Newsletter ∙ Dec 4, 2025

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Dec 4, 2023

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Dec 4, 2025
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The Big Holiday Guide

Holiday Magic in Every Note
The Nutcracker brings the ballet and symphony together…
This year’s Nutcracker with the Fairfax Symphony and Fairfax Ballet offers a holiday experience to remember!

Featuring guest soloists from New York City Ballet, the production brings world-class artistry to Northern Virginia. Hosted at GMU’s Center for the Arts from December 20-21, 2025, audiences will see snowflakes swirl, toy soldiers march, and the Sugar Plum Fairy take the stage with live orchestra magic.

Save 20% on tickets with online code DM20… MORE

QUICK LOOK: German Christmas Markets

Give the Gift of Play
With a National Children’s Museum membership…
Surprise your friends and family with a gift membership to the National Children’s Museum! You’ll be unlocking a year of unlimited admission, members-only playtime, access to special events, and the chance to experience upcoming exhibits featuring beloved characters like Mo Willems’ Pigeon, Curious George, and Dinosaurs! A National Children’s Museum membership is a gift that keeps unwrapping all year long… MORE

Garbage Disposal Broken? Hire a Pro or Do-it-Yourself?
By John C. Flood of VA
Thinking of installing or replacing a garbage disposal at home? For families juggling busy routines, it can be tempting to try it on your own. John C. Flood, a full-service home services company, shares what to consider, from safety to savings, so your family can make the smartest (and safest) choice… MORE

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

Handmade Holiday Magic Awaits You in Leesburg
📆 Dec 6-7, 2025
At the Town of Leesburg’s Holiday Fine Arts and Crafts Show, shop from dozens of artisans and small businesses selling handcrafted gifts, including candles, fine art, carved wood, jewelry, seasonal items, and more! Find the perfect gifts (and maybe a little something for yourself, too!)… MORE

Holiday Magic Is Coming to Loudoun County
📆 Dec 6, 2025
Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year — PRCS WinterFest returns to Hal and Berni Hanson Regional Park, bringing families together for a day of winter fun! Kids will love the ice games, glitter tattoos, and Frozen-inspired characters, while parents can shop the holiday market and enjoy local eats. Best of all, Santa will make an appearance, too… MORE

Experience the Magic of Frozen Kids
📆 Jan 10, 2026
Lopez Studios’ talented cast of kids and teens is bringing the magic of Arendelle to life in a live, professionally produced show at Franklin Park Arts Center. Experience a little winter magic as Elsa, Anna, and their friends take the stage for Frozen Kids. Don’t miss the magic — get your tickets today… MORE

Free Family Learning Series Continues This Winter
📆 Dec 10, 2025
The LCPS FACE Family Academy’s free online workshops help families guide student success all year long. Join Course Selection: Helping Students Make Informed Choices to learn how to navigate class options and future goals. Then, on February 11, 2026, explore Learning at Home: Strategies to Support, Challenge, and Inspire for creative ways to encourage study skills, independence, and curiosity… MORE

Holiday Packages at Goldfish Swim School
Goldfish Swim School is inviting families to make a splash with limited-time holiday packages that offer meaningful savings on lessons designed to build confidence and water safety! With heated pools, small class ratios, and lessons for all ages, it’s your chance to surprise your young swimmer this holiday season. Find your preferred location and learn more (Reston, Alexandria, Falls Church)… MORE

Big Dreams Start Small: Discover BeanTree Learning
Committed to preparing children to be learners in life and school, BeanTree Learning provides trained educators, low teacher-student ratios, and high-quality programs. You’re invited to learn more about their early education and afterschool opportunities… MORE

Deck the Halls, Herndon-Style
📆 Dec 7, 2025
The Herndon Community Center will transform into a holiday shopping destination, featuring more than 80 artisans and craftspeople. Discover standout vendors offering custom wreaths, handcrafted jewelry, holiday décor, original art, and more — plus plenty of homemade treats to enjoy… MORE

Learning Comes to Life at Ivybrook Academy — Discover How This Month
📆 Dec 12, 2025
Save the date for a special Open House at Ivybrook Academy! Meet teachers, tour classrooms, and explore their Montessori- and Reggio-inspired curriculum shaped around each child’s unique strengths. Plus, enroll during the event, and they’ll waive the registration fee… MORE

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

Newsletter ∙ Nov 20, 2025

Newsletters

DullesMoms

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Nov 20, 2023

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Nov 20, 2025
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Ride the Rails With Santa
All aboard for merry miles…
From classic steam engines to modern rail adventures, explore all these holiday train opportunities perfect for a family like yours… MORE

Plus, these local faves!

Holiday Sing-a-Long @ Wolf Trap
A little jingle, a lot of joy…
The date for Wolf Trap’s annual holiday event, featuring the United States Marine Band, has been announced! Even better? Admission is free! Register for your tix… MORE

HVAC System Nearing the End of Its Lifespan?
By John C. Flood of VA
Not sure if it’s worth repairing or replacing your HVAC system? John C. Flood explains the 50% rule — a simple guideline families can use when deciding whether to invest in repairs or upgrade to a new system… MORE

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

Snow Much Fun Awaits at PRCS WinterFest
📆 Dec 6, 2025
On December 6, 2025, families are invited to Hal & Berni Hanson Regional Park for PRCS WinterFest — a community celebration filled with sparkle and seasonal charm! Enjoy ice games & sculptures, inflatables, storytelling, train rides, visits from Frozen-inspired friends, and more. Even Santa will make an appearance! Plus, admission is free, with food vendors and local businesses adding to the fun… MORE

Holiday Magic in Every Note
📆 Dec 20-21, 2025
Families can enjoy something truly enchanting this holiday season at GMU’s Center for the Arts. From December 20-21, 2025, the Fairfax Symphony Orchestra joins the Fairfax Ballet for The Nutcracker — a holiday classic brought to life with live music, dazzling dance, and a sprinkle of seasonal magic. Save 20% on tickets with online code DM20… MORE

Frozen Kids Takes the Stage
📆 Jan 10, 2026
From “Let It Go” to “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?”, Frozen Kids is coming to Franklin Park Arts Center as a full-length, professional production on January 10, 2026. Featuring Lopez Studios’ talented cast of kids and teens, this special live show will deliver Broadway-style polish with youthful energy. Get your tickets today… MORE

You’re Invited to Discover the Chesterbrook Academy Difference
For 40 years, Chesterbrook Academy has nurtured young learners in a safe and supportive environment where children engage in hands-on activities, imaginative play, and collaborative learning that fosters growth every day. Through their “Links to Learning” curriculum, Chesterbrook helps young learners build academic, social, and emotional skills for success, while teachers guide each child to feel confident, valued, and eager to learn! You’re invited to get to know them! Explore all they have to offer — click on your preferred location and schedule a personalized tour today… MORE

Goldfish Swim School: Year-Round Lessons, Lifelong Skills
Offering year-round opportunities, lessons at Goldfish Swim School reinforce your child’s hard-won skills, keeping them water-safe. At this premier learn-to-swim destination, classes are designed to make learning fun — celebrating milestones big and small. Learn more at your preferred location (Reston, Alexandria, Falls Church)… 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

Catch Big Birthday Energy This Fall
Celebrate your birthday-kiddo’s autumn or winter milestone with a birthday party at Monkey Joe’s! Inside their jungle-themed indoor playground, including inflatables and slides for all ages, celebrations are always weather-perfect! Start planning for a day of fun and memories… MORE

BeanTree Learning: Where Bright Futures Take Root
Children’s eagerness to explore and ask questions is a constant source of joy at BeanTree Learning! Through their early childhood education and afterschool programs, their teachers encourage young students to learn and grow academically and socially! Visit them online and learn more about their accredited programs for infants through kindergarten-age students… MORE

Family Night Deal: $1 Kids’ Meals on Saturdays
Treat your family to fresh at El Fresco Tex-Mex Grill! From 5-8 pm on Saturdays, kids 12 & under enjoy $1 dine-in meals from the children’s menu (not valid with other promos). See menus & locations… MORE

Free Online Workshop: Supporting Smart Course Choices
📆 Dec 10, 2025
On December 10, 2025, the LCPS FACE Family Academy presents Course Selection: Helping Students Make Informed Choices, a free online session that helps families guide students through selecting classes for success. Learn how to match course options with interests, strengths, and future goals, plus get insider tips on navigating the course planner and making confident decisions together… MORE

Jingle Bell Rock & Run
📆 Dec 13, 2025
We’re just around the corner from the Jingle Bell Rock & Run, a 5/10K race, plus a 1-mile Jammie Jingle run/walk! More than a run, it’s fun for all ages, including family activities, live music, and big prizes… MORE

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

Little Goat Farm @ the Lake

New!

DullesMoms

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Nov 14, 2023

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By DullesMoms, Sept 2026

The Little Goat Farm at the Lake is a private, non-profit home for rescue animals located on beautiful Lake Manassas in Prince William County.

This special destination offers lots of opportunities, all of which include its menagerie of furry friends. You might get the chance to visit with a snowy white alpaca named Marshmallow, plus Cupcake, a mini donkey, a gang of toddler goats, chickens, and more!

Opportunities include:

Goat yoga
Animal snuggles & bottle feeding
Locally grown floral bouquets & flower bar
Farm products (fresh eggs, honey, and seasonal goods)
Private events & parties
Volunteer opportunities

Please note: The farm is not open for walk-in public hours; all visits require advance tickets or a private event reservation.

The Little Goat Farm at the Lake is located in Nokesville, VA, just 35 minutes southwest of Dulles Airport. See all their upcoming events here.

Details:
Website ∙ Eventbrite

Location:
Little Goat Farm at the Lake ∙ Nokesville, VA 20181

LEARN MORE

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

Newsletter ∙ Nov 13, 2025

Newsletters

DullesMoms

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Nov 13, 2023

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Nov 13, 2025
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Santa Meet & Eats
Festive spots for merry meals…
Join Santa as he fuels up for his big day! Check out all these opportunities to eat with him — from holiday brunches to yummy snacks… MORE

50+ Holiday Markets
Seasonal opportunities to browse and buy…
Our big guide gets bigger every day! Find the best of homemade, handcrafted, and artisan gifts at 50+ shopping events in our Holiday Market Guide… MORE

Indoor Play Guide
Go-to destinations for all-weather fun…
Take advantage of all the indoor play destinations NOVA offers — discover a new spot or make memories at your fav place… MORE

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

One Weekend, Thousands of Finds
📆 Nov 13-16, 2025
Skip the retail runaround! This weekend, at Just Between Friends Winter Sale — score everything you need for your growing family, including strollers, winter coats, holiday outfits, & everyday essentials at wallet-friendly prices! Shop November 13-16, 2025, at Twinbrooke Shopping Center in Fairfax… MORE

Goldfish Swim School: Year-Round Lessons, Lifelong Skills
Offering year-round opportunities, lessons at Goldfish Swim School reinforce your child’s hard-won skills, keeping them water-safe. At this premier learn-to-swim destination, classes are designed to make learning fun — celebrating milestones big and small. Learn more at your preferred location (Reston, Alexandria, Falls Church)… MORE

Run, Jog, or Walk to Register for Herndon’s Hometown Tradition
📆 Nov 22, 2025
Herndon’s family-friendly Turkey Trot 5K on November 22, 2025, is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season! Join neighbors and friends for a scenic cross-country course, festive post-race celebrations, and that unbeatable small-town cheer that makes Herndon so special… MORE

Get Ready for a Magical Adventure in Arendelle
📆 Jan 10, 2026
Tickets are now on sale for Frozen Kids, a professionally produced Broadway-style show performed by Lopez Studios’ talented young cast! This live, full-length production, on January 10, 2026, features the beloved story of Elsa and Anna, their group of friends, and all the songs families know by heart. Get ready to sing along — get your tickets today… MORE

Join Ivybrook Academy for a Morning of Discovery
📆 Nov 14, 2025
Preschool parents are invited to a special Discovery Day at Ivybrook Academy! On November 14, 2025, at 10:30 am, families will enjoy a special storytime, explore the school’s interactive math curriculum, and get creative during a mini workshop. See firsthand how Ivybrook blends Montessori and Reggio Emilia methods to spark a lifelong love of learning; register today… MORE

Help Your Student Choose Courses with Confidence
📆 Dec 10, 2025
The LCPS FACE Family Academy invites families to join Course Selection: Helping Students Make Informed Choices on December 10, 2025. This free online workshop offers guidance on supporting your student through the course selection process — from exploring interests and strengths to planning for long-term goals. Families will gain practical tips for using the course planner, understanding prerequisites, and asking the right questions… MORE

Give Thanks & Give Back
📆 Until Nov 26, 2025
Reston Community Center’s Thanksgiving Drive supports Cornerstones through a unique three-way partnership with RCC, the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce, and local businesses. Until November 26, 2025, families are invited to spread a little kindness by donating non-perishable foods, such as rice, beans, canned fruit, shelf-stable milk, and grocery gift cards, as well as new socks and t-shirts, at designated drop-off locations throughout Reston… MORE

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

BeanTree Learning: Where Bright Futures Take Root
Children’s eagerness to explore and ask questions is a constant source of joy at BeanTree Learning! Through their early childhood education and afterschool programs, their teachers encourage young students to learn and grow academically and socially! Visit them online and learn more about their accredited programs for infants through kindergarten-age students… MORE

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

Understanding the Roles of Pediatric Mental Health Professionals

Parenting

DullesMoms

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Nov 13, 2023

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Understanding the Roles of Pediatric Mental Health Professionals

By DullesMoms, July 2023

Navigating the complexities of a child’s mental and emotional well-being can be challenging for parents and kids alike.

Throughout the ages and stages of growing up, kids might start to show signs of needing professional mental health support. From relationship issues and excessive worry to self-destructive behavior, it’s important to know who to reach out to for help (in an emergency, always call 911).

Under the guidance of your child’s doctor and with a better understanding of the difference between counselors, therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists, you’ll be on the path to finding help for your child.

PEDIATRIC COUNSELOR
These professionals, often with a master’s degree in psychology, counseling, or social work, are trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling. This includes Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), who can offer case management and advocacy, and Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), who focus on individual and group therapy.

PEDIATRIC THERAPIST
While this term can overlap with counselors, it often encompasses a broader range of mental health professionals, including those who specialize in/are licensed in a specific type of therapy.

PEDIATRIC PSYCHOLOGIST
Holding a doctoral degree in psychology, pediatric psychologists specialize in studying behaviors and mental processes. They assist children in understanding and managing various life problems and mental health issues. Additionally, they are qualified to conduct psychological assessments to evaluate cognitive and emotional functioning.

PEDIATRIC PSYCHIATRIST
As medical doctors, pediatric psychiatrists are uniquely qualified to prescribe medication for mental and emotional illnesses. They can also evaluate and diagnose patients and, in some cases, provide therapy services. Their role is essential in developing comprehensive treatment plans that address both the psychological and biological aspects of mental health conditions.

Within each profession, there are also those with a specific focus, training, or specialty, which can seem overwhelming. If you’re unsure where to start, use your community for guidance and recommendations. While your child’s doctor is always the first step, other resources include your kid’s school, fellow parents, and even local support groups.

RESOURCES
Here are a few resources available through your County:

FAIRFAX COUNTY

LOUDOUN COUNTY

ARLINGTON COUNTY

Please note, this content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Children’s Fear of the Dark

Parenting

DullesMoms

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Nov 9, 2023

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By DullesMoms, Aug 2023

Fear of the dark, technically called nyctophobia, is a common fear among children. But, how did it begin? How did your little one decide one day that dark was scary?

∙ Psychological Factors
∙ Social & Cultural Factors
∙ Developmental Factors
∙ Helping Your Child

Psychological Factors
Fear of the dark often emerges around the time children begin to grasp the concept of risk and danger. Without the visual information that light provides, children may feel uncertain and imagine dangers that they cannot see or assess.

Social & Cultural Factors
Cultural narratives and media can also influence a child’s fear of the dark. Stories and movies often portray darkness as a setting for scary events, which can reinforce a child’s fear. Parental reactions to a child’s fear can either exacerbate or alleviate the concern. Overprotective responses may unintentionally confirm that the dark is something to be feared, while supportive guidance can help children manage their fears.

Developmental Factors
Children’s fears often correlate with normal cognitive and emotional development. As children’s imaginations expand during the preschool years, they begin to engage in magical thinking and struggle to differentiate between reality and fantasy. In the dark, where visibility is limited, their imaginations can run wild, turning shadows into monsters or soft sounds into unseen threats.

Additionally, separation anxiety can play a role. Darkness often coincides with bedtime, which for many children means a time of separation from their parents, compounding the fear.

2-3 Years Old
Fear of the dark may begin as early as age two and continue through the preschool years to age 5. Emotional signs at this stage often include panic and anxiety, as this is the time when a child’s imagination is burgeoning.

3-4 Years Old
A fear of the dark usually first occurs around the age of 3 or 4. It’s a period when a child’s understanding of the world is expanding, and their fear may manifest as a feeling of being powerless over their fear or a desperate need to escape the situation.

5-6 Years Old
This age group is still in the preschool range, so their fears are similar to those of toddlers and younger preschoolers, but they might start to develop more specific scenarios in their minds due to their increased exposure to stories and media.

7-9 Years Old
Children tend to experience peak intensity of fear of the dark around ages 7-9. This is when they begin to discern reality from fiction, and fears may shift toward real-life concerns such as getting hurt or the presence of intruders. Nightmares may also play a significant role in fear at this stage.

Up to 12 Years Old
By the time children reach the age of 12, most have outgrown their fear of the dark. However, it’s not uncommon for fear of the dark to last through late elementary school and into middle school for some.

Helping Children
There are many ways to help kids, young and old, overcome their fear of the dark. However, keep in mind that it’s important to be patient and to recognize fear of the dark usually diminishes with age as maturity allows children to differentiate between imagined and real dangers.

To help children overcome their fear of the dark, consider the following strategies:

Confidence & Validation
Exude confidence when addressing your child’s fear and validate their feelings. A positive and matter-of-fact approach can reassure them.

Praise After Facing Fears
Celebrate your child’s bravery after they face their fear. Praise them for staying in bed all night or for any small victories over their fear.

Consistent Bedtime Routine
Establish and maintain a calming bedtime routine that might include reading, singing, or quiet time, ending with reassuring words.

Relaxation Techniques
Teach your child ways to relax at night, like breathing exercises or listening to soothing music. A transition object like a stuffed animal can also be comforting.

Promote Curiosity
When children ask about monsters or scary things, ask questions that encourage them to think critically instead of dismissing their fears outright.

Practice Being in the Dark
Use the daytime to practice being in the dark through fun activities like shadow puppets or glow stick dance parties to show darkness isn’t always scary.

Identify the Fear
Ask open-ended questions to understand what specific aspects of the dark frighten your child. Knowing the root cause can help address their fear more effectively.

Avoid Reinforcing the Fear
Acknowledge your child’s fear, but don’t reinforce it by checking for monsters, which might suggest there’s something to fear. Reassure them of their safety instead.

Stay in the Room
Encourage your child to stay in their room to face their fear. Provide comfort if necessary, but reinforce the idea that their bed and room are safe spaces.

Empowerment During the Day
Strengthen your child’s self-confidence and coping skills during the day. Discussing fears when it’s light outside can help them feel more in control at night.

Please note, this content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Newsletter ∙ Nov 6, 2025

Newsletters

DullesMoms

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Nov 6, 2023

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Nov 6, 2025
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Kick Off the Season at These November Parades
A merry must-see for all ages…
These holiday parades (some starting in just two weeks!) are the perfect way to welcome the holidays!

March into merry — click to see them all… MORE

The Wiggles Are Set to Hit the Stage
Get ready to sing along to your favorite songs…
Hot potato, hot potato! The Wiggles are hitting the road for their biggest and brightest show yet — Tree of Wisdom Spectacular! Tickets go on sale November 7, 2025 — and they’re sure to sell like hot potatoes… MORE

Repair or Replace? What You Should Know About HVAC Systems
By John C. Flood of VA
Strange noises, uneven cooling, or an unresponsive thermostat don’t always mean it’s time for a new system. John C. Flood explains which issues can often be repaired, giving families peace of mind without the expense of a full replacement… MORE

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

Save Big on Kid Essentials
From November 13-16, 2025, local families can shop for thousands of gently used kids’ items at 50-90% off retail prices at the Just Between Friends Winter Sale! From clothing, shoes, toys, books, baby gear, and more, inspected for quality and safety at Twinbrooke Shopping Center in Fairfax — you’ll find everything you need for your growing family… MORE

See the Difference a Classical Christian Education Can Make
Dominion Christian School, a K-12 classical college-preparatory school, is now accepting applications for the 2026-2027 school year. Register for a group tour and learn how classical learning creates thinkers who love to learn and live with purpose. Experience classrooms alive with discussion, faith, and curiosity, and meet the dedicated teachers who make it all possible… MORE

A Morning of Hands-On Fun for Little Ones
Families are invited to Discovery Day at Ivybrook Academy — a special experience designed just for little learners! On November 14, 2025, at 10:30 am, enjoy storytime, explore Ivybrook’s hands-on math curriculum, and participate in a creative expression mini workshop. It’s the perfect way to see how Ivybrook’s Montessori and Reggio Emilia approaches nurture curiosity, confidence, and creativity in every child. Register today… MORE

You’re Invited to Discover the Chesterbrook Academy Difference
For 40 years, Chesterbrook Academy has nurtured young learners in a safe and supportive environment where children engage in hands-on activities, imaginative play, and collaborative learning that fosters growth every day. Through their Links to Learning curriculum, Chesterbrook helps young learners build academic, social, and emotional skills for success, while teachers guide each child to feel confident, valued, and eager to learn! You’re invited to get to know them! Explore all they have to offer, plus click on your preferred location and schedule a personalized tour today… MORE

Free Workshops That Empower Families & Students
The LCPS FACE Family Academy’s free online workshops give parents the tools to guide their child’s educational success. On November 12, 2025, discover Next Level Ready: Helping Students Transition Through School Milestones to learn how to support your child during key changes. On December 10, 2025, don’t miss Course Selection: Helping Students Make Informed Choices for tips on selecting courses that align with your student’s goals and strengths… MORE

Spice Up Your Weekend With $1 Meals for Kids
From Carne Asada Con Camaron to handcrafted tacos and more, El Fresco Tex-Mex Grill has something for all ages! Even better? Kids 12 and under can enjoy $1 dine-in meals at all their locations on Saturdays from 5-8 pm (not valid with other offers)… MORE

Jump Into Joy This Leafy Season
Celebrate your little monkey’s autumn milestone with a birthday party at Monkey Joe’s! Inside their jungle-themed indoor playground, including inflatables and slides for all ages, celebrations are always weather-perfect! Start planning for a day of fun and memories… MORE

Herndon’s Ho-Ho Holiday Lineup Is Here
Families are invited to mark their calendars for Herndon Parks & Rec’s can’t-miss holiday events — from the festive Turkey Trot 5K (11/22) to the Holiday Arts & Crafts Show (12/7), and finally the Santa Social (12/14)! Celebrate local traditions and make memories all season long… MORE

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

10 Toddler (& Mom) Approved Snacks

Parenting

DullesMoms

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Oct 31, 2023

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By DullesMoms, Mar 2023

More than providing for hungry little ones, the right snack can make or break a toddler’s mood! Check out these ten toddler (& mom) approved snacks that are not only healthy, but yummy, too!

Yogurt & Fresh Fruit
Full-fat yogurt provides essential fats needed for brain development, while fresh fruits add natural sweetness and fiber. Serve a small bowl of yogurt with diced fruits like berries, peaches, or mango (make sure the fruit is in small, manageable pieces to prevent choking).

Vegetable Sticks & Hummus
Slice vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers into sticks and serve with hummus. This combination offers fiber, vitamins, and protein.

Whole Grain Crackers with Cheese
Whole grain crackers provide fiber and essential nutrients, and when paired with cheese, they offer a good source of protein and calcium (make sure the cheese is pasteurized).

Fruit & Vegetable Smoothies
Blend a mix of fruits and vegetables with a base of milk or yogurt. This drink is a delicious way to incorporate various nutrients into your toddler’s diet.

Cottage Cheese & Pineapple
Cottage cheese is rich in protein, and when combined with pineapple, it becomes a tasty and nutritious snack (make sure the fruit is in small, manageable pieces to prevent choking).

Hard-Boiled Eggs
Eggs are an excellent source of protein and various nutrients. Serve hard-boiled eggs sliced or as finger food (make sure they are thoroughly cooked to avoid the risk of salmonella).

Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potatoes are high in vitamin A and fiber. Cut them into strips, lightly coat them with olive oil, and bake until crispy.

Whole Grain Cereal & Milk
Choose a low-sugar, whole-grain cereal and serve it with milk. This combination provides fiber, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Peanut Butter on Whole Wheat Bread
For children not at risk of a peanut/tree nut-related allergy, spread a thin layer of unsalted peanut butter on whole-wheat bread (smooth peanut butter to prevent choking hazards). This provides healthy fats, protein, and fiber.

Frozen Yogurt Bites
Drop small spoonfuls of yogurt onto a parchment-lined tray and freeze. These frozen yogurt bites make for a refreshing and calcium-rich snack.

Like with anything you serve a little one, always ensure that snacks are age-appropriate in size and texture to prevent choking, and always supervise toddlers while eating.

Please note, this content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Newsletter ∙ Oct 30, 2025

Newsletters

DullesMoms

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Oct 30, 2023

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Oct 30, 2025
Website ∙ Calendar
Weekend Fun: Fall Festivals

Halloween Hot Spots
Candy-filled fun is in full swing…
No tricks — just treats here! Check out our big guide to trick-or-treating fun to make memories and score some candy… MORE

Leesburg Halloween Parade
Things are getting spooky in Loudoun…
On Thursday, October 30, 2025, get into the spirit of things (& wear your Halloween best) for Leesburg’s annual Halloween Parade — one of the oldest in the US… MORE

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

Enjoy a Pumpkin Play Date at Kids World Montessori
On October 31, 2025, families are invited to Kids World Montessori for a Pumpkin Exploration event! From a special storytime and sensory pumpkin fun to themed activities, playground time, and even snacks — this themed opportunity promises a morning of fun for little ones! Learn more and register in advance for this free community event… MORE

It’s a Big Weekend at the Big Flea
This weekend, families are invited to explore rows of antiques, collectibles, and one-of-a-kind finds at the DC Big Flea & Antiques Market, from November 1-2, 2025! As the mid-Atlantic’s largest indoor flea market, this shopping event is a must for collectors, treasure hunters, and anyone who loves discovering something new-to-you! Admission is just $10 for the entire weekend, and kids 12 & under are free… MORE

Goldfish Swim School: Year-Round Lessons, Lifelong Skills
Offering year-round opportunities, lessons at Goldfish Swim School reinforce your child’s hard-won skills, keeping them water-safe. At this premier learn-to-swim destination, classes are designed to make learning fun — celebrating milestones big and small. Learn more at your preferred location (Reston, Alexandria, Falls Church)… MORE

Spice Up Your Weekend with $1 Meals for Kids
From Carne Asada Con Camaron to handcrafted tacos and more, El Fresco Tex-Mex Grill has something for all ages! Even better? Kids 12 & under can enjoy $1 dine-in meals at all their locations on Saturdays from 5-8 pm (not valid with other offers)… MORE

Get Your Tickets for a Spine-Tingling Holiday Mash-Up!
Step into the world of Jack Skellington for a night that’s part trick, part treat! On November 7, 2025, Disney’s Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas in Concert Live-to-Film comes to Capital One Hall in Tysons — featuring the Fairfax Symphony Orchestra and conductor Jason Seber performing Danny Elfman’s magical score live. It’s where spooky meets spectacular, and every note feels like holiday cheer gone deliciously astray. Surprise your family with tickets today… MORE

You’re Invited to Explore Excellence in Education
Families are invited to Fairfax Christian School’s Open House on November 5, 2025. For over 60 years, this award-winning university-prep school has prepared students for success with small classes, individualized support, and a strong curriculum. Why put your kids in daycare when they can teach them to read? With immediate enrollment available, families can take advantage of modern facilities, including science and computer labs, a performance hall, and athletic fields… MORE

Score Big This Fall with i9 Sports
i9 Sports offers high-quality, community-based leagues this season with a focus on fun, sportsmanship, and age-appropriate competition for athletes ages 3-14. Programs include Indoor Soccer, Basketball, and Volleyball in Loudoun and Fairfax. The late fall season (beginning November 1) and winter leagues (beginning January 10) are weekend-only, with practices held immediately before games and no tryouts required. Choose your location and register today… Loudoun & Fairfax

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

The Psychology of Halloween Costumes

Advice: Dr. Michael Oberschneider

DullesMoms

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Oct 27, 2023

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By Dr. Michael Oberschneider, Ashburn Psychological & Psychiatric Services

Hero, monster, princess, or something sexy? A costume can reveal a great deal about a child’s development.

Halloween is one of the most fun times of the year for children. The meaning of Halloween runs deep in our culture — it’s a time to celebrate, a time for treats, a time for being spooky or silly, a time for costumes, and a time to enjoy family and friends.

When we reflect on some of our fondest childhood memories, most of us have at least one or two Halloween moments. What costume your child selects can say a lot about who they are or where they are developmentally.

∙ Gore & the Macabre
∙ Princesses
∙ Heros & Villians
∙ Costumes with Guns, Swords, & Other Weapons
∙ Going Sexy

GORE & THE MACABRE
Many young children are fascinated by monster costumes, but what message lies behind the mask? Perhaps Frankenstein’s monster symbolizes science gone bad and what can happen when man plays God too well. On the other hand, vampires are believed to represent repressed sexuality. Others have posited that zombies symbolize excesses of consumer capitalism, dissatisfaction with conformity, and a loss of individuality.

Is it a coincidence that zombies were first introduced in film after the Great Depression, and they gained popularity in the media after the last recession, during a time when the US economy struggled again?

Of course, children drawn to monsters are likely unaware of their unconscious motivations, but they are certainly there. In my opinion, for example, children are drawn to zombies because, as far as scary creatures go, they are a relatively safe choice. Zombies are slow and unintelligent, and one could quickly get away from a groaning pack of them if needed. In addition, children are sensitive, and I think they also empathize and identify with the plight of zombies; zombies were once human, and they roam about blindly, just wanting to return to their former selves.

Pretending to be a monster on Halloween can also give a child a sense of control and power — two things children do not usually have a lot of. Developmentally, children must address and work through various fears and problems as they grow up, and pretending to be a monster certainly makes monsters, or whatever fears or challenges may be present, a little less scary and unsettling. In addition, when a child dresses up as a monster, they use their imagination to proactively gain confidence and a greater sense of mastery in the world.

PRINCESSES
Children tend to pick costumes that personify their gender roles, which is undoubtedly true for many little girls fascinated with and enthralled by princesses. What little girl does not want to be beautiful and special and to get a lot of attention for being both? It’s even in our colloquial vernacular for girls to be “daddy’s little princess.”

Some parents are concerned that our culture is overly obsessed with body image and appearance, and encouraging little girls to dress up like princesses only feeds the problem. In my opinion, girls will grow up to be strong and confident because of the lessons we teach them and the values we instill in them as parents, but if your daughter wants to pretend to be a Disney Princess for Halloween, let her.

Your daughter will also likely encounter many other Frozen characters, such as Elsa or Anna, Belle, Moana, or Ariel, this year; thus, her costume will aid in her peer socialization. On the other hand, if your daughter wants to dress in a more gender-neutral or masculine costume, that is perfectly fine.

HEROS & VILLAINS
Spiderman, Batman, Thor, Wonder Woman, Superman, the Incredible Hulk, Iron Man, and other superheroes are always popular Halloween costumes.

Developmentally, children like superheroes as much as they do because they can identify with the concrete and straightforward message that there is good and evil in the world. Until about ten years old, children are black-and-white in their thinking, and they cannot yet process or understand the more complex or abstract aspects of people or behavior.

So, for example, older children and adults can appreciate the assorted complexities of Batman’s psyche (i.e., the impact of his parents’ death on his later motivations to fight crime) and his vigilante approach to justice. Still, your 5-year-old wants to see Batman throw the Joker in jail because Batman is good, and the Joker is evil. Police officers and fireman costumes are also popular with children who have internalized the message that it’s good to be good.

Being a villain gives a child freedom in their imagination to be playful with the idea of being good or bad. Children are curious about villains and bad guys; they know that people are not supposed to be mean, bad, or evil, so they wonder what makes them that way.

This is perhaps why Darth Vader is always around on Halloween. Children who like Star Wars know that Vader is a villain to be feared, but they also know his backstory, making him somewhat of a sympathetic character. Ask any young Star Wars fan if Anakin is good or bad, and the child will likely say he is good. Ask that same child if Darth Vader is good or bad, and they will mostly say that Vader is evil. But when you ask a young child to elaborate on why Anakin became Vader, they will have trouble explaining things.

That is because younger children do not possess the intellectual resources to fully comprehend Anakin’s catastrophic emotional conflicts — his tortured guilt over his mother’s death, his fragile sense of self about essential others that followed, his compensatory hunger for power, or how the Chancellor capitalized on his emotional vulnerabilities to turn him to the dark side.

COSTUMES WITH GUNS, SWORDS, & OTHER WEAPONS
Given the numerous mass shooting tragedies in the US in recent years, more and more parents are concerned about the presence of guns in their children’s play and at Halloween. So, why are children, especially boys, so into guns, swords, and other weapons, and should we restrict them at Halloween?

Evolutionary psychologists have argued that our children’s fascination with weapons may be deep-seated in the human experience and psyche. Humans were once hunters and gatherers, and children are just playing out what is now in the fabric of their DNA, their survival instinct as primitive men. Freudians might instead argue that a young boy’s interest in guns, swords, cannons, and other types of weapons actually represents phallic symbolism and a normal developmental phase.

Regardless of the motivation, I think children’s costumes with weapons are fine as long as there is no overemphasis on or preoccupation with the weapon. Sure, Jake and the Never Land Pirate costume has a sword, the Woody costume from Toy Story has a gun, and several other costumes have weapons — ninjas, Star Wars characters, police officers, soldiers, etc. However, alongside the costumes featuring firearms, there are also numerous other fun and essential accessories to get your child excited about.

GOING SEXY
As human beings, we are sexual beings, and the expression of sexuality can even show up in our children’s costume requests. But what do fishnet stockings, push-up bustiers, high heels, and tons of make-up have to do with a child’s Halloween costume, you might ask? A lot if you’re a tween or teen who is pretending to be Olivia Rodrigo, Avril Lavigne, or a naughty French maid or naughty nurse.

Sadly, the sexualization of Halloween costumes for girls is occurring at younger and younger ages. Party City’s reputation, for example, was blemished a few years back when the mother of a toddler wrote an open letter to the company complaining that the company was purposely sexualizing toddler costumes in its marketing.

While it is normal for children to want to assert themselves differently as they mature out of childhood and into their teen years, publicly donning sexually suggestive or sexually oriented costumes for Halloween is inappropriate. Children, tweens, and teens will identify with different sorts of individuals in the media and pop culture at varying stages of development.

As parents, we would like some of those identifications. Still, we will probably not approve of all of them. Wanting to dress up like Taylor Swift as a girl is one thing, but wanting to dress up like a sexy Taylor Swift should be an essential teaching moment for parents.

As I often remind parents, it’s always essential to help our children make the best choices. Still, it’s also okay to allow our children to explore the different parts of themselves and their interests playfully, and Halloween is a great time to do that. So, Happy Halloween 2022 to all the monsters, superheroes, princesses, and pop stars out there!