Mountain CAP seeks to empower children by providing educational, mindfulness services

Lily Hicks
October 17, 2023

BUCKHANNON — Mountain CAP is dedicated to nurturing growth, self-awareness and education in children through a range of impactful programs, especially not that it’s established a significant presence on Main Street. For those don’t know, the Mountain CAP Family Support Center is located at 30 East Main Street in Buckhannon.

Here’s a look at some of Mountain CAP’s offerings:

Monthly Kidding Around Yoga

Since February of this year, Mountain CAP Services has been illuminating the lives of children and parents with its monthly “Kidding Around Yoga” sessions. This program is facilitated by a Certified Instructor and delves deep into the eight essential elements of yoga. These elements encompass Yama (ethical practices), Niyama (self-discipline standards), Asana (physical postures), Pranayama (breathing exercises), Pratyahara (control of the senses), Dharana (concentration), Dhyana (meditation) and Samadhi (union with the highest state).

“The Monthly Kidding Around Yoga sessions have quickly become the most attended event,” said Family Support Center Director Lise-Marie VanNostrand. “After the yoga session, a craft event follows, enhancing creativity and bonding among participants.”

The best part? It’s entirely free, making it accessible to all families in the community.

Monster Academy

Another cornerstone program offered by Mountain CAP Services is the Monster Academy, tailored for children ages 4-9. Rooted in the evidence-based Emotional ABCs curriculum, this initiative is instrumental in helping children understand, manage and express their emotions effectively.

“Children in this program work towards defining emotions, honing their ability to observe both their own and others’ emotional responses, developing an extensive emotional vocabulary, and recognizing the complexity of emotions,” said VanNostrand. “The focus extends to decoding facial and body language, vital skills in understanding and relating to the world around them. Moreover, children are guided in adopting a method of breathing that aids them in reflecting on their emotions.”

Monster Academy has already made a significant impact with two cohorts, catering to four-to-six-year-olds and seven-to-nine-year-olds. However, due to the temporary unavailability of a social worker, the next cohort is scheduled for Spring 2024.

Just like the Monthly Kidding Around Yoga sessions, Monster Academy is also entirely free, ensuring accessibility to all children in the community.

Weekly Tutoring K-5

For children in need of academic support, Mountain CAP Services collaborates with the Infinite Learning Place to offer Weekly Tutoring sessions for K-5 students.

“Every Monday evening, dedicated teachers from the Infinite Learning Place are on hand to provide guidance and assistance,” said VanNostrand. “This program is free (up to 10 children) who meet income guidelines.”

Stay posted on events at the Mountain CAP Family Support Center via Facebook.