Researchers at the University of Manitoba are studying the effects of a mindfulness training program called Paws.b on social and emotional learning in children aged 7-11 with autism spectrum disorder. Paws.b teaches children about the structure and functions of the brain and how each part affects focus, decision making, and regulating emotions and body. The goal is to help children manage behavior, relationships, academics, and emotional wellbeing through skills taught in individual and group lessons using audio, video, and activities. There is no cost to participate in the study and interested families should contact the Social Cognition Lab.

1. What’s this about: Researchers at the University of Manitoba are looking at the impact of
mindfulness based training on social and emotional learning in children aged 7-11 living with
autism spectrum disorder. The training program, Paws .b, teaches children about different parts
of the brain and how they are structured. Paws .b also teaches them how each part of the brain
affects their ability to focus, make good choices, and steady their bodies and minds when they
feel busy or out of balance. Children are taught skills that can help them manage behaviour,
relationships, and academic skills, as well as help support their emotional wellbeing.
Lessons present information using audio and video as well as individual and group activities.
Example: Classes will be held Tuesday evenings at St. Amant in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Want to know more: There will be no cost to participate in the study. If you know a child
between 7 and 11 years of age who may be interested please contact the Social Cognition Lab
at the University of Manitoba by email socialcognitionlab@umanitoba.ca or by calling
(204)474-9629.
Faculty members supervising this project:
Dr. Janine Montgomery, Janine.montgomery@umanitoba.ca
Dr. Toby Martin, Toby.martin@umanitoba.ca
Mindfulness Training
for Children with
Autism