Events
Info Session: Potty Training Children with Down Syndrome: Lose the Diapers, Not Your Patience (Virtual)
Toilet training is an incredibly complex and often frustrating process for families. Join us in this virtual information session, Dr. Lina Patel will review the medical, physical, behavioral, emotional, and environmental factors that impact children with Down syndrome more significantly. Participants will learn practical strategies to address these challenges and leave with the tools to create an individualized toilet training plan for their child
DSANV Reading Program: Phonics the R-igh-t Way
Empowering Families. Building Lifelong Readers.
DSANV is proud to launch the DSANV Reading Program: Phonics the R-ight-t Way — a 9-month pilot literacy program designed to equip parents with the tools and confidence to teach reading to their loved one with Down syndrome (ages 3 and up).
This innovative program, already one of our most well-attended pilots, features the nationally recognized Raising Robust Readers curriculum and provides families with hands-on resources to build stronger literacy foundations at home.
Program Snapshot
Timeline: September 2025 – June 2026 (no session in December)
Format: 18 sessions (monthly in-person workshops at Burke Centre Library + monthly virtual sessions on Wednesday evenings)
Instructor: Certified teacher with expertise in literacy and Down syndrome education
Included Resources: Lifetime access to the Raising Robust Readers online program, Phonics the Right Way for Down Syndrome book, and FUN-O-Guide learning tool (the first 8 families received this $105 resource free, courtesy of DSANV)
LOCATION: Burke Centre Library 5935 Freds Oak Rd, Burke Centre, VA 22015
In-Person Session Dates (2025–2026)
September 17, 2025
October 15, 2025
November 19, 2025
(No December Session – Holiday Break)
January 21, 2026
February 18, 2026
March 18, 2026
April 15, 2026
May 20, 2026
June 17, 2026
Why It Matters
Families gain practical, research-based strategies to support literacy development at every stage
Parents connect with a community of peers learning side-by-side
This pilot reflects DSANV’s commitment to offering high-impact, evidence-based programming that empowers families
Registration Status
Registration for the DSANV Reading Program: Phonics the R-ight-t Way is now closed.
We are thrilled by the overwhelming response and will share updates and future opportunities with our community as this program unfolds.
Info Session: Youth Anti-Bullying (Virtual)
Join us for an educational seminar designed for youths and their families to address the various types of bullying. This session provides a safe space for coaches and participants to share their stories while engaging in an easy-to-learn Martial Arts curriculum.
DSANV Coffee Meet-Up
Join DSANV at SimplyBe Coffee for an informal meet-up with fellow parents of children with Down syndrome. Grab a cup, sit back, and chat! Children are welcome! No registration required.
D.A.D.S Meet-Up
Featuring good food/drinks, conversation, and fun. Come out for the evening and relax with friends- new and old! All dads and male caregivers of individuals with Down syndrome are welcome!
Dash and Scout Independent Living Retreat (Ladies 18+ only)
Independent Living Retreats & Camps
Dave’s Place
Dave’s Place is a transformative independent living retreat experience aimed at improving essential life skills and problem solving. This is an opportunity to learn about:
· Living away from home with other roommates.
· Develop friendships with peers.
· Create skills that will help in the workplace.
· Become a contributing member of the household in which they live.
· Work together as a team, social etiquette, conversation skills, personal boundaries, expressing and identifying emotions, nonverbal communication and stress management.
· Occupy free time, plan social events, enhance time management skills, explore interests, develop hobbies, etc.
· Kitchen management, household chores, safety and emergency training, simple household repairs, and decision-making.
Career Development
DSANV is partnering with the St. Lucy Food Project Warehouse for our Career Development Program. All members ages 16+ are welcome!
Dash and Scout Independent Living Retreat (Guys 18+ only)
Independent Living Retreats & Camps
Dave’s Place
Dave’s Place is a transformative independent living retreat experience aimed at improving essential life skills and problem solving. This is an opportunity to learn about:
· Living away from home with other roommates.
· Develop friendships with peers.
· Create skills that will help in the workplace.
· Become a contributing member of the household in which they live.
· Work together as a team, social etiquette, conversation skills, personal boundaries, expressing and identifying emotions, nonverbal communication and stress management.
· Occupy free time, plan social events, enhance time management skills, explore interests, develop hobbies, etc.
· Kitchen management, household chores, safety and emergency training, simple household repairs, and decision-making.
NDSS Advocacy Conference
The National Down Syndrome Society is hosting its annual advocacy event in DC and all are invited to participate!
FOR: Individuals with Down syndrome of all ages & their families
DETAILS: Learn More HERE
DSANV Coffee Meet-Up
Join DSANV at Ridgetop Coffee & Tea for an informal meet-up with fellow parents of children with Down syndrome. Grab a cup, sit back, and chat! Children are welcome! No registration required.
DSANV Reading Program: Phonics the R-igh-t Way
Empowering Families. Building Lifelong Readers.
DSANV is proud to launch the DSANV Reading Program: Phonics the R-ight-t Way — a 9-month pilot literacy program designed to equip parents with the tools and confidence to teach reading to their loved one with Down syndrome (ages 3 and up).
This innovative program, already one of our most well-attended pilots, features the nationally recognized Raising Robust Readers curriculum and provides families with hands-on resources to build stronger literacy foundations at home.
Program Snapshot
Timeline: September 2025 – June 2026 (no session in December)
Format: 18 sessions (monthly in-person workshops at Burke Centre Library + monthly virtual sessions on Wednesday evenings)
Instructor: Certified teacher with expertise in literacy and Down syndrome education
Included Resources: Lifetime access to the Raising Robust Readers online program, Phonics the Right Way for Down Syndrome book, and FUN-O-Guide learning tool (the first 8 families received this $105 resource free, courtesy of DSANV)
LOCATION: Burke Centre Library 5935 Freds Oak Rd, Burke Centre, VA 22015
In-Person Session Dates (2025–2026)
September 17, 2025
October 15, 2025
November 19, 2025
(No December Session – Holiday Break)
January 21, 2026
February 18, 2026
March 18, 2026
April 15, 2026
May 20, 2026
June 17, 2026
Why It Matters
Families gain practical, research-based strategies to support literacy development at every stage
Parents connect with a community of peers learning side-by-side
This pilot reflects DSANV’s commitment to offering high-impact, evidence-based programming that empowers families
Registration Status
Registration for the DSANV Reading Program: Phonics the R-ight-t Way is now closed.
We are thrilled by the overwhelming response and will share updates and future opportunities with our community as this program unfolds.
D.A.D.S Meet-Up
Featuring good food/drinks, conversation, and fun. Come out for the evening and relax with friends- new and old! All dads and male caregivers of individuals with Down syndrome are welcome!
Career Development
DSANV is partnering with The St. Lucy Food Project Warehouse for our Career Development Program. All members ages 16+ are welcome!
DSANV Coffee Meet-Up
Join DSANV at Ridgetop Coffee & Tea for an informal meet-up with fellow parents of children with Down syndrome. Grab a cup, sit back, and chat! Children are welcome! No registration required.
DSANV Reading Program: Phonics the R-igh-t Way
Empowering Families. Building Lifelong Readers.
DSANV is proud to launch the DSANV Reading Program: Phonics the R-ight-t Way — a 9-month pilot literacy program designed to equip parents with the tools and confidence to teach reading to their loved one with Down syndrome (ages 3 and up).
This innovative program, already one of our most well-attended pilots, features the nationally recognized Raising Robust Readers curriculum and provides families with hands-on resources to build stronger literacy foundations at home.
Program Snapshot
Timeline: September 2025 – June 2026 (no session in December)
Format: 18 sessions (monthly in-person workshops at Burke Centre Library + monthly virtual sessions on Wednesday evenings)
Instructor: Certified teacher with expertise in literacy and Down syndrome education
Included Resources: Lifetime access to the Raising Robust Readers online program, Phonics the Right Way for Down Syndrome book, and FUN-O-Guide learning tool (the first 8 families received this $105 resource free, courtesy of DSANV)
LOCATION: Burke Centre Library 5935 Freds Oak Rd, Burke Centre, VA 22015
In-Person Session Dates (2025–2026)
September 17, 2025
October 15, 2025
November 19, 2025
(No December Session – Holiday Break)
January 21, 2026
February 18, 2026
March 18, 2026
April 15, 2026
May 20, 2026
June 17, 2026
Why It Matters
Families gain practical, research-based strategies to support literacy development at every stage
Parents connect with a community of peers learning side-by-side
This pilot reflects DSANV’s commitment to offering high-impact, evidence-based programming that empowers families
Registration Status
Registration for the DSANV Reading Program: Phonics the R-ight-t Way is now closed.
We are thrilled by the overwhelming response and will share updates and future opportunities with our community as this program unfolds.
iCan Bike Camp
The vast majority of people with disabilities never experience the thrill of independently riding a two-wheel bicycle during their lifetime. Recent research shows that over 80% of people with Autism and 90% of people with Down syndrome never learn to ride a two-wheel bicycle. iCan Bike defies those odds! The program builds on more than twenty years of research at the University of Illinois. Join us for camp the week of June 22nd!
DSANV Park Meet-Up
Kickoff the summer season with your friends from DSANV! Cool down in Hanson Regional Park’s splash pad or explore one of its many playgrounds.
DSANV Coffee Meet-Up
Join DSANV at SimplyBe Coffee for an informal meet-up with fellow parents of children with Down syndrome. Grab a cup, sit back, and chat! Children are welcome! No registration required.
iCan Swim Camp Week 1
DSANV is partnering with iCan Shine to bring the iCan Swim Camp to Northern Virginia. Teaching people with disabilities to swim is not only a good idea, it’s essential. Creating an effective swimming program for people with disabilities takes a patient understanding of each swimmer as well as a well-thought-out plan for how the lessons can be adapted to each child. This is the foundation of our iCan Swim program.
iCan Swim Camp Week 2
DSANV is partnering with iCan Shine to bring the iCan Swim Camp to Northern Virginia. Teaching people with disabilities to swim is not only a good idea, it’s essential. Creating an effective swimming program for people with disabilities takes a patient understanding of each swimmer as well as a well-thought-out plan for how the lessons can be adapted to each child. This is the foundation of our iCan Swim program.
DSANV Coffee Meet-Up
Join DSANV at Ridgetop Coffee & Tea for an informal meet-up with fellow parents of children with Down syndrome. Grab a cup, sit back, and chat! Children are welcome! No registration required.
DSANV Coffee Meet-Up
Join DSANV at SimplyBe Coffee for an informal meet-up with fellow parents of children with Down syndrome. Grab a cup, sit back, and chat! Children are welcome! No registration required.
DSANV Coffee Meet-Up
Join DSANV at Ridgetop Coffee & Tea for an informal meet-up with fellow parents of children with Down syndrome. Grab a cup, sit back, and chat! Children are welcome! No registration required.
Career Development
DSANV is partnering with the St. Lucy Food Project Warehouse for our Career Development Program. All members ages 16+ are welcome!
World Down Syndrome Day EXTRAVAGANZA 2026
Event Description:
Join us for the World Down Syndrome Day Party!
Featuring food trucks, a DJ, and fun! Shop our “Made with Heart Market” showcasing hand-crafted items from talented individuals with Down syndrome, paired with local businesses that embrace inclusive hiring. You wont want to miss our 18+ VIP area with karaoke.
Cost:
FREE for our VIPs (Person with Down Syndrome)
$15 Adult Ticket
$10 Child Ticket
FREE Child 2 years and under
Registration: WDSD EXTRAVAGANZA
This is an inclusive event. All ages and abilities are welcome! This is a family and community event. It is not a drop-off event. Bring your friends and family- the more, the merrier!
WDSD Park Meet-Up
Let WDSD Weekend begin! Stop by the park next to South Run Recreation Center for a relaxed meet-up with fellow DSANV families. All ages welcome!
D.A.D.S Meet-Up
Featuring good food/drinks, conversation, and fun. Come out for the evening and relax with friends- new and old! All dads and male caregivers of individuals with Down syndrome are welcome!
DSANV Dine-Out: The Casual Pint
Dine out with DSANV during WDSD Week! Bring your family and friends to The Casual Pint for a meal together — that benefits DSANV!
DSANV Reading Program: Phonics the R-igh-t Way
Empowering Families. Building Lifelong Readers.
DSANV is proud to launch the DSANV Reading Program: Phonics the R-ight-t Way — a 9-month pilot literacy program designed to equip parents with the tools and confidence to teach reading to their loved one with Down syndrome (ages 3 and up).
This innovative program, already one of our most well-attended pilots, features the nationally recognized Raising Robust Readers curriculum and provides families with hands-on resources to build stronger literacy foundations at home.
Program Snapshot
Timeline: September 2025 – June 2026 (no session in December)
Format: 18 sessions (monthly in-person workshops at Burke Centre Library + monthly virtual sessions on Wednesday evenings)
Instructor: Certified teacher with expertise in literacy and Down syndrome education
Included Resources: Lifetime access to the Raising Robust Readers online program, Phonics the Right Way for Down Syndrome book, and FUN-O-Guide learning tool (the first 8 families received this $105 resource free, courtesy of DSANV)
LOCATION: Burke Centre Library 5935 Freds Oak Rd, Burke Centre, VA 22015
In-Person Session Dates (2025–2026)
September 17, 2025
October 15, 2025
November 19, 2025
(No December Session – Holiday Break)
January 21, 2026
February 18, 2026
March 18, 2026
April 15, 2026
May 20, 2026
June 17, 2026
Why It Matters
Families gain practical, research-based strategies to support literacy development at every stage
Parents connect with a community of peers learning side-by-side
This pilot reflects DSANV’s commitment to offering high-impact, evidence-based programming that empowers families
Registration Status
Registration for the DSANV Reading Program: Phonics the R-ight-t Way is now closed.
We are thrilled by the overwhelming response and will share updates and future opportunities with our community as this program unfolds.
DSANV Dine-Out: California Pizza Kitchen
Dine out with DSANV during WDSD Week! Bring your family and friends to California Pizza Kitchen (Fairfax Corner) for a meal together — that benefits DSANV!
Info Session: IEP Q&A
Join DSANV for an informative evening dedicated to navigating the complexities of the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process. This session features Elizabeth Tuomey and Kaitlynn Fraze, PhD, from the Tuomey Law Firm.
This is a unique opportunity to meet with a legal expert and a dedicated special education advocate to get answers to your specific questions. Whether you are new to the IEP process or looking for guidance on systems-level advocacy and evidence-based educational opportunities, this Q&A is designed to provide you with practical support for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Lucky Mama Sip & Stroll
Kick off your St. Patrick’s Day with DSANV’s first Lucky Mama Sip & Stroll! Join DSANV Regional Engagement Coordinators for a beverage at Jirani Coffeehouse followed by a 21-minute walk through Old Town Manassas.
DSANV Dine-Out: Tropical Smoothie Cafe & WDSD Slideshow
Dine out with DSANV during WDSD Week! Bring your family and friends to Tropical Smoothie Cafe for a meal together — that benefits DSANV! Stop by the One Loudoun big screen afterwards to see our WDSD slideshow (featuring DSANV VIPs).
VDSA 12th Education & Transition Conference
Inclusion in Action: Empowering our community to shape tomorrow
Join the Virginia Down Syndrome Association for our 2026 Disability Education & Transition Conference. We hope to engage educators, families, and professionals across Virginia with the knowledge, strategies, and connections needed to support individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities in their educational journeys and beyond—fostering inclusive, lifelong pathways toward independence and belonging.
Our 12th Disability Education & Transition Conference will make a return visit to J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College - Parham Campus. This year we will be in the Massey Library Technology Center Building.
Info Session: Movement is Essential for all Children - Meet Jen Leonard and Lindsay Luhman from Playtime PT (Virtual)
Join us for an informative session where we will:
Introduce Playtime PT programs, including Biking, Yoga, and Purposeful Play for infants and toddlers.
Discuss how movement is essential for all children—not only for physical development but also for building confidence, connection, learning, and joy.
Focus on the importance of accessible, meaningful movement opportunities specifically for children with Down syndrome.
Highlight how inclusive, play-based approaches can support strength, coordination, participation, and overall development.
Briefly touch on parent advocacy in the context of physical development and therapy.
DSANV Coffee Meet-Up
Join DSANV at SimplyBe Coffee for an informal meet-up with fellow parents of children with Down syndrome. Grab a cup, sit back, and chat! Children are welcome! No registration required.
Porto Charities 2026 Conference
For years, we have partnered with Porto Charities to bring programming and opportunities for our VIPs. It is our pleasure to invite you to their 2026 conference. Inspired by the truth that all are formed in the image of God and called to share our unique gifts, Porto Charities and the Diocese of Arlington invite you to a day of fellowship and action.
Join parents, educators, catechists, clergy, and religious to explore concrete ways we can cultivate a beautiful life of belonging for individuals with disabilities within our schools and parishes.
Adapted Cooking Class at Anna Sudha Community Kitchens
Calling all DSANV Chefs! Join Anna Sudha Community Kitchens for this inclusive culinary experience. Practice your cooking skills while preparing a delicious meal of homemade pizza. This class is for teens/adults with Down syndrome (Ages 13+) and their caregiver(s).
Omnium Circus
Experience the magic of inclusion under the big top! Omnium Circus returns to Washington, DC with an all-new, star-studded production celebrating the power of community, diversity, and belonging.
TOPSoccer Clinic (Chantilly HS)
US Youth Soccer TOPSoccer (The Outreach Program for Soccer) is a recreational sports program for children and adults with intellectual, emotional, or physical disabilities. TOPSoccer provides people with diverse abilities an opportunity to play soccer in a structured environment that is safe, fun, supportive, and inclusive.
US Youth Soccer TOPSoccer has a free TOPS clinic on Sunday, March 1 inside the gym at Chantilly HS.
DSANV Coffee Meet-Up
Join DSANV at Vita Nova Creatives & Coffee for an informal meet-up with fellow parents of children with Down syndrome. Grab a cup, sit back, and chat! Children are welcome!
Career Development
DSANV is partnering with the St. Lucy Food Project Warehouse for our Career Development Program. All members ages 16+ are welcome!
DSANV Dine-Out: Pizza NY Margherita
Dine out with DSANV! Stop into Pizza NY Margherita in Gainesville for a quick bite alongside DSANV buddies, new & old.
DSANV Meet-Up: Open Swim Party
Join DSANV at Safe Splash Swim School for a FREE open swim session with DSANV buddies. Open to VIPs of all ages. Siblings welcome! No registration required.
NDSS Webinar: Transitioning from School to Adulthood - A Guide for Families & Caregivers
This FREE session, led By Jessica Kuss, NDSS Director of Community Programs, highlights key resources in health care, education, employment, and community life, while emphasizing the importance of early planning and self-advocacy. Participants will gain practical insights to help young adults build the skills, support, and confidence needed for a successful, self-directed transition.
DSANV Reading Program: Phonics the R-igh-t Way
Empowering Families. Building Lifelong Readers.
DSANV is proud to launch the DSANV Reading Program: Phonics the R-ight-t Way — a 9-month pilot literacy program designed to equip parents with the tools and confidence to teach reading to their loved one with Down syndrome (ages 3 and up).
This innovative program, already one of our most well-attended pilots, features the nationally recognized Raising Robust Readers curriculum and provides families with hands-on resources to build stronger literacy foundations at home.
Program Snapshot
Timeline: September 2025 – June 2026 (no session in December)
Format: 18 sessions (monthly in-person workshops at Burke Centre Library + monthly virtual sessions on Wednesday evenings)
Instructor: Certified teacher with expertise in literacy and Down syndrome education
Included Resources: Lifetime access to the Raising Robust Readers online program, Phonics the Right Way for Down Syndrome book, and FUN-O-Guide learning tool (the first 8 families received this $105 resource free, courtesy of DSANV)
LOCATION: Burke Centre Library 5935 Freds Oak Rd, Burke Centre, VA 22015
In-Person Session Dates (2025–2026)
September 17, 2025
October 15, 2025
November 19, 2025
(No December Session – Holiday Break)
January 21, 2026
February 18, 2026
March 18, 2026
April 15, 2026
May 20, 2026
June 17, 2026
Why It Matters
Families gain practical, research-based strategies to support literacy development at every stage
Parents connect with a community of peers learning side-by-side
This pilot reflects DSANV’s commitment to offering high-impact, evidence-based programming that empowers families
Registration Status
Registration for the DSANV Reading Program: Phonics the R-ight-t Way is now closed.
We are thrilled by the overwhelming response and will share updates and future opportunities with our community as this program unfolds.
D.A.D.S Meet-Up
Featuring good food/drinks, conversation, and fun. Come out for the evening and relax with friends- new and old! All dads and male caregivers of individuals with Down syndrome are welcome!
Info Session: Terri Lancaster and Gaby Osborne from Dash & Scout (Virtual)
Join us for an informative and interactive session with the experts from Dash and Scout! This session is designed for parents, caregivers and adults with Down syndrome exploring to learn more about independent living.
More info soon!
Info Session: Meet the DSANV Regional Engagement Coordinators (Virtual)
Kickoff 2026 with three of DSANV‘s newest team members -- Regional Engagement Coordinators (RECs) Erin Jones, Dana Laukhuf, and Emily Sachs. During this session, attendees will learn more about the recently-added REC positions and how they align with DSANV’s five-year strategic plan. The REC team will share details of the fun-filled DSANV events planned for early 2026. At session’s end, attendees will have the opportunity to share their suggestions for future DSANV events with the REC team. We hope to see you there!
NDSS Webinar: Building Lifestyle Wellness Strategies for Individuals with Down Syndrome
In this FREE webinar, Shelly Verma, DO, MSGPH, DipABLM, will review the five key pillars of Lifestyle Medicine, practical behavior change strategies for individuals with Down syndrome, and ways caregivers can support healthy habits with physical activity, nutrition, and emotional wellness. NDSS will also share resources to help individuals and families build the knowledge and skills needed for lifelong health.
Global Down Syndrome Fly-In
GLOBAL is working hard to ensure that our Down syndrome research program at NIH, the INCLUDE Project, is protected and can continue to grow during this period of NIH reform and DOGE management.
In addition, since the government shutdown and other health care challenges are of critical importance currently, they have set a more realistic goal of working to pass the DeOndra Dixon INCLUDE Project Act by the end of the 119th Congress – essentially by the end of 2026.
Our Executive Director and Board were invited to join Global once again for two transformative days on the hill, meeting our Members of Congress, participating in an important briefing with compelling testimonies, and an evening reception.
DETAILS: Learn More HERE
DSANV Coffee Meet-Up (Loudoun)
Join DSANV at SimplyBe Coffee for an informal meet-up with fellow parents of children with Down syndrome. Grab a cup, sit back, and chat! Children are welcome! No registration required.
Kendra Gives Back Event
Shine Bright, Do Good
JOIN US FOR A KENDRA GIVES BACK EVENT
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7TH | 4-6 PM
KENDRA SCOTT FAIRFAX MOSAIC DISTRICT
20% of all sales will go directly back to the Down Syndrome Association of Northern Virginia
CAN'T MAKE IT IN STORE? SHOP ONLINE & USE CODE GIVEBACK-LBGQM AT CHECKOUT OR PLACE A PHONE ORDER AT 571-253-7355.
*MUST MENTION THE DOWN SYNDROME ASSOCIATION OF
NOVA AT CHECKOUT
*GIVEBACK CODE VALID ALL DAY 2/7-2/8