Peer health education in elementary schools: a scoping review

Children's perception of health is shaped by various socio-economic and family contexts. Schools represent a key setting for health promotion, and peer health education is increasingly recognised as an effective strategy. This study aimed to examine peer health education programmes in elementary schools, focusing on implementation, facilitating factors, barriers, and effects. A scoping review was conducted in accordance with The Joanna Briggs Institute recommendations. Five databases were searched. Studies involving children aged 6-12 as recipients and peer educators aged 6-15 were included. Although the literature specifically targeting this age group is limited, 10 studies could be analysed. Out of 149 articles were identified, 10 studies were retained. Peer education took two forms: same-age education and inter-age education. Topics included nutrition, hygiene, and physical activity. The included studies reported positive trends in participants' knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours. The involvement of the pupils and the integration of the interventions into the school curriculum were facilitating factors. Time constraints and the need for ongoing support were obstacles. Understanding the mechanisms of peer education is essential. Further research may inform the design and evaluation of future interventions and guide public policy.