About the study

Presentation

Since 1998, the Québec Longitudinal Study of Child Development, 1st edition (QLSCD 1) has been following a cohort of children born in Québec and their families. Given that Québec society has changed significantly over the past two decades, it is important to capture the reality of children born more than 20 years later and their families.

The Growing Up in Québec study, also called the Québec Longitudinal Study of Child Development, 2nd edition (QLSCD 2), was started to fulfill a need for knowledge about the development of children born in the early 2020s. This large-scale study will allow government and researchers to learn more about the living situation of children and to better understand the needs of families. This wealth of information will provide departments and agencies with up-to-date data that will help them design programs and policies that address the needs of young Québec families. Statistique Québec and its partners would like to continue the study until the children reach adulthood.

Growing Up in Québec is a longitudinal study, meaning that it is designed to follow the same children until adulthood, making it possible to establish connections between what happens to them at different times in their lives. Several similar studies have been underway in England, Scotland, Ireland, New Zealand, Australia and France for decades, and Growing Up in Québec is joining them!

What is the purpose of the study?

Watching thousands of babies grow up over several years will make it possible to better understand the role various factors play in the well-being and development of Québec children, for instance, their behaviours, their relations with their family and friends, their living environment, etc.

The study will also help identify key elements that support successful school entry, harmonious relations with parents and friends, school retention, and successful transition from school to adulthood.

Objectives

The main objective of the Growing Up in Québec study is to collect information from thousands of families in order to better understand the factors that can affect the development and well-being of Québec children. In addition to that main objective, the study also aims to:

  • Study the factors that can predict the adoption of healthy lifestyle habits and optimal health;

  • Determine the predictors of school retention and academic achievement;

  • Identify the processes that promote social adjustment;

  • Identify the factors associated with social mobility; and

  • Study the processes that lead to successful social and professional integration.

Themes covered

This is a multi-thematic study consistent with ecological and developmental approaches. It covers topics such as children’s sleep, nutrition and behaviour; work-family balance; health; and parenting.