Introducing Connect Quest: supporting student well-being through connection
When connection is placed at the centre of learning, students are better equipped to make healthy choices—Connect Quest makes that approach practical and accessible.
In today’s fast-paced, digitally connected world, supporting student well-being requires more than just information–it requires meaningful connection. Research continues to show that strong connections to self, peers, family, school and nature are powerful protective factors that support healthy coping, informed decision-making and overall mental health.
That’s why we’re excited to introduce Connect Quest, a new student-informed resource designed to support substance use health and balanced device use through the power of connection.
What is Connect Quest?
Connect Quest is a practical, flexible resource for students in grades 4 to 8 that is grounded in research and shaped by student voice. It offers engaging, ready-to-use activities alongside implementation supports that make it easy to integrate into a variety of school contexts.
At its core, Connect Quest helps students strengthen connections:
- to themselves (self-awareness and identity)
- to peers (relationships and belonging)
- to family
- to their school community and nature
These connections play a critical role in promoting well-being and reducing risk factors associated with substance use and unhealthy device habits.
Background
Designed with direct input from Ontario students in grades 4-8, Connect Quest contains engaging and interactive activities that reflect the perspectives and experiences of young people. It was developed through consultations with 459 students across nine school districts and their educators, with additional support from student working groups who helped shape its themes and activities. Subject matter experts in substance use health and balanced device use also reviewed the content to ensure accuracy and relevance.
Connect Quest aims to support student well-being by building knowledge, fostering connection and supporting students to make healthy, informed choices by:
- providing accurate, age-appropriate information about substance use health and balanced device use
- strengthening students’ sense of belonging and connection
- building knowledge and skills related to coping strategies and help-seeking
- reducing stigma by encouraging open, compassionate conversations
- supporting students in reflecting on their habits, choices and values
- fostering and encouraging student leadership opportunities
Why connection matters
Connection is more than a nice-to-have. It is a key protective factor that helps young people:
- build resilience and coping skills
- make informed, healthy decisions
- develop a strong sense of belonging
- navigate challenges related to substance use and digital engagement
Connect Quest places connection at the centre, helping students build the skills and confidence they need to thrive.
In addition to the student-facing activities, Connect Quest contains information and resources for school staff about:
- why connection is such a critical protective factor for substance use health and balanced device use
- how the resource was developed in partnership with students and educators
- ways to integrate Connect Quest into existing priorities and initiatives within your school or board
Key features of Connect Quest
How to use it
School leaders and school staff will find a range of supports designed for real world use, including:
- ready-to-use classroom activities
- opportunities for student leadership and voice
- flexible implementation options for classrooms, small groups and school wide initiatives
- guidance aligned with evidence informed practices
- accompanying materials to support parents and caregivers to extend the learning and strengthen connections at home
Mobilizer materials
For additional materials to support implementation, explore the mobilizer package, which includes:
- website walkthrough video
- brief overview document
- key messages
Who should use it
Connect Quest can be used by any board or school staff supporting student leadership and well-being initiatives, including:
- board mental health leadership teams
- educators and student support staff
- system and school administrators
Summary
By centering connection, Connect Quest offers a meaningful and practical way to support student well-being in today’s complex world.
We invite you to explore the resource and consider how it can support the important work already happening in your schools and communities.