ABSTRACT
Widespread interest in the practice and benefits of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) has led to an increase in research outputs on mindfulness, meditation, and related constructs. Indeed, mindfulness techniques are an increasingly popular practice used to improve cognitive development and academic performance. In typically developing children and adolescents, MBIs have been associated with enhanced cognitive domains such as attentional control, inhibitory control, and cognitive flexibility. Similarly, MBIs have been associated with improved emotional skills, increased emotion regulation, fewer behavioural problems, and greater empathy. Regarding academic skills, researchers have found a positive relationship between mindfulness and academic performance, but conclusions are less consistent. In sum, given the number of studies that provide evidence for the utility of such practices, this chapter contributes to understanding the impact of mindfulness on cognitive development and academic performance among children and adolescents.
