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Mindful Movement Programs in Community and University Preschools: Protocol for a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Jacinda K Dariotis1,2, Dana A Eldreth1, Rachel Jackson-Gordon1
1Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Family Resiliency Center, College of Agricultural, Consumer & Environmental Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States.
JMIR Research Protocols
|August 29, 2025
Summary
This study explored mindful movement practices (MMPs) for preschoolers to improve emotional regulation and behavior. Findings will guide future research on early childhood mindfulness interventions.
Area of Science:
- Child Development
- Psychology
- Education
Background:
- Early childhood emotional and cognitive regulation difficulties are linked to later life risky behaviors.
- Preschoolers require external support for managing emotions and behaviors as skills emerge.
- Mindful Movement Practices (MMPs) show potential for enhancing emotional and behavioral regulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- Assess feasibility and acceptability of MMPs in preschools.
- Explore MMPs' effects on preschoolers' social-emotional, cognitive, and physiological development.
- Enhance prosocial behaviors and reduce problem behaviors in young children.
Main Methods:
- Pilot randomized controlled trial in 3 preschool classrooms (2 intervention, 1 control).
- 16-week MMP program (physical activity, breathwork, reflection) for intervention groups.
- Data collection via behavioral tasks, biomarkers (heart rate variability, hair cortisol), and surveys; fidelity assessed through logs, notes, and observations.
Main Results:
- Study involved 32 preschoolers (ages 3-5) and 8 teachers.
- Data collected pre-intervention, mid-intervention, post-intervention, and 2 months later.
- Feasibility and acceptability data gathered through focus groups and interviews with teachers, parents, and administrators.
Conclusions:
- This paper outlines study procedures for a pilot randomized controlled trial.
- Future publications will present findings on MMP feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness.
- Results will inform larger trials to optimize early childhood mindfulness interventions.
