The MindUp curriculum, developed by the Goldie Hawn Foundation in Los Angeles, California, USA, combines cognitive neuroscience, positive psychology and mindful awareness training to help children develop social and emotional skills.

The program is composed of 15 lessons supported by neuroscience. Students learn about the inner workings of the brain and, through guided exercises, learn to mindfully engage in focused concentration, and to regulate their behavior. The curriculum includes ‘core’ practices of deep breathing and attentive listening, which are to be used several times a day throughout the school year.

Research on the efficacy of the MindUp program shows positive effects on executive functions and social behavior, and higher levels of self-reported happiness. Furthermore, MindUp is recognized by CASEL as a “SELect” program.