How Brain-Computer Interfaces Are Changing Lives for Kids

In this episode of Advancing Health Care Through Simulation, host Lisa George sits down with Eli Kinney-Lang, Assistant Professor at the University of Calgary and Director of the engineering arm of the BCI for Kids Lab at the Alberta Children's Hospital.

Eli shares how brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) are creating new ways for children with complex neurological disabilities to interact with the world using brain signals to control devices, communicate and even play games.

The conversation breaks down the realities of BCI technology—what it is (and isn’t), how it works in practice and the real-world challenges of bringing it out of the lab and into everyday life.

Key themes in this episode include:

• what brain-computer interfaces actually look like in real-world use
• how BCIs help children bypass physical limitations to interact with technology
• the challenges of accessibility, including sensor design and real-world usability
• why designing for children is fundamentally different and more impactful than designing for adults
• the importance of inclusion, engagement, and user experience in pediatric technology
• how gaming is becoming a powerful tool for learning, connection, and skill-building
• the role of interdisciplinary collaboration in moving innovation from research to real life
• lessons from commercializing pediatric neurotechnology while maintaining a family-centered approach
• how play and social connection are often the biggest motivators for children, not just clinical outcomes
• what the future holds for pediatric neurotechnology, including AI, wearable systems, and scalable solutions

One of the most powerful moments in the episode highlights a child using BCI to independently move his wheelchair for the first time—demonstrating how small technological breakthroughs can create life-changing impact.

About:
NAIT Centre for Advanced Medical Simulation – Visit here

This series was produced by Road 55 in Edmonton, Alberta – Learn more at: road55.ca

What is Advancing Healthcare Through Simulation?

Welcome to Advancing Healthcare Through Simulation, a series exploring the critical role of simulation in shaping the future of healthcare. This series highlights NAIT's Centre for Advanced Medical Simulation (CAMS) as a hub for healthcare simulation, workforce development, and innovation.

Through conversations with experts, industry leaders, and educators, we’ll explore how simulation is transforming patient care, medical training, and healthcare innovation. Each episode is designed to enhance awareness and understanding of CAMS while positioning it as a leader in this rapidly evolving field.

Join us as we share strategic insights, compelling stories, and forward-thinking perspectives on the power of simulation in advancing healthcare.

To learn more, please visit: https://www.nait.ca/centre-for-advanced-medical-simulation