion research and ensure that vulnerable youth receive effective, inclusive support for prevention and recovery.