Home Blog Page 81

Newsletter ∙ July 30, 2026

0

July 30, 2026
Calendar ∙ Camp Guide

Save-the-Date: Totally Trucks
Meet the vehicles that keep the community running…
Big rigs and big fun at Totally Trucks! Kids get a front-row look at the police, fire, and service vehicles that keep our community working and safe. Best of all, this August 7, 2026, event is free… MORE

The Fairfax County Carnival & Fair Is in Full Swing!
Farm adventures meet fairground thrills…
Make way for midway fun at the Fairfax County Carnival & Fair! Now through August 2, 2026, Frying Pan Farm Park is packed with exciting rides and games, exhibits, and plenty of farm animals to visit… MORE

Extra! Extra! News from DullesMoms Supporters

DullesMoms’ supporters want to share some Extra! Extra! News with you:

Make a Splash Before Summer Ends
Water safety is always in season…
Lessons are not only fun but lifesaving! A study available through the NIH found that formal swim lessons were associated with an almost 90% reduction in drowning risk among young children. With water safety a top priority, Goldfish Swim School offers week-long summer Jump Start Clinics. Don’t let summer fade without making a wave — learn more at your preferred location (Reston, Alexandria, Falls Church)… MORE

Step Into the World of Curious George!
Get ready for a little monkey business…
The National Children’s Museum sparks curiosity and creativity in the littlest learners — and right now, the Visiting Exhibit Hall has transformed into an immersive, STEM-powered adventure. Explore the beloved neighborhood of the playful primate who has captured hearts and imaginations for 85 years at Curious George: Let’s Get Curious, a limited-time exhibit… MORE

Starlight Cinema Lights Up the Night
Find big-screen fun outdoors…
Beginning August 1, 2026, Starlight Cinema is back for a month of movies under the stars! Their Disney-packed lineup includes Tangled, Zootopia 2, Finding Nemo, and Disney Pixar’s Cars. Making summer even more accessible, these Arts in the Park movie nights are free to attend… MORE

Big Top Fun Comes to Tysons!
Get ready for edge-of-your-seat thrills…
Circus Vazquez takes center ring August 7-30, 2026! America’s family-owned circus, with more than 50 years of tradition behind it, brings its all-new tour to Tysons with an international cast of acrobats, aerialists, and clowns… MORE

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

Goldfish Swim School Engages All the Senses

By Goldfish Swim School, July 2024

Did you know lessons at Goldfish Swim School start for little ones as young as four months old? As their little brains soak up the world around them, it’s the perfect time to get them started on their swimming journey!

Even better? Water play, especially in Goldfish’s shiver-free heated pools, provides fantastic sensory learning opportunities. Below are ten reasons why:

  1. Great for Motor Skills
    When babies splash around in the water, they move their arms and legs a lot, which helps them develop strong muscles and better motor skills.
    Source: Pediatric Occupational Therapy Guidelines
  2. Boosts Brain Power
    Water play is fantastic for a baby’s brain! It helps them learn and think more effectively, kick-starting their cognitive growth early on.
    Source: Journal of Early Childhood Research
  3. Fun Sensory Exploration
    Water feels different than anything else, and it lets babies explore new textures, temperatures, and movements.
    Source: Sensory Integration and the Child by A. Jean Ayres
  4. Helps with Talking
    When babies babble and giggle in the water, it actually helps them develop language skills. Singing and chatting during water play make it even better.
    Source: Early Childhood Language Development Research
  5. Builds Confidence
    As babies get used to being in the water, they gain confidence and independence, which can benefit other areas of their lives, too.
    Source: Developmental Psychology Journals
  6. Improves Coordination
    Reaching for toys or floating on mats in the water helps babies improve their coordination and balance.
    Source: Pediatric Physical Therapy Studies
  7. Super Soothing
    Warm water and gentle movements can calm babies, reduce their stress, and help them relax.
    Source: Infant Mental Health Journal
  8. Encourages Social Skills
    Water play often involves interacting with parents, caregivers, or other kids, which helps babies develop social skills and bond with others.
    Source: Child Development Research Articles
  9. Promotes Physical Activity
    Getting into water activities early on encourages a love of exercise, setting the stage for a healthy, active lifestyle.
    Source: American Academy of Pediatrics
  10. Engages the Senses
    Water play is a full-sensory experience that stimulates touch, sight, and sound, supporting overall sensory development.
    Source: Sensory Processing Disorder Foundation

New to Goldfish Swim School?
See them in person. Schedule a tour or sign up for a free trial lesson at your preferred location, including:

  • Alexandria, VA
    3155-B Duke St, Alexandria, VA 22314
    703-348-3261
  • Falls Church, VA
    7395 Route 29, Ste K, Falls Church, VA 22042
    703-348-3261
  • Reston, VA
    12340 Pinecrest Rd, Reston, VA 20191
    703-348-3261

Newsletter ∙ July 23, 2026

0

July 23, 2026
Calendar ∙ Camp Guide

Come One, Come All to the Loudoun County Fair!
Family fun meets big-time thrills…
This year’s Loudoun County Fair is packed with can’t-miss fun! More than carnival rides, the schedule gives every age group a reason to visit daily! Families will find live music and entertainment, gaming opportunities, and special events like extreme bull riding and a crash-tastic demolition derby! Hosted at the Fairgrounds, the excitement happens daily until July 25, 2026… MORE

Free Summer Fun Hits the Stage!
Big talent is taking over local parks…
We’re so lucky to live in an area that offers outstanding opportunities to enjoy the performing arts at local parks and more!

Even better? All Arts in the Park events are free to attend! Check out upcoming shows:

DullesMoms’ supporters want to share some Extra! Extra! News with you:

After School Fun Takes Center Stage at Lopez Studios
Applause-worthy after-school fun…
Lopez Studios Performing Arts Preparatory School offers kids a one-of-a-kind after-school experience! More than transportation and homework help, this popular performing arts program gives students the opportunity to discover their talents, build confidence, and boost self-esteem alongside like-minded friends. It’s never too early to register… MORE

Community Art Showcase
Show some love for local art…
The Painted Tiger Art Studio’s Community Art Showcase is coming to Leesburg on July 25, 2026! Alongside inspiring local art and opportunities to meet the creators, the evening will feature live music, wine tasting, and merchandise for purchase in support of the studio’s community efforts… MORE

Loudoun Station’s Summerbration
Lights, laughter, and lots of fun…
Find Loudoun Station’s free outdoor movie series on Sundays this summer at District Park:

SuperCon Fest
DMV’s first-ever outdoor fandom festival…
Superfans, assemble — an epic weekend is calling! SuperCon Fest 2026 is bringing the DMV’s first-ever outdoor fandom festival to Bull Run Park Special Events Center on July 25-26, 2026… MORE

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

Newsletter ∙ July 16, 2026

0

July 16, 2026
Calendar ∙ Camp Guide

Headlines Worth Another Look
Too good to miss…
It’s a headline rewind! Check out these can’t-miss topics you might have missed:

Sunshine & Sparkles Princess Party
Step into a summer celebration filled with magic and royal fun… MORE

The Big Dig (& Touch-a-Truck)
From adults to the littlest tater tot, there’s plenty of fun to be found at the Big Dig… MORE

Fairfax County Carnival & Fair
Come one, come all! The 4-H Fair & Carnival offers four days of summer entertainment… MORE

Live! The Great Zucchini
Get ready for a laugh-out-loud weekend performance by beloved performer The Great Zucchini… MORE

A Circus with a Splash: Cirque Italia
Big-top thrills are making a splash at Cirque Italia’s Water Circus… MORE

Live! The Laurie Berkner Band
Widely recognized as “The Queen of Kids’ Music,” Laurie Berkner is coming to a NOVA stage… MORE

Purcellville Wine & Food Fest
A delicious event that’s always worth a toast! Enjoy wineries, breweries, food vendors, and more… MORE

SuperCon Fest
SuperCon Fest is bringing the DMV’s first-ever outdoor fandom festival… MORE

Step Into Summer Fun at the LoCo Fairgrounds
Big thrills are rolling into Loudoun…
Summer’s biggest tradition returns this week! From July 21-25, 2026, get ready for five days of Loudoun County Fair fun.

Packed with everything from carnival rides and live entertainment to special events like extreme bull riding and a demolition derby — there’s something for all ages! Get the full schedule and your advance admission online… MORE

Extra! Extra! News from DullesMoms Supporters

DullesMoms’ supporters want to share some Extra! Extra! News with you:

50 Years of Community Fun
Celebrate five decades of fun…
Herndon Community Center is celebrating its Golden Anniversary! In honor of 50 years, enjoy free admission on Friday, July 17, 2026! Plus, the first 50 visitors will receive a commemorative swag bag, too! Get to know the HCC and all they have to offer… MORE

The Kids Who Aren’t Asking for Help Often Need It Most
Not all signs of stress are obvious…
The conversation around teen mental health continues to grow, especially for overachieving adolescents who rarely show obvious signs of struggle. From self-criticism to physical stress symptoms and emotional exhaustion, these patterns can quietly take hold. Mahogany Counseling creates a safe, culturally sensitive space where kids and teens can step away from perfection and begin to process what they’re truly feeling. Learn more about their services and schedule an appointment today… MORE

The Best Week They’ll Spend in the Pool
Keep kids learning between splash days…
Summer’s no time to quit swim lessons! They not only reinforce skills and confidence, but also make water safety a top priority! From lessons to week-long Jump Start clinics, Goldfish Swim School offers learning opportunities in their shiver-free pools with certified instructors. Don’t let the summer fade without making a wave — find your preferred location (Reston, Alexandria, Falls Church) and learn more today… MORE

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

Newsletter ∙ July 10, 2026

0

July 10, 2026
Calendar ∙ Camp Guide

Sunflower Picking & Special Events
Stop and smell the flowers…
Explore hundreds of acres of sunflowers, pick your favorite blooms, and enjoy family-friendly festivals celebrating summer… MORE

Kidz Bop Live
Chart-topping family fun…
Get ready for Kidz Bop Live — where the pop charts meet the playground! They’re bringing the ultimate kid-friendly pop concert to Wolf Trap on July 31, 2026… MORE

DullesMoms’ supporters want to share some Extra! Extra! News with you:

Make a Splash Before Summer Ends
Water safety is always in season…
Lessons are not only fun, but life-saving! Did you know a study published by the NIH found swim lessons reduce the risk of young kids drowning by almost 90%? With water safety a top priority, Goldfish Swim School offers summer week-long Jump Start clinics. Don’t let the summer fade without making a wave — learn more at your preferred location (Reston, Alexandria, Falls Church)… MORE

Packed Schedules Can Mask What Kids Are Really Going Through
Not every struggle is easy to spot…
Parents are learning that anxiety doesn’t always look like falling behind. High-achieving kids and teens often carry a quiet weight — pushing for a flawless image while struggling internally. Mahogany Counseling brings over two decades of experience helping families uncover easy-to-miss signs and find meaningful support for children who seem fine on the outside but feel overwhelmed on the inside. Learn more about their services and schedule an appointment today… MORE

The Farmer’s Market Brings the Beat to Herndon
Come for the market, stay for the show…
Grab your calendar and plan ahead for a toe-tappin’ good time when downtown Herndon comes alive with music, laughs, new friends, and more! Farmer’s Market Fun Days lineup includes Shake It Up Jam, Mr. Jon & Friends, and more, all summer long… MORE

Save-the-Date for the Loudoun County Fair
Big rides and bigger memories…
From July 21-25, 2026, the Loudoun County Fair is back with everything families love about summer! Find carnival rides, live entertainment, farm animals, favorite fair foods, and exciting events like extreme bull riding and the demolition derby — all in one place. Get the full schedule and purchase advance admission online… MORE

See What’s Waiting at YMCA Summer Camps
Every camper can find their perfect fit…
Whether they love science experiments, sports, creative projects, or outdoor adventures, kids will find plenty to explore at YMCA Summer Camps. Offered weekly throughout the summer at three Loudoun County locations, these camps are more than fun — they provide safe, welcoming environments where campers learn new skills, make new friends, and create lasting memories… MORE

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

Newsletter ∙ July 2, 2026

0

July 2, 2026
Calendar ∙ Camp Guide

Fireworks & 4th of July Celebrations
The big guide…
There are so many ways to celebrate! From fireworks and parades to fests and parties… MORE

Booms, Bands & Big-Screen Fun at Reston Station
Family fun & fireworks await…
From July 2-4, 2026, you’re invited to Reston Station for three days of free festivities! July 2 features family-friendly activities, live entertainment with a DJ, a performance by Bruce in the USA, and a spectacular fireworks display. The celebration continues on July 3 with live music on the plaza, then wraps up on July 4 with more live music followed by a movie under the stars… MORE

Extra! Extra! News from DullesMoms Supporters

DullesMoms’ supporters want to share some Extra! Extra! News with you:

Big Talent & Big Fun Beyond the Bell
Afterschool program now enrolling…
Lopez Studios Performing Arts Preparatory School invites K-6 students to discover their voice, gain confidence, and build self-esteem in a one-of-a-kind afterschool program. With acting, music, homework help, and character-building, it’s more than aftercare — it’s a place to make friends, discover new talents, and grow in confidence, all in one convenient program… MORE

Kids Bowl Free @ 810 Entertainment
Roll into summer fun…
Weekdays, all summer long, kids and teens can bowl for free at 810 Entertainment — a massive 60,000-square-foot entertainment venue with something for every age… MORE

See What’s Waiting at YMCA Summer Camps
Every camper can find their perfect fit…
Whether they love science experiments, sports, creative projects, or outdoor adventures, kids will find plenty to explore at YMCA Summer Camps. Offered weekly throughout the summer at three Loudoun County locations, these camps are more than fun — they provide safe, welcoming environments where campers learn new skills, make new friends, and create lasting memories… MORE

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

Newsletter ∙ June 25, 2026

0

June 25, 2026
Calendar ∙ Camp Guide

Now Open: Slick City Action Park
Slide from one adventure to the next…
The race to fun just got faster in the DMV — Slick City Action Park, the world’s first indoor slide park, is now open! Located in Prince William County, this location spans 70,000 square feet — making it Slick City’s largest in the country. This exciting indoor destination features 15+ slides, plus go-karts, putt-putt, air courts, and more… MORE

Before the 4th, the Fun Starts Early!
Weekend fireworks are here…
Why wait until July? These fireworks displays and celebrations bring big sparkle and excitement ahead of schedule:

Extra! Extra! News from DullesMoms.com supporters

DullesMoms’ supporters want to share some Extra! Extra! News with you:

A Star-Spangled Show Like Never Before
A high-tech twist on tradition…
For the first time ever, Fairfax County Park Authority is swapping fireworks for a spectacular drone light show! Part of the America 250 Celebration, you’re invited to Lake Fairfax Park on June 27, 2026, for a day (& night!) filled with fun! Enjoy live music, food trucks, and everything the park has to offer, and at sunset, watch the night sky come alive with hundreds of synchronized drones! Get the details about this exciting special event… MORE

From Backstage to Center Stage at Lopez Studios
Inspire a love for the arts this summer…
Curtains up on a summer of discovery and excitement at Lopez Studios! Their camps blend professional training with pure fun, designed to nurture talent in kids and teens and ignite a lifelong love for the arts. Kids are invited to join them for an unforgettable summer experience… MORE

Celebrate the Stars & Stripes at Reston Station
Family fun & fireworks await…
From July 2-4, 2026, you’re invited to Reston Station for three days of free festivities! July 2 features family-friendly activities, live entertainment with a DJ, a performance by Bruce in the USA, and a spectacular fireworks display. The celebration continues July 3 with live music on the plaza, then wraps up July 4 with more live music followed by a movie under the stars… MORE

Behind Perfect Grades Can Be a Child Quietly Overwhelmed
When high achievers need support…
Many parents are beginning to notice that high achievement doesn’t always mean their child is thriving. For some kids and teens, straight A’s, packed schedules, and leadership roles can hide an intense pressure to stay perfect at all costs. Mahogany Counseling’s licensed team brings 25+ years of experience helping families understand what’s really going on with their teens — from perfectionism and physical symptoms to withdrawal and irritability. Learn more about their services and schedule an appointment today… MORE

Growing Little Learners at BeanTree Learning
Supporting every milestone…
Kids thrive when they explore new environments, build interpersonal skills, make new friends, and more! Knowing how children learn best, BeanTree Learning offers early education opportunities that help them reach their full academic and social potential. Get to know them and schedule a private tour today… MORE

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

Newsletter ∙ June 19, 2026

0

June 19, 2026
Calendar ∙ Camp Guide

A Massive New Entertainment Destination Is Now Open!
Get ready to roll, race, and play…
A major new entertainment destination has landed in Loudoun County — Pinstack!

This newly-opened 60,000-square-foot, two-story entertainment center features a zip line, LED rock climbing wall, bowling, arcade games, laser tag, bumper cars, and so much more… MORE

The Big Summer Guide ∙ Summer Movie Magic ∙ Kids Entertainment Series

Stars, Stripes, & Summer Nights!
Your guide to 4th of July fun…
From hometown traditions to big fireworks-filled finales, discover all the ways to celebrate Independence Day! Even better — the fun starts next week!

DullesMoms’ supporters want to share some Extra! Extra! News with you:

Save-the-Date for Stars, Stripes, & Spectacular Sights
A first-ever drone light show is set to take flight…
Get ready for big skies, bright lights, and family fun… something exciting is coming to Lake Fairfax Park on June 27, 2026! In celebration of America’s 250th, experience a day filled with music, food trucks, and outdoor activities. Plus, look skyward for Fairfax County Park Authority’s first-ever drone light show, featuring hundreds of synchronized drones creating dazzling patriotic displays! Plan ahead for this popular, family-friendly event… MORE

For Kids & Teens, Anxiety and Depression Don’t Always Look Like a Struggle
The warning signs aren’t always obvious…
Your high-achieving child may be struggling more than you know. Straight A’s, packed schedules, and a smile that never wavers — for many overachieving kids and teens, that picture-perfect performance is exactly what makes their anxiety and depression so easy to miss. Mahogany Counseling’s licensed mental health team, with more than 25 years of experience working with adolescents and families, focuses on helping kids drop the facade and finally feel seen. Learn more about their services and schedule an appointment today… MORE

Jump-Start Swim Confidence at Goldfish Swim School
Refresh swim skills before the next splash…
The calendar may fill up fast, but there’s always time for water safety. Goldfish Swim School’s Jump Start Clinics help kids stay confident, capable, and comfortable in the water through one focused week of daily lessons. Whether they need extra practice or a seasonal refresher, it’s a great way to keep swim skills sharp all summer long. Find your preferred location (Reston, Alexandria, Falls Church) and register today… MORE

The Countdown to Summer Fun at the Y
Every camper can find their perfect fit…
From outdoor games and arts and crafts to STEM activities, sports, and leadership opportunities, YMCA Summer Camps in Loudoun County keep kids engaged all summer long! Weekly camp themes and hands-on experiences give campers something new to discover each week while creating friendships and memories that last well beyond summer… MORE

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

Newsletter ∙ June 12, 2026

0

June 12, 2026
Calendar ∙ Camp Guide

Arts in the Parks Is Back!
Free performances for kids all summer long…
With everything from high-energy shows to magical moments and interactive experiences, Arts in the Parks offers families a huge line-up of live entertainment all summer long! Even better? Shows are free to attend… MORE

Sails on the Potomac Waterfront Festival
Chart a course for weekend fun…
Sails on the Potomac is bringing together 4 historic tall ships, live entertainment, arts activities, exhibits, fireworks, and more as part of America’s 250th anniversary celebration… MORE

DullesMoms’ supporters want to share some Extra! Extra! News with you:

The Kids Who Aren’t Asking for Help Often Need It Most
Not all signs of stress are obvious…
The conversation around teen mental health continues to grow, especially for overachieving adolescents who rarely show obvious signs of struggle. From self-criticism to physical stress symptoms and emotional exhaustion, these patterns can quietly take hold. Mahogany Counseling creates a safe, culturally sensitive space where kids and teens can step away from perfection and begin to process what they’re truly feeling. Learn more about their services and schedule an appointment today… MORE

Step Into the Summer Spotlight at Lopez Studios
Build skills that last beyond summer…
Get ready to unlock your child’s creativity, confidence, and communication skills! At Lopez Studios’ summer camps, kids and teens have the extraordinary opportunity to explore acting, singing, and dancing alongside professionals who are ready to share their skills and enthusiasm. Make this summer one to remember… MORE

A Summer Filled With Team Spirit
Fun, fitness, and friendly competition…
Kids don’t have to choose just one sport at Herndon Parks & Rec’s Ultimate Sports Summer Camp — they’ll have the chance to try a wide variety! From the first whistle to the final game, it’s a summer experience built around fun and movement… MORE

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

Physical & Mental Benefits of Regular Swim Lessons

By Goldfish Swim School, June 2024

Goldfish Swim School knows swimming is more than just fun in the water — it’s a total-body workout for all ages, even the littlest of swimmers!

From building muscles and endurance to mental and social health benefits, the pool at Goldfish Swim School is the perfect place to gain these advantages — all while having a splish-splash good time!

Full-Body Workout
Swimming engages almost every muscle in your little swimmer’s body, providing a thorough workout that enhances strength, endurance, and flexibility. Whether it’s their arms, legs, core, or back, swim lessons offer a comprehensive workout that’s gentle on the joints.

Cardiovascular Fitness
While heart health isn’t usually top of mind for kids, this building block sets the stage for future fitness. Swimming is an excellent way to elevate heart rate and improve circulation. Swim lessons serve as a great cardio exercise, potentially lowering blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart disease, and enhancing overall cardiovascular health.

Improved Coordination & Balance
What kid couldn’t use a little more coordination and balance? Swimming requires the coordination of various movements to glide smoothly through the water, which helps improve balance and coordination. Regular swim sessions at Goldfish Swim School can enhance these skills, benefiting performance in other physical activities.

Increased Lung Capacity
While we know kids are loud, swimming can help increase healthy lung capacity. Swim lessons involve rhythmic breathing patterns that can increase lung capacity and improve respiratory health. Practicing controlled breathing techniques in the pool helps swimmers enhance lung function and build endurance.

Stress Relief
Kids don’t show stress like adults do. Swimming can be an effective way to relax and reduce stress. The rhythmic movements and the sensation of being in the water help calm both the mind and body.

Mood Enhancement
Like stress, children’s moods are expressed differently than adults. Regular swimming can improve mood by releasing endorphins, the brain’s natural feel-good chemicals. It can help alleviate anxiety, reduce symptoms of depression, and boost overall mental well-being.

Improved Sleep Quality
Hey parents, did someone say sleep?! Engaging in physical activities like swimming has been shown to improve sleep quality. Swimming promotes relaxation and reduces stress, making it easier to fall asleep quickly and enjoy more restful sleep.

Boosted Confidence
All kids, big and little, can use a boost! Learning to swim and mastering new skills can significantly boost a child’s confidence and self-esteem. As kids progress and reach their swimming goals, they gain a sense of accomplishment and pride in their abilities.

New to Goldfish Swim School?
See them in person. Schedule a tour or sign up for a free trial lesson at your preferred location, including:

  • Alexandria, VA
    3155-B Duke St., Alexandria, VA 22314
    (703) 348-3261
  • Falls Church, VA
    7395 Route 29, Ste. K, Falls Church, VA 22042
    (703) 348-3261
  • Reston, VA
    12340 Pinecrest Rd., Reston, VA 20191
    (703) 348-3261