Researchers analyzed data from 1,560 participants to understand how mindfulness-based interventions affect executive function in children and teenagers. These programs were conducted in educational settings and focused on skills like inhibitory control, working memory, and cognitive flexibility, while excluding yoga-only sessions. The analysis combined results from multiple studies to see the overall effect of these practices on brain function and behavior.
The pooled results showed a small improvement in executive function, with a statistical effect size of 0.365. This positive effect was consistent across preschool and school-age children, as well as across different specific skills. Even after adjusting for potential publication bias, the results remained robust and entirely positive within the prediction interval.
Safety data were not reported in the included studies, so no adverse events or discontinuations were identified in this review. However, the certainty of the evidence is rated as moderate because of inconsistent definitions of executive function and the pooling of different outcome measures. Readers should view these findings as promising but not definitive proof of a cure or guaranteed benefit for every individual.
The main takeaway is that mindfulness training may offer a small boost to executive function skills in youth, but more research is needed to confirm these results and understand the long-term effects. This information helps educators and parents consider mindfulness as a potential supportive tool, while recognizing that individual results may vary.