Emily's dedication to research recently netted the university and greater Annapolis Valley community a significant win: $1.1 million in funding to create the Acadia University Inclusive Movement and Health Lab within the Acadia Athletics Complex. The Canadian Foundation for Innovation John R. Evans Leaders Fund has contributed $458,290, a sum matched by Research Nova Scotia. Other contributions topped up the funds.
"The new lab space will be close to 1,500 square feet, with specialized equipment and spaces to assess movement skills and run physical activity interventions and programs for children and youth with disabilities," Bremer says. "There will also be a space for cognitive and behavioural assessments as well as a nice space for honours and graduate students to work and collaborate. Having that space and equipment opens a lot of doors for the students for training and the breadth of research they can do."
The lab will also support Bremer's continuing work assessing Acadia's S.M.I.LE. program. S.M.I.L.E. provides an opportunity for individuals with disabilities to develop their physical literacy in a fun and supportive environment.
COMMUNITY BENEFITS
Although the bulk of Bremer's research is focused on those with disabilities, she also does research in the wider community, such as in schools with before- and after-school programming or daily physical activity within schools.
"Having this dedicated space will enable us to run studies efficiently and ensure we're using a rigorous approach," Bremer says. "But another benefit is particularly important for children with neurodevelopmental disabilities such as autism and ADHD. We'll be able to limit distractions and give kids the best chance to do well."
The lab will be accessible, with a welcoming and comfortable reception area for parents and caregivers. "Over the longer term, I think bringing community into the space will happen organically," she says.
GETTING KIDS MOVING
Bremer is passionate about the need to teach children and youth the skills to be physically active so they can reap social benefits as well as physical health benefits. "As a mother, I see this in my kids," she says. "I have a two-and-a-half-year-old and a seven-month-old. The seven-month-old is wanting to walk and holds herself up to stand all the time, and it's fun seeing that development and thinking about my training. And the two-and-a-half-year-old loves running around and playing outdoors. I can see how good that is, not only physically but in helping her regulate her mood and behaviour.
"It excites me to keep doing this research and think about how we can get all kids moving when I see how meaningful it is in my own kids. I want to make sure we can provide those opportunities for everyone."
