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Newsletter ∙ Jan 15, 2026

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Jan 15, 2026
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Lunar New Year Fun

Free Admission, Full-On-Fun!
It’s never too early to plan for summer…
From roller coasters to splash zones, these amusement parks pair big thrills with free admission benefits worth knowing about… MORE

Little Builders, Big Fun
Free workshops for kids…
From simple tools to big creativity, these free monthly workshops let kids roll up their sleeves and build something memorable… MORE

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

Plan a Night Out, Kid Care Is Covered
Hey parents, reclaim an evening for yourselves! Parents’ Night Out at Reston Community Center Hunters Woods gives kids an exciting evening of games, creative projects, swimming, pizza dinner, and more. Making it even better, there are plenty of dates to register for, from now until May, plus savings with sibling discounts… MORE

Start 2026 With Safer Swimmers
Swim safe and swim strong into 2026 at Goldfish Swim School! Specializing in swim lessons and water safety for young swimmers, Goldfish invites families to register for a free trial lesson in a pool that’s always 90°. And, even though there’s still the chance of snow, it’s never too early to start prepping for a safe, confident summer in the water. Connect with a preferred location (Reston, Alexandria, Falls Church) and sign up today… MORE

Step Inside & See What Families Love About the HCC
On January 24, 2026, the Herndon Community Center (HCC) will open its doors for a community-wide open house! Explore the center’s amenities, discover new activities, and enjoy access to the center’s fitness room and pool. There will even be crafts for kids, Zumba, tennis, and more! Grab your calendar and save-the-date… MORE

See the Difference a Classical Christian Education Can Make
Dominion Christian School, a K-12 classical college-preparatory school, invites families to experience how classical Christian education shapes both hearts and minds. Now enrolling for the 2026-2027 school year, group tours offer parents a front-row seat to Dominion’s unique blend of rigorous academics, faith-centered teaching, and joyful learning, which has been inspiring students for nearly 30 years… MORE

Save-the-Date for Ivybrook Academy’s Open House
Families are invited to step inside Ivybrook Academy’s Winter Wonderland on January 17, 2026! At this special Open House, bring your children and enjoy winter-themed activities, snowball games, and an appearance by Ivy the Owl. For the parents, tour Ivybrook’s newly opened center, meet their teachers and staff, and see how their programs blend Montessori and Reggio Emilia methods to spark a love of learning… MORE

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

Newsletter ∙ Jan 8, 2026

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Jan 8, 2026
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Lunar New Year Celebrations
Celebrate renewal and good fortune…
2026 is the Year of the Horse! These Lunar New Year opportunities are a great way to experience the rich beauty of East Asian traditions, culture, and entertainment… MORE

Can’t-Miss January Fun
New year, new ways to have fun…
The excitement doesn’t end with the holidays — January brings winter fun, indoor adventures, and more to kick off the year… MORE

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

From Broadway Dreams to Big Stage Reality at Lopez Studios
Lights, camera, action! Lopez Studios Inc. Performing Arts Preparatory School’s theatre and acting classes will make your child’s acting dreams a reality! From Broadway and musical theatre to improv and theatre games, there’s something for kids ages 6-15. Register today, classes begin February 5… MORE

Now Enrolling: Programs That Build Your Child’s Social Confidence
Social Groups from The Social Learners help children develop social communication skills through play-based and STEM activities, social stories, role playing, and modeling, all led by a nationally certified Speech-Language Pathologist. Winter-spring opportunities begin soon with flexible rolling enrollment from Feb 7-Apr 25… MORE

Early Education Programs You’ll Feel Confident About
BeanTree Learning knows kids learn through play! Not only do their students use their imaginations, but alongside their friends, they learn cooperation, empathy, communication skills, and more. BeanTree’s early education programs offer play-rich opportunities for kids to reach their potential. Get to know them today… MORE

Pass It On, Pick Something New at the Hobby Exchange
Ready to swap out a hobby that didn’t stick and pick up one that might? Herndon Parks & Rec invites you to save-the-date for their annual (& family-friendly!) Hobby Exchange on February 7, 2026! At this community-driven, family-friendly event, swap gently used hobby supplies and head home with something new to enjoy — all for free… MORE

Soar Together Family Day: Explore Air & Space Technology
The National Air & Space Museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center invites you to its Soar Together Family Day! On January 10, 2026, there will be hands-on activities for all ages, exciting demonstrations, and the chance to meet experts… MORE

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

Mave Waves at Goldfish Swim School

By Goldfish Swim School, Jan 2025

Goldfish Swim Schools offers learn-to-swim opportunities for kids. From little splashers who have never ventured past knee-deep water to young swimmers who might need a skills refresher or confidence boost, Goldfish has a location (Alexandria, VA ∙ Falls Church, VA ∙ Reston, VA) and a class for them!

To determine where they’ll benefit most, parents are invited to check out Goldfish Swim School’s online swim-level assessment tool. With a few clicks, easily find out which level your children will make the biggest splash.

Lessons are broken up with ages and skill levels in mind so kids can make the most of their time in the pool. Not only do they learn more from skilled instructors, but from their classmates, too. Plus, this tried and true approach allows teachers to focus on specific skill sets while helping swimmers get to the next level.

Levels include:

Mini ∙ Ages 4-35 months
The Mini level is for the youngest of swimmers who are just starting out with lessons or have a tiny bit of lesson experience.

Junior ∙ Ages 3-4
Goldfish’s Junior level is for young children who are considered to be beginner to intermediate swimmers.

Glider ∙ Ages 4-12
Like the Junior level, but for the older crowd, the Giider level is for children who are considered to be beginner to intermediate swimmers.

Pro ∙ Ages 4-12
If your children live for the pool, are comfortable with various swim skills, and are more advanced swimmers, the Pro level is for them!

Within each level, advancement is based on Goldfish’s 3-star rating system:

1 Star
Your little fish can perform new skills introduced with the help of their swim instructor.

2 Stars
Young swimmers can perform new skills with just a little help from their instructor or independently.

3 Stars
These fish get three stars for the ability to fully perform a skill independently and consistently!

Once your kiddo has three stars for each skill introduced, they’re ready to swim up to the next level! This star system removes deadlines and allows kids to learn at their own pace — progressing when they are ready.

Goldfish makes it easy to track your child’s progress, too! Their app (Android ∙ iOS) gives you access to a Digital Progress Report to celebrate each stroke of progress. Plus, as children earn their stars and move up levels, it shows detailed schedules and more.

First and foremost, swim lessons encourage water safety skills — teaching kids how to stay safe in and around water — crucial for reducing the risk of drowning. However, did you know mastering new skills boosts children’s self-esteem and encourages a sense of independence and accomplishment?

Swim lessons even help kids work on social skills as they interact with their new friends and instructors. Plus, swimming is known for its therapeutic and calming effects, both beneficial for everyone’s mental and emotional health (especially in Goldfish’s 90° heated pools!).

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

#Goldfish

Free Online Art Generators for Kids (& Parents, Too!)

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By DullesMoms, Jan 2024

Let your kids get creative without the mess! Check out these free online art generators (no downloads required) where kids can explore and create a variety of art!

  • Weave Silk
    Wow! A flick of your mouse creates a beautiful, flowing, silk pattern!
  • Sesame Street Art Maker
    More than online drawing, painting, and more — get creative and make a pizza or decorate a birthday cake, too!
  • Scrap Coloring
    More than a site that allows you to color images — kids can color with dozens and dozens of patterns!
  • Draw a Stick Man
    A seriously cool site where even the youngest child can draw a stick man and watch it come to life in an interactive episode they choose.
  • This is Sand
    Definitely for older children, this took me a minute and a few clicks to figure out. But once I did, it quickly became a favorite. Kids can create sandscapes by piling different-colored sand in any pattern they choose.
  • ABCYa
    An easy-to-use site lets kids draw, paint, color, or stamp on a virtual canvas with a few clicks.
  • Toy Theatre
    Toy Theatre allows you to choose from 40+ art generators, including some really cool snowflake generators, animations, mirror art, and more!
  • Bomono
    A click here and a click there creates moving art!
  • Curious Corner
    Curious Corner, a children’s educational site by the Art Institute of Chicago, offers storytimes, match-up games, and a play-with-art section. Children create portraits, Cornell Boxes, and masks.
  • Flaming Text
    Make a logo, or decorate your name, this digital art maker is intuitive and appeals to all ages!
  • Family Echo
    What a cool way to build a family tree! Kids will better understand how everyone connects through this interactive generator I built!
  • Word Cloud Generator
    This cool word cloud art generator lets you create unique pieces of art!
  • Make Beliefs Comix
    After a few clicks, you’ll be creating your own drag-and-drop comic strips!

Last Updated Dec 29, 2025

Prince William County Library Branches

Discover all your local library has to offer — from learning opportunities learning, special events, and interactive labs — there’s something for all ages!

Explore your branch, or discover a new one today:

City of Alexandria Library Branches

Your local library is more than a place of books — it’s a crossroads of learning, community, special events, and more!

Explore your branch, or discover a new one today:

Arlington County Library Branches

Your local library isn’t just a place to check out books, but a community destination for a world of learning, resources, and special events for all ages!

Explore your branch, or discover a new one today:

Newsletter ∙ Dec 18, 2025

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Dec 18, 2025
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The Big Holiday Guide

The Most Magical Map of the Year
See Santa’s route unfold in real time…
Kick your Christmas countdown up a notch with these clever, interactive Santa Trackers that will keep an eye on a special sleigh packed with presents… MORE

There Are Still Seats at Santa’s Table
Good food meets holiday cheer…
Even with Christmas right around the corner, families can still find plenty of opportunities to enjoy a special Santa dining experience… MORE

Mommy & Me Cake Pop Workshop
Turn dessert time into a family time…
Treat your kids to a hands-on dessert experience at The Conche Chocolate & Cake Studio’s Cake Pop Workshop! Guided by The Conche’s Pastry Chef, side-by-side, parents and kids will mix, dip, and decorate their own cake pops in a fun, all-ages class… MORE

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

Kids Are Invited to Get Stage-Ready
Whether your child’s a budding actor or a future director, Lopez Studios Performing Arts Preparatory School offers a wide variety of classes for them to explore the magic of theatre! Kids will learn from experienced instructors as they take their first steps in the spotlight. Learn more about their winter opportunities that begin soon… MORE

Winter Around the World at Chesterbrook Academy
Chesterbrook Academy invites families to save-the-date for two special January Open Houses! At their Winter Around the World celebrations on Jan 8 (4-6 pm) & Jan 10 (10 am-12 pm), kids and parents can explore their classrooms, meet their dedicated team, and enjoy hands-on activities, crafts, and treats inspired by global winter traditions! It’s the perfect way to see how learning comes to life at CBA… MORE

A Gift That Makes Waves All Year
Goldfish Swim School is celebrating the season with special holiday packages that make gifting easy and unforgettable. Families can save on lessons rooted in the Science of SwimPlay — a playful, confidence-boosting approach taught in a warm, welcoming environment with a 4:1 class ratio and flexible scheduling. With packages designed for every stage of learning, it’s a gift that lasts well beyond the holidays. Find your preferred location and learn more (Reston, Alexandria, Falls Church)… MORE

Free Online Learning for Parents
The LCPS FACE Family Academy’s free online workshops help families stay informed, confident, and engaged in their student’s success. Each session offers practical guidance on topics like supporting learning at home, preparing for college and career pathways, and understanding school assessments. Upcoming opportunities include Learning at Home: Strategies to Support, Challenge, & Inspire (2/11), Pathways & Possibilities: College & Career Readiness for Every Student (3/18), and more… MORE

From Rehearsal Room to Center Stage
This winter, SoHo Performing Arts invites kids and teens to step into a season of creativity as musical theatre programs kick off the first week of January! From classic favorites to high-energy modern hits, students will build confidence through acting, singing, and dancing as they prepare for fully staged productions that families will love. Programs include The Sound of Music, Annie Jr., Into the Woods Jr., Six the Musical Teen, Finding Nemo Kids, and more… MORE

You’re Invited to Explore Excellence in Education
Families are invited to Fairfax Christian School’s winter Open Houses, including Jan 14 & Feb 4, 2026 (9 am-10:30 am). For over 60 years, this award-winning university-prep school has prepared students for success with small classes, individualized support, and a strong curriculum. With immediate enrollment available, families can take advantage of modern facilities, including science and computer labs, a performance hall, and athletic fields… MORE

Big Dreams Start Small: Discover BeanTree Learning
Committed to preparing children to be learners in life and school, BeanTree Learning’s trained educators, low teacher-student ratios, and continued professional development for their staff ensure a safe, secure, and healthy environment! You’re invited to learn more about their early education and afterschool programs… MORE

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

Newsletter ∙ Dec 11, 2025

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Dec 11, 2025
Website ∙ Calendar
The Big Holiday Guide

Must-See Family Shows
Fan-favorite characters are coming to life…
From Bluey and Elmo to Gabby, Peppa Pig, and more, 2026 is shaping up to be a blockbuster year for live family shows on a stage near you… MORE

Summer Starts with Science
Club SciKidz summer camps are officially enrolling…
Families looking for a standout STEM experience will find it at Club SciKidz, where weekly summer camps merge real-world science with hands-on fun! With opportunities in Chantilly, Arlington, and Vienna, kids (4-15 yo) will dive into themes like robotics, medicine, paleontology, and more, all built on lessons created by science educators. From Space Explorers and American Doll to LEGO Robotics, Mini Medical School, and Emergency Vet, Club SciKidz camps spark curiosity and show how science shapes the world… MORE

Holiday Illuminations Around the DMV
A season of sparkle from gardens to farms…
From glittering walk-throughs to dazzling drive-thru displays, discover endless ways to wander, watch, and soak in the glow of the holiday season… MORE

Is Your Garbage Disposal Due For a Professional Fix?
By John C. Flood of VA
From leaks and clogs to strange noises, your family’s garbage disposal might be on its last legs. When choosing to fix or replace it, should you do it yourself or hire a pro? John C. Flood, a full-service home services company, shares what to consider, from safety to savings, so your family can make the smartest (& safest) choice… MORE

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

Step Into the Magic of The Nutcracker
📆 Dec 20-21, 2025
From December 20-21, 2025, The Nutcracker returns to the stage at George Mason University’s Center for the Arts. Featuring stunning choreography by the Fairfax Ballet and guest soloists from the New York City Ballet, this special holiday performance shines with live music performed by the Fairfax Symphony Orchestra. This beloved tradition offers a world-class celebration of music and dance! Get your tickets today… MORE

Get to Know Ivybrook Academy (& Save!) on December 12
📆 Dec 12, 2025
Ivybrook Academy welcomes families to its new school on December 12, 2025, to tour classrooms, meet educators, and learn how individualized guidance and hands-on experiences help each child flourish! With its forward-thinking mix of Montessori and Reggio Emilia, they offer an inspiring place for young learners — plus waived registration for Open House enrollees… MORE

Ready, Set, Sleigh at This Weekend’s Parade
📆 Dec 13, 2025
The holiday spirit will be in full swing this coming weekend at Leesburg’s Christmas & Holiday Parade! On Saturday, December 13, 2025, watch as Santa and his friends are ushered through historic downtown Leesburg, plus marching bands, civic groups, and holiday cheer… MORE

You’re Invited to Explore Excellence in Education
📆 Jan 14 & Feb 4, 2026
Families are invited to Fairfax Christian School’s Winter Open Houses, including Jan 14 & Feb 4, 2026 (9 am-10:30 am). For over 60 years, this award-winning university-prep school has prepared students for success with small classes, individualized support, and a strong curriculum. With immediate enrollment available, families can take advantage of modern facilities, including science and computer labs, a performance hall, and athletic fields… MORE

Cocoa, Crafts & Claus
📆 Dec 14, 2025
There’s still time to register for the Santa Social! On December 14, 2025, the season’s favorite man in red is making his way to Herndon Community Center for an afternoon filled with treats, crafts, and games. There will even be a special meet-and-greet and photo opportunity with Mr. Claus, too… MORE

Winter Around the World at Chesterbrook Academy
📆 Jan 8 & 10, 2026
Chesterbrook Academy invites families to save-the-date for two special 2026 Open Houses! At their Winter Around the World celebrations on Jan 8 (4-6 pm) & Jan 10 (10 am-12 pm), kids and parents can explore their classrooms, meet their dedicated team, and enjoy hands-on activities, crafts, and treats inspired by global winter traditions! It’s the perfect way to see how learning comes to life at CBA… MORE

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

The Corner Pocket — Fairfax County’s Best-Kept Secret

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By DullesMoms, Dec 2023

Did you know The Corner Pocket — George Mason University’s student arcade — is open to the public? Boasting a diverse gaming experience, including pool, ping pong, air hockey, virtual reality (VR) adventures, and more, it’s packed with unbeatable fun!

More than dropping in for some gaming fun, they’re also a great place to host private events, too! From birthday bashes to community fundraisers, you’re able to get exclusive access with unlimited gameplay, accommodating up to 250 guests.

Conveniently located near the Shenandoah parking garage on George Mason University’s Fairfax Campus, The Corner Pocket is one of Fairfax County’s best-kept secrets!

Details:
Website

Location:
The Corner Pocket ∙ Fairfax, VA (Map)

LEARN MORE

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