Journal article

Feasibility of the Early Minds Program by Smiling Mind: a Pilot Cluster-Randomized-Controlled Trial

ETS Sexton, J Sheehan, NT Van Dam, A Grobler, L Phillips, M Yaari, H Hiscock

Mindfulness | Published : 2022

Abstract

Objectives: While there is increasing interest in mindfulness-informed programs to support preschooler social, emotional, and cognitive development, evaluation of feasibility and efficacy is required prior to implementing such programs within the early education setting. This study evaluated the feasibility of an 8-week, app-based, educator-delivered, mindfulness-informed program, Early Minds by Smiling Mind. An established framework was used to assess demand, acceptability, implementation, practicality, (adequate) adaptation, integration, and limited efficacy testing. Limited efficacy testing explored program use on preschoolers’ internalizing, externalizing, prosocial behaviors, and execut..

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Grants

Awarded by National Health and Medical Research Council


Funding Acknowledgements

The study was funded by the Ian Potter Foundation (grant number 20170372) awarded to Smiling Mind. Smiling Mind contracted MCRI to undertake this research. Research methods, protocols, and the decision to submit the final manuscript for publication were independent of the funders. Smiling Mind reviewed the manuscript for intellectual property but had no input on the content. HH is funded by a National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Career Development Fellowship (1068947). NTV is funded by the Contemplative Studies Centre, established by a philanthropic gift from the Three Springs Foundation Pty Ltd. MCRI is supported by the Victorian Government's Operational Infrastructure Support Program.