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NextStop Theatre Company

‹‹ More Summer Camps

NextStop Theatre summer camps

The drama never stops at NextStop Theatre! Kids and teens are invited to join them behind the scenes and on the stage for a summer that will foster a lifelong love of the performing arts!

Campers will enjoy everything from acting, singing, and dancing to stage production and more — all led by highly experienced professional teaching artists. It’s a summer of theatre adventures!

Rising Grades 1-5

June 22-26, 2026
Theatre Fest Jr.
Participants enjoy a theatrical grab bag of the best elements that summer camps have to offer. Each day focuses on a different skill or experience, with guidance from experienced artists and experts, as students explore Acting, Technical Theatre, Improv & Comedy, Puppetry, and more. If a particular day sparks new passion, additional opportunities later in the summer allow students to continue the adventure.

June 29-July 10, 2026
Honk! Kids
Students join the cast of a brand-new kids’ adaptation of Honk! The Musical, based on the classic tale The Ugly Duckling. This special nine-day session does not meet on July 3 in observance of the Fourth of July holiday.

July 13-17, 2026
Mysteries & Mayhem
Students step into a world of secrets, suspense, and stagecraft as they become storytellers, detectives, and performers. Throughout this one-week theatre camp, participants explore what makes a mystery compelling — from clever clues and suspicious suspects to dramatic twists and theatrical mayhem. By week’s end, campers build confidence and teamwork skills as they prepare for an informal Friday afternoon showcase.

July 20-24, 2026
Anastasia: Youth Edition
Students rehearse and perform in a fully staged production of Anastasia: Youth Edition, inspired by one of history’s great mysteries. Participants receive focused instruction in acting, singing, dancing, and character development as they prepare for final performances on Friday afternoon and Saturday morning at the conclusion of the camp week.

July 27-31, 2026
Ready, Set, Act
Participants create characters, play theatre games, and bring original stories to life in this engaging acting camp designed for both first-time and experienced performers. The week concludes with a special Friday afternoon showing of what students have learned.

Aug 3-7, 2026
Musical Fun
Students explore the foundations of musical theatre through theatre games and instruction in acting, singing, and dancing led by seasoned performers. The session culminates in a Friday showcase featuring select songs and dances.

Rising Grades 5-10

June 22-26, 2026
Theatre Fest
Participants enjoy a theatrical grab-bag of the best elements of summer camps. Each day focuses on a different skill or experience, with students working with experienced artists and experts to explore Stage Combat, Improvisation, Shakespeare, Technical Theatre, Acting, and more. If a particular day sparks new interest, additional opportunities later in the summer allow students to continue the adventure.

June 29-July 2, 2026
Acting & Improv
Students explore the art and fun of acting without a script by improvising through games, thinking on their feet, and creating scenes without memorizing lines. The experience then shifts to scripted scene work and character development. This four-day combo camp offers several ways to strengthen acting skills, and no prior experience is necessary.

July 13-24, 2026
Anastasia: Youth Edition
Students participate in a fully staged production of Anastasia: Youth Edition, featuring a story rich in history and mystery. Whether seasoned performers or new to the stage, participants find a place in the cast. Throughout rehearsals, experienced teaching artists instruct students in acting, singing, dancing, and character development. Roles are auditioned and assigned during the first two days, and final performances take place on Friday afternoon and Saturday morning during the final week of camp.

July 27-31, 2026
Studies in Shakespeare
Participants receive an engaging, interactive introduction to Shakespearean drama. Over five engaging days, students explore famous characters, classic scenes, and timeless tales through acting, storytelling, and creative play. The week concludes with a brief Friday afternoon showcase highlighting what has been learned.

Aug 3-14, 2026
Shrek Jr.
Students collaborate to bring Shrek Jr. to life in a full-scale musical production. Aspiring actors, singers, and dancers work together to rehearse and perform, with opportunities for both experienced performers and those new to the stage. Participants receive instruction in acting, singing, dancing, and character development from expert teaching artists. Roles are auditioned and assigned during the first two days, and final performances take place on Friday afternoon and Saturday morning during the final week of camp.

Rising Grades 7-12

Production Crew
Each summer production includes a limited number of one-week backstage crew opportunities. Students help create scenery, lighting, props, and costumes for the final performance while also serving backstage as stage managers, stagehands, and board operators. No prior experience is required; a theatre tech expert guides participants through every step. Final performances take place Friday afternoon and Saturday morning at the end of each session.

Summer Teen Intensives
NextStop’s Summer Teen Intensives provide young artists with the opportunity to train, collaborate, and perform in a professional, ensemble-driven setting. Participants engage in immersive rehearsals, receive expert mentorship, and perform for live audiences.

Aug 14-23, 2026
The Guy Who Didn’t Like Musicals
In this horror-comedy, an alien hive mind invades a small town and forces everyone to burst into song. Paul, who hates musicals, must choose whether to join the chorus or fight to survive. Students may join the cast or crew of The Guy Who Didn’t Like Musicals: School Edition. An audition workshop is April 11, 2026, followed by auditions in May 2026. Rehearsals and tech work begin the week of June 22, 2026, with evenings, weekends, workshops, lab time, and professional guidance.

July 24-Aug 2, 2026
Begets: Fall of a High School Ronin
This action-packed samurai story follows Emi Edwards, a self-described geek girl determined to overthrow her high school’s ruling shoguns while confronting her own desire for popularity and power. Participants work with a professional production team on this straight play, which includes staged combat but no singing or dancing. An audition workshop is April 11, 2026, followed by May 2026 auditions, with rehearsals beginning June 20, 2026.

CONNECT

☎️ 703-481-5930, ext. 2
🌐 Website
🌐 Summer Camps
🔗 Facebook ∙ Twitter ∙ Instagram
📌 269 Sunset Park Dr, Herndon, VA
📌 Fairfax County

Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.

Why is My Sink Making Noises?

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<< More From John C. Flood


By John C. Flood of VA

There are a few everyday noises that plumbing fixtures in your home can produce: gurgling sounds, creaks, and groans. As homeowners, these are frustrating, and we’re triggered to assume that noises in our homes will lead to more significant problems.

If your home has been experiencing these noises, we have some diagnostic steps you can take, as well as steps to resolve the problem. Some fixes are DIY, while others require an expert. Either way, your plumbing and sink issues will be “out of earshot, out of mind.”

WHY DOES MY SINK MAKE A GURGLING SOUND?
If you hear a gurgling noise shortly after using the shower, sink, or toilet, you may have a blocked drain or vent pipe. Over time, various substances can accumulate in the drains and plumbing. And when air and water struggle to move past them, the gurgling noise happens.

What’s going on?
The buildup is causing the water to drain slowly, and air bubbles aren’t expelled correctly. This is what makes the sound. With a cleaned drain line, water and air bubbles can move through and be expelled correctly.

What can I do?
In-store solutions can clear clogged drains and are usually effective for minor clogs. It’s essential to follow all bottle instructions for both safety and effectiveness. If this method doesn’t work, you can try an auger. An auger is a flexible, long, coiled piece of metal that can reach far down a drain and break up debris.

Are there other potential problems?
The other possibility is a blocked vent pipe. Believe it or not, your home plumbing system vent pipe is typically on your roof. Issues with the vent pipe may be related to the internal setup or the vent area on the roof. If the above steps don’t resolve your gurgling issue, it’s time to call a Virginia plumbing professional.

WHY DOES MY SINK CREAK & GROAN?
Do you hear a loud, groaning clamor when water comes from the faucet? This is common in sinks that have two basins within one singular unit. Bonus — if these basins are made of stainless steel, you’ll hear more of a gong sound. Yikes.

What’s going on?
These basins sit next to each other, but a space on the underside of the sink separates them. It’s acting as an echo chamber.

What can I do?
If you insulate this space, that echo chamber will no longer be, and the noise will stop (it’s best to remove the basins before starting the project).

  • Purchase basic expanding foam from a hardware store.
  • Wear any necessary protective gear, such as gloves and face masks.
  • Fill in the space with the solution — but be careful not to add too much. It will expand, and you may find it challenging to refit those basins.
  • Put the sink back into the countertop and caulk the edges.
  • Refit any plumbing you disconnected.

It’s a good thing we’re primed to pay attention to sounds in our homes! Abnormal sounds from your plumbing could result in significant issues if left alone — and can impact your system’s efficiency and effectiveness.

If you’re hearing consistent creaks, groans, thuds, knocks, drips, or other things coming from your home’s plumbing, schedule a consultation with John C. Flood.


John C. Flood is a full-service home services company specializing in air conditioning, heating, plumbing, and electrical services throughout the DMV.

With a focus on upfront pricing, 24/7 emergency service, and a team of licensed professionals, John C. Flood is a leader in the industry, dedicated to making home comfort and maintenance seamless and stress-free!

Connect with them today with a call (703-752-1251) or click: Website • Facebook • Instagram • Twitter.

FACE Family Academy

Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) FACE Family Academy empowers parents with the knowledge and tools to actively engage in their child’s education.

Through a series of online workshops, families can learn more about the school division, strengthen connections with their schools, and develop the skills to advocate effectively for their child’s success. Each session highlights one of three themes:

  • Advocate: Partnering for Your Child’s Success
  • Empower: Tools to Support Student Success
  • Connect: Navigating School & Division Communication

The program offers seven sessions throughout the school year, from October to May, with each workshop running about 30 minutes. Register for your preferred session online — and if you can’t join live, every session is posted on the Family Academy website afterward for on-demand viewing.

The schedule includes:

Dec 8, 2026
Math & Writing Resources
Learn practical ways to support your child’s reading, writing, spelling, and math development at home. Families will explore everyday routines that build literacy skills, strategies for encouraging reluctant or struggling readers, and resources that reinforce math concepts and problem-solving. The session also unpacks current approaches to math instruction — and why students may solve problems differently than their families learned to. Register online.

Feb 2, 2027
Family Voice & Empowerment
Learn how families can make their voices heard and play an active role in LCPS. This session explores advisory groups, family engagement opportunities, and school-based involvement, and explains how the division gathers and uses family feedback. It also introduces the Loudoun Education Alliance of Families (LEAF) as a resource for partnership and advocacy. Register online.

Mar 2, 2027
College, Career, & Skilled Trades Opportunities
Explore the many pathways available to students after high school. This session highlights Northern Virginia Community College (NVCC) courses, degree and certificate programs, dual enrollment, and transfer pathways, plus career and technical education (CTE), apprenticeships, skilled trades, workforce training, and industry certifications. Families will also gain ways to help students explore their interests, strengths, and goals as they consider NOVA programs and other postsecondary options. Register online.

Apr 6, 2027
Digital Citizenship
Technology is woven into students’ learning and daily lives, and this session gives families practical strategies for navigating it safely. Topics include encouraging responsible online behavior, protecting privacy, recognizing potential risks, and establishing healthy device routines that promote balance and well-being. Families will also learn how to partner with schools around social media, digital communication, and educational technology. Register online.

May 11, 2027
Summer Opportunities
Discover summer learning and enrichment opportunities available to students throughout Loudoun County. LCPS staff and community partners will share programs, library reading initiatives, and internship, volunteer, and career exploration opportunities for middle and high school students. Families will leave with ideas for creating meaningful summer experiences that support learning, skill development, and personal interests. Register online.

THESE EVENTS HAVE PASSED

Nov 3, 2026
Getting Involved with Your School & LCPS
Discover ways families can connect with their child’s school and LCPS to support student success. School principals will share insights and opportunities for meaningful engagement at the elementary and secondary levels, from volunteering and school events to key division resources and communication channels. Families will leave with ideas for building strong partnerships with teachers, counselors, administrators, and other school staff. Register online.

Oct 6, 2026
Brain Science & Study Skills
Discover how students learn best by exploring the science behind learning, memory, and motivation. This session offers practical strategies families can use to encourage strong study habits and strengthen executive functioning skills, including organization, planning, time management, and self-monitoring. Families will leave with tools to help students become more confident, independent learners. Register online.

Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.

Kids Eat Free & Cheap

Some days mom just needs a break from the kitchen or just a family night out! Pick your day, including weekends, and check out all the local yummy places that offer meals for your kiddo free or cheap!

Keywords: b1g1, bogo, buy one get one, cheap, cost, coupon, diner, dinner, eat, food, free food for kids, free food, free kid’s meal, free kids meal, free, kid eat free, kids eat free, low, low-cost, lunch, meal, restaurant

STEM Classes, Camps, & Workshops

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Every child is an inventor, scientist, mathematician, or engineer in the making. These STEM destinations offer plenty of opportunities to explore science, technology, engineering, and math!

ARLINGTON CO
FAIRFAX CO
LOUDOUN CO

Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.

Updated July 23, 2026

Does My Child Have Asthma?

By Fairfax Neonatal Associates

Asthma is one of the most common chronic conditions in childhood, occurring in approximately 9% of all children. While it is very common, the presentation of asthma can be very different among children, and it is often misdiagnosed. The underlying problem with asthma is inflammation, or swelling, in the airways, which makes them easily irritated when exposed to triggers. These triggers can include viral infections, allergens, cold air, exercise, environmental irritants, and secondhand smoke.

The most common symptoms seen are frequent or persistent cough, difficulty breathing, and/or wheezing. Wheezing is a high-pitched squeaky noise most often heard while the child is breathing out. In addition, children with asthma will cough for longer periods of time when they have a respiratory tract infection and sometimes will tire easily while playing or have a frequent cough with exercise.

A common parental observation is “colds go straight to his/her chest.” Kids who have asthma miss more than three times the amount of school than kids without asthma. These symptoms, however, can be significantly improved if not eliminated with appropriate therapy.

Most children with asthma get better as they get older. In fact, a majority of children will have a wheezing episode in the first few years of life, but only a percentage of those kids will go on to have long-standing asthma. The common risk factors which lead to a higher chance of persistent asthma are a direct family history of asthma or a pattern of allergy in the child.

There is no single test to diagnose asthma, and an accurate diagnosis depends on a combination of history, physical exam, and, if able, lung function measurements. Most children over the age of 4 can do some form of pulmonary function testing that can make the diagnosis clearer. Typically, children with asthma have an improvement in symptoms with the use of inhaled medications that relax the airways (albuterol). However, in children who have more frequent or more intense asthmatic episodes, preventive inhaled medications are very safe and very effective in controlling the symptoms.

If you have concerns about asthma in your child, discuss the symptoms with your health care provider, as asthma should not be a barrier for your child to do anything they want to do!

Discover Dominion Christian School

This opportunity is over; visit our calendar for up-to-date fun!

Dominion Christian School offers a classical, college-preparatory education that has served Northern Virginia families for nearly 30 years.

Founded in 1996, Dominion offers a K-12 learning experience that encourages students to think critically, live with integrity, and strive for excellence in all aspects of life. With small class sizes and caring teachers, students are guided to develop strong character, confidence, and curiosity that extend well beyond the classroom.

You’re invited! Get to know what makes Dominion Christian School unique and all they have to offer families like yours at one of their upcoming Open House events:

GRADES K-6
To register, click here.

  • May 5, 2026
    Herndon, VA
  • May 6, 2026
    Oakton, VA

GRADES 7-12
To register, click here.

  • May 4, 2026
    Herndon, VA

Dominion’s classical approach follows a time-tested educational model that has shaped great thinkers for generations. Through a broad liberal arts curriculum encompassing literature, language, history, mathematics, science, and the arts, students develop the skills to analyze, reason, and communicate effectively. They are encouraged to participate in the “Great Conversation,” exploring timeless ideas that have shaped culture and civilization.

A Dominion education values both intellectual rigor and personal growth, helping students connect disciplines and discover how knowledge works together. Inspired by the achievements of history’s innovators — from Edison and Franklin to Einstein — Dominion students develop the critical thinking and leadership skills needed to make a meaningful impact in the world.

Dominion Christian School proudly operates as one school with two campuses serving the Northern Virginia region:

  • Grades K-6
    South Campus ∙ 10922 Vale Rd, Oakton, VA
  • Grades K-12
    North Campus ∙ 1545 Dranesville Rd, Herndon, VA

LEARN MORE

Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.

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Updated Nov 2, 2026