Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

A new initiative is underway to better understand the well-being of Quebec families, with a focus
on the impact of digital technology on children’s lives. The National Survey on the Well-Being of
Quebec Families, now in its second edition, is being conducted by the English Parents
Committee Association (EPCA), the Fédération des comités de parents du Québec (FCPQ), the
Association pour la santé publique du Québec (ASPQ), and the Réseau québécois pour la
réussite éducative (RQRE), in collaboration with public health expert Dr. Mélissa Généreux.

The survey aims to collect insights from parents on how digital technology influences children’s
well-being, relationships, and development. Parents frequently face the challenge of balancing
screen time and online interactions, making their input essential for shaping future policies and
resources that support families.

All parents of elementary and high school students in Quebec are encouraged to participate.
The survey takes approximately ten minutes to complete and will remain open until February 17.
The results will be unveiled on May 31, during the FCPQ Annual National Event. Those
interested in contributing can access the survey at: https://udes.limesurvey.net/681162.
Last year’s survey, which gathered responses from over 14,000 parents, provided valuable
insights into family well-being amid social and economic challenges. Findings revealed that
screen time was a significant concern, with 30% of children in late elementary school engaging
in at least four hours of screen use on weekends. Heavy screen use was linked to lower energy
levels and reduced enjoyment of social interactions. Additionally, children with special needs
were found to be two to three times more likely to experience a low quality of life compared to
their peers, and their parents reported nearly twice the likelihood of experiencing fair to poor
mental health.

Organizers hope to surpass last year’s participation numbers to gain an even broader
understanding of the evolving challenges faced by families in Quebec. Parents are encouraged
to share the survey link and discuss it on social media using the hashtag #QuebecFamilySurvey
to maximize engagement.

Photo: The National Survey on the Well-Being of Quebec Families aims to gather insights on
how digital technology affects children’s well-being, helping to shape future policies and support
systems for families. (TF) Photo courtesy of the EPCA