A cost analysis of the MindUp “Early Years” mindfulness-based SEL program: Training, supplies, and implementation supports

To successfully implement and sustain programs, it is vital to understand the fiscal resources needed. This study provides a full accounting of costs to support high-quality implementation of a well-researched mindfulness-based social and emotional learning program in preschool settings. Teachers received MindUP training, the curriculum, supplies for the classroom, as well as ongoing support through communities of practice (COPs) and coaching phone calls. They were also compensated for engagement in training and supportive activities. Costs were gathered across three cohorts during an RCT of the MindUP-Early Years program in an urban area of the Pacific Northwest. The first cohort was conducted in person (19 classrooms). The second (14 classrooms) and third cohorts (15 classrooms) were conducted online. We used an ingredients approach to cost analysis (Levin, 1983) which includes identifying all necessary ingredients, determining the cost of those ingredients, and then evaluating those costs. Total cost per classroom was US$1503 for the in-person cohort and, on average, US$913 for online cohorts including: training, ongoing support, classroom supplies and curriculum, teacher opportunity costs, and administrative costs at 15%. Across all cohorts, the cost for Year 1 was US$64 per student. Because most training and supplies are purchased in the first year, costs for later years drop significantly. Future expected per student yearly costs range from less than US$1 to US$14 depending on additional support and resources provided. This cost analysis can provide educational administrators and other decision makers with a clear financial estimate of the resources needed for high-quality implementation of the MindUP program. Impact statement: This study presents a comprehensive cost analysis of MindUP-Early Years mindfulness-based SEL program implementation in preschool classrooms during a randomized controlled trial across three cohorts. Using an ingredients approach, it accounts for training, supplies, and ongoing support such as coaching and communities of practice. In-person implementation averaged US$1503 per classroom, while online delivery averaged US$913 across cohorts. Year 1's average cost per student was US$64, with future costs dropping to under US$14. These findings offer educational administrators a clear estimate of the financial and time resources required to adopt and sustain MindUP in early childhood settings.