Citation

Vassilyadi M, Duquette C, Shamji MF, Orders S, Dagenais S. Can. J. Neurol. Sci. 2009; 36(6): 761-768.

Affiliation

Division of Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

Comment In:

Can J Neurol Sci 2009;36(6):675-6

Copyright

(Copyright © 2009, Canadian Journal of Neurological Sciences)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

19960757

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Head injury causes substantial morbidity and mortality in children. The ThinkFirst For Kids (TFFK) program improves knowledge of safe behaviours in kindergarten to Grade 6 students. METHODS: This study evaluated the TFFK curriculum for grade 7/8 students. Knowledge acquisition was assessed quantitatively by an injury prevention test at baseline, at curriculum completion, and six weeks later. Participant experiences and behaviours were explored qualitatively by interviews and focus groups. RESULTS: Students (n=204) and teachers (n=6) from four schools participated in this study. Test scores improved from baseline (26.48+/-0.17, n=204), to completion (27.75+/-0.16, n=176), to six weeks post-completion (28.65+/-0.13, n=111) (p<0.05). Most students reported their decision-making and participation in risky behaviors was altered by the curriculum. INTERPRETATION: The TFFK curriculum may promote education about head injury prevention among Grade 7/8 students, with a suggestion of long-term knowledge retention. The curriculum was well-received and may be suitable to reduce risky behavior and injuries in children.

Language: en