Events
Zumba Master Class with Loreta Bates and Sandra Ortecho
Join the Down Syndrome Association of Northern Virginia (DSANV) and Zin Sandra Ortecho for an unforgettable Master Class featuring international Zumba sensation, Loretta Bates!
This high-energy class is a special, FREE event for people with Down Syndrome. Get ready to dance, sweat, and smile with electrifying music and dynamic choreography. All levels are welcome—come as you are and leave inspired, empowered, and energized.
DSANV Reading Program: Phonics the R-igh-t Way (Date Change)
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.
New Parent Breakfast
If you are an expectant parent or have been parenting your child with Down syndrome for 4 years or less, this breakfast is for you! Join us for homemade pancakes, breakfast casseroles, and fresh fruit. Meet other new families, as well as other DSANV members who may be able to answer some of your questions.
DSANV@ Diverse Abilities Fair for All
DSANV will be participating at the Diverse Abilities Resource Fair for All
The goal of this event is to bring together nonprofits, service providers, and businesses that offer resources and support for individuals with disabilities and their families.
DSANV will be hosting a table as part of this resource fair. Stop by to learn about resources in the Haymarket area. Don’t forget to stop and say hello to DSANV staff and volunteers!
Cost: Free
Disclaimer:
Please note that this event is not hosted or sponsored by the Down Syndrome Association of Northern Virginia (DSANV), nor is it affiliated with any official DSANV partner organization. All event details, registration, fees, and associated costs are managed solely by the hosting organization. DSANV shares this information as a community resource and is not responsible for event content, logistics, or outcomes.
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
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.
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
Info Session: Meet the DSANV Regional Engagement Coordinators (RECs)
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!
Family Learning Lab (PreK-Elem.){Virtual}
Join us the second Saturday of each month (Sept–June) for the DSANV Family Learning Lab! Parents of children ages 3–12 gain tools, confidence, and community advocacy. Sessions do not build on one another. You may choose the topics that are most appropriate for your family.
Info Session: Terry 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!
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 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 Meet-Up: Open Swim Party
Join DSANV at Safe Splash Swim School for an FREE open swim session with DSANV buddies. VIP can be accompanied by 1 family member. Lifeguards and swim instructors will be on-site. All ages welcome! No registration required.
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.
Career Development
DSANV is partnering with the St. Lucy Food Project Warehouse for our Career Development Program. All members ages 16+ are welcome!
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.
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.
Info Session: Meet Jen Leonard and Lindsay Luhman from Playtime PT (Virtual)
Join us for an informative and interactive session with the experts from Playtime PT! This session is designed for parents and caregivers looking to support their child’s physical development through purposeful play and professional guidance.
During this hour, the team from Playtime PT will discuss:
Milestone Success: Key physical development milestones and how to encourage them at home.
Therapeutic Play: Simple, everyday activities that double as physical therapy exercises.
Q&A Session: A dedicated time for you to ask specific questions regarding your child's mobility and physical growth.
Whether your child is just beginning to crawl or is working on more complex gross motor skills, this session will provide practical tools to help them move and thrive. We look forward to seeing you there!
Family Learning Lab (PreK-Elem.){Virtual}
Join us the second Saturday of each month (Sept–June) for the DSANV Family Learning Lab! Parents of children ages 3–12 gain tools, confidence, and community advocacy. Sessions do not build on one another. You may choose the topics that are most appropriate for your family.
DSANV Dine-Out: Tropical Smoothie Cafe
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).
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.
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: 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!
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!
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!
Career Development
DSANV is partnering with the St. Lucy Food Project Warehouse for our Career Development Program. All members ages 16+ are welcome!
Family Learning Lab (PreK-Elem.){Virtual}
Join us the second Saturday of each month (Sept–June) for the DSANV Family Learning Lab! Parents of children ages 3–12 gain tools, confidence, and community advocacy. Sessions do not build on one another. You may choose the topics that are most appropriate for your family.
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 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.
Career Development
DSANV is partnering with the St. Lucy Food Project Warehouse for our Career Development Program. All members ages 16+ are welcome!
Family Learning Lab (PreK-Elem.) - Virtual
Join us the second Saturday of each month (Sept–June) for the DSANV Family Learning Lab! Parents of children ages 3–12 gain tools, confidence, and community while kids enjoy free on-site childcare. Each 8:30–10:30 a.m. session covers a new topic—from behavior and literacy to independence and advocacy. Sessions do not build on one another. You may choose the topics that are most appropriate for your family.
September 13 — Behavior
October 11 — Curriculum & Pacing Guides
November 8 — Social Skills, Self-Regulation & Sensory
December 13 (Virtual) — Executive Functioning & School Readiness
January 10 — Literacy
February 14 — Communication & Extended School Year
March 14 — Specialists (PT, OT, Speech, ABA) & Resources
April 11 — Self-Advocacy, Independence & Transition
May 9 — Numeracy
June 13 — Toileting & Sleep
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 (Loudoun)
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.
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 (Loudoun)
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.
Family Learning Lab (PreK-Elem.) - Virtual
Join us the second Saturday of each month (Sept–June) for the DSANV Family Learning Lab! Parents of children ages 3–12 gain tools, confidence, and community while kids enjoy free on-site childcare. Each 8:30–10:30 a.m. session covers a new topic—from behavior and literacy to independence and advocacy. Sessions do not build on one another. You may choose the topics that are most appropriate for your family.
September 13 — Behavior
October 11 — Curriculum & Pacing Guides
November 8 — Social Skills, Self-Regulation & Sensory
December 13 (Virtual) — Executive Functioning & School Readiness
January 10 — Literacy
February 14 — Communication & Extended School Year
March 14 — Specialists (PT, OT, Speech, ABA) & Resources
April 11 — Self-Advocacy, Independence & Transition
May 9 — Numeracy
June 13 — Toileting & Sleep
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 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.
DSANV Coffee Meet-Up (Loudoun)
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 (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.
DSANV Coffee Meet-Up (Loudoun)
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 Dine-Out: Foster's Grille
Dine out with DSANV! Stop into Foster's Grille in Downtown Manassas for a quick bite alongside DSANV buddies, new and old.
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 Meet- Up: Coffee Chat (Loudoun)
Join DSANV at Ridgetop Coffee and 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.
Family Learning Lab (PreK-Elem.){Virtual}
Join us the second Saturday of each month (Sept–June) for the DSANV Family Learning Lab! Parents of children ages 3–12 gain tools, confidence, and community advocacy. Sessions do not build on one another. You may choose the topics that are most appropriate for your family.
DSANV Meet- Up: Coffee Chat
Join DSANV at Jirani Coffeehouse 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.
Family Learning Lab (PreK-Elem.){Virtual}
Join us the second Saturday of each month (Sept–June) for the DSANV Family Learning Lab! Parents of children ages 3–12 gain tools, confidence, and community advocacy. Sessions do not build on one another. You may choose the topics that are most appropriate for your family.
DSANV Dine-Out: Westover Taco
Dine out with DSANV! Stop into Westover Taco in Arlington for a quick bite alongside DSANV buddies, new and old.
SuperSibs! {Virtual}
SuperSibs is a virtual weekly program, ending Dec. 2, for siblings ages 8-18 years and is facilitated by actor/director/sibling Brian Donovan. We are grateful to our partners at the Down Syndrome Association of Central Florida.
Cost: FREE
Registration is closed.
The Purple Tutu Nutcracker Performance + VIP Dancer Meet + Greet
Join us for a magical evening celebrating inclusion, artistry, and holiday cheer! Members of the Down Syndrome Association of Northern Virginia (DSANV) are invited to attend The Purple Tutu Holiday Performance — a beloved community tradition produced by ArtSpireVa.
Enjoy reserved group seating and exclusive VIP access to meet the inspiring Purple Tutu dancers before the show. The VIP dancer meet + greet and backstage tour begins at 6:10 PM, followed by the performance at 6:30 PM.
DSANV Holiday Celebration with Santa Photos!
Join us for a joyful, family-friendly holiday celebration! Enjoy photos with Santa, cookie decorating, holiday crafts and …
The Improvaneer Method {Virtual}
DSANV partners with the Down Syndrome Association of Maryland for a 10-Week Improvaneer Method class. Whether you're a seasoned performer or trying improv for the very first time, this high-energy, inclusive workshop is perfect for YOU!
DSANV Meet- Up: Coffee Chat
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! Searching for last-minute holiday gifts? Browse the handmade goods in Vita Nova's shop afterwards! Children are welcome!
SuperSibs! {Virtual}
SuperSibs is a virtual weekly program, ending Dec. 2, for siblings ages 8-18 years and is facilitated by actor/director/sibling Brian Donovan. We are grateful to our partners at the Down Syndrome Association of Central Florida.
Cost: FREE
Registration is closed.
Career Development Project 7
DSANV is partnering with St. Lucy’s Pantry for project 4 of our Career Development Program. This is the first Career Development offering outside of Fairfax County. All members ages 16+ are welcome!
The Improvaneer Method {Virtual}
DSANV partners with the Down Syndrome Association of Maryland for a 10-Week Improvaneer Method class. Whether you're a seasoned performer or trying improv for the very first time, this high-energy, inclusive workshop is perfect for YOU!
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.
Online Support Group: Parents of Children with Complex Behaviors {Virtual}
Parenting a child with complex behaviors can be overwhelming, isolating — and at times, exhausting. But you don’t have to walk this journey alone. Join our free, judgment-free virtual support group, created just for parents and caregivers like you.
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!
SuperSibs! {Virtual}
SuperSibs is a virtual weekly program, ending Dec. 2, for siblings ages 8-18 years and is facilitated by actor/director/sibling Brian Donovan. We are grateful to our partners at the Down Syndrome Association of Central Florida.
Cost: FREE
Registration is closed.
The Improvaneer Method {Virtual}
DSANV partners with the Down Syndrome Association of Maryland for a 10-Week Improvaneer Method class. Whether you're a seasoned performer or trying improv for the very first time, this high-energy, inclusive workshop is perfect for YOU!
Info Session: Dr. Karen Kelminson on Sleep Disorders in Children with Down syndrome
Join Sie Center Medical Director (Denver, CO) Karen Kelminson, MD as she discusses common sleep issues for children and adolescents with Down syndrome.
Champion Football Great Falls
Champion Football is back for its’ 18th season with YMSL Great Falls! The league is open to all individuals (male or female) over the age of 5 with a physical or intellectual disability. This will be a non-contact, modified flag football league. No prior football experience is necessary.
DSANV@ Circle of Support Conference
DSANV will be participating at the Circle of Support Conference
Join The ARC of Greatwe Prince William on Saturday November 8, 2025 for our annual Circle of Support Conference for families of children with special needs and professionals who support them.
KEYNOTE ADDRESS:
“The 4 A’s of Autism: Awareness, Acceptance, Appreciation, and Action as a Pathway to Fulfilling and Productive Lives”
– By Dr. Stephen Shore, Adelphi University
Additional Breakout Sessions and resources are always available.
DSANV will be hosting a table as part of this conference. Stop by to learn about disability employment. Don’t forget to stop and say hello to DSANV staff and volunteers!
Disclaimer:
Please note that this event is not hosted or sponsored by the Down Syndrome Association of Northern Virginia (DSANV), nor is it affiliated with any official DSANV partner organization. All event details, registration, fees, and associated costs are managed solely by the hosting organization. DSANV shares this information as a community resource and is not responsible for event content, logistics, or outcomes.
Family Learning Lab (PreK-Elem.)
Join us the second Saturday of each month (Sept–June) for the DSANV Family Learning Lab! Parents of children ages 3–12 gain tools, confidence, and community while kids enjoy free on-site childcare. Each 8:30–10:30 a.m. session covers a new topic—from behavior and literacy to independence and advocacy. Sessions do not build on one another. You may choose the topics that are most appropriate for your family.
September 13 — Behavior
October 11 — Curriculum & Pacing Guides
November 8 — Social Skills, Self-Regulation & Sensory
December 13 (Virtual) — Executive Functioning & School Readiness
January 10 — Literacy
February 14 — Communication & Extended School Year
March 14 — Specialists (PT, OT, Speech, ABA) & Resources
April 11 — Self-Advocacy, Independence & Transition
May 9 — Numeracy
June 13 — Toileting & Sleep
Info Session: A Deep Dive into IEP Progress Reports
Join Liz Capone, an Advocate, Expert Witness and a former Special Education Teacher of 21 years, for this virtual informational session, where she will discuss common terminology seen in IEP progress reports, quantitative vs. qualitative data, grade level vs. instructional level data and more.
The Improvaneer Method {Virtual}
DSANV partners with the Down Syndrome Association of Maryland for a 10-Week Improvaneer Method class. Whether you're a seasoned performer or trying improv for the very first time, this high-energy, inclusive workshop is perfect for YOU!
DSANV@ Moving on to Life in the Community: A Resource Fair
The Moving on to Life in the Community exhibitor fair will introduce and connect families and students with IEPs to adult service providers and community supports (ex. DARS, CSB, SSI/SSDI, supported employment assistance, residential services, Medicaid, etc.) upon exiting the school system.