What are the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of children aged 5-12, and what are the particular issues for children with disabilities or chronic illnesses? A scoping review of the issues experienced and promising avenues for intervention.

COVID-19 has impacted the daily lives of everyone, including primary school-aged children aged 5 to 12 who may be experiencing stress and anxiety. Some children may be at higher risk of mental health problems, including those with disabilities or chronic conditions. We know that these children may be at higher risk of mental health problems than their peers, and confinement, reduced in-person services, and changes in routine can have a significant impact on them. This study will synthesize what is known about the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on all children aged 5 to 12, highlighting the particular impacts on students with disabilities or chronic conditions. The study will also explore risk and protective factors for children's mental health, as well as promising avenues for intervention to promote better mental health in these young people. The question that will guide the knowledge synthesis will be the following: What are the impacts of the pandemic on the mental health of children aged 5-12, and what are the specific issues for children with disabilities or chronic illnesses? Relevant information will be extracted from scientific literature and various reports. The information will be analyzed with a committee of partners including families and health and social services stakeholders. A consultation will be carried out to anchor the results of the knowledge synthesis in the Quebec context. The study's recommendations will support the mental health of all Canadian children aged 5 to 12 and concrete actions in Quebec related to confinement and the return to school. Particular attention will be paid to children with disabilities or chronic illnesses in order to promote health equity.