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Program for the Exceptionally Gifted @ Mary Baldwin University

By DullesMoms, Oct 2023

The Program for the Exceptionally Gifted (PEG) at Mary Baldwin University offers an immersive academic experience tailored for intellectually outstanding young girls, starting at 13!

Participants in the program, joining a vibrant peer group of like-minded learners, reside in a supervised, boarding-school-type environment, with the support provided by a team with expertise in gifted education. These girls embark on an educational journey that not only allows them to earn a four-year college degree but also provides a head start toward graduate school. Opportunities to work closely with professors, engage in special field trips and social events, and even study abroad showcase the enriching experiences available to PEG students at MBU.

Located in Staunton, VA, this residential program affords gifted young women a unique chance to pursue a four-year college degree while being immersed in an environment reminiscent of a boarding school. The PEG participants, ready and able to excel in college-level courses, collaborate closely with professors on intriguing and demanding projects.

The program ensures a supportive and safe environment, complete with a dedicated, all-female residence hall. A staff adept in exceptional education is at-the-ready to cater to both the educational and emotional needs of the students, ensuring they also enjoy the full MBU experience. This includes personal attention, leadership opportunities within the Student Government Association, participation in campus clubs, and engagement in athletics.

Fostering a community that values appreciation over competition, PEG encourages its students to fully embrace their identities. A carefully considered balance is struck that nourishes young minds while simultaneously challenging them to achieve excellence. Social bonding is also highlighted, with ample time for conversations, forming connections, and enjoying fun with fellow gifted students through various activities like spa nights, mixers, and themed events such as “Embrace Your Nerd Day.”

Moreover, PEG extends affordable college education opportunities, with merit awards of up to $21,000 per year, need-based aid, and additional opportunities to explore study abroad programs and attend conferences. Donor-funded scholarships are also available, ensuring further avenues for academic and experiential exploration for the students.

Details:
Website ∙ Facebook

Location:
Mary Baldwin University ∙ Staunton, 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.

Newsletter ∙ Oct 2, 2025

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Oct 2, 2025
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Weekend Fun: Fall Festivals

Free Children’s Books for Kids
Straight to your mailbox…
Did you know that children (from birth-5 yo) can receive a free book by mail monthly? All courtesy of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library! Get the details and start collecting beloved children’s titles today… MORE

The Big Halloween Guide
Trick-or-treating, parades, & more — all in one place…

Halloween Costume Exchange
On Friday, get ready to swap & save…
Halloween might not be on your radar yet, but it’s sure to be a topic your kids will bring up soon! On Friday, October 3, 2025, you’re invited to swap, save, and spook in style at Herndon’s children’s Halloween costume exchange… MORE

Heat Pumps 101: What Families Need to Know
By John C. Flood of VA
A heat pump can keep your family comfortable year-round, but installation is never a do-it-yourself project. John C. Flood explains why calling a pro protects your home, saves money in the long run, and ensures your family’s comfort through every season… MORE

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

Stack Up the LEGO Fun at Bricks & Minifigs’ Camps
From loose bricks to big LEGO builds — it all happens at Herndon’s Bricks & Minifigs! On school holidays, kids are invited to their day camps that combine LEGO engineering and robotics. Whether you choose half or full days, sessions are filled with learning, exploration, and more! Register today… MORE

The Best of Handmade: The Capital Art & Craft Festival
From October 10-12, 2025, explore one of the region’s largest handmade art and craft shopping events at the Capital Art & Craft Festival. Featuring more than 225 jury-selected artists, this event showcases high-quality works in a variety of media, including jewelry, pottery, wood, glass, leather, photography, painting, and more… MORE

Make Your Child’s Birthday a Monkey Joe’s Adventure
Have a birthday coming up? Bring your lil’ one to Monkey Joe’s for some high-energy fun! From their multi-level playground to their big inflatables, kids of all ages will have a blast. Plus, every celebration includes a party suite, unlimited playtime, paper products, a special gift for the birthday kiddo, and more… MORE

Free Online Learning for Parents All Year Long
From navigating school communication to preparing for key milestones, the LCPS FACE Family Academy’s free online workshops provide parents with the knowledge and skills to better support their child’s success. Upcoming opportunities include Building Strong School Partnerships (10/15), Helping Students Transition Through School Milestones (11/12), and more throughout the school year… MORE

Hands-On History & Fun at Douglass Legacy Day
Save the date for Douglass Legacy Day — a special community event featuring free entertainment, hands-on activities, and unique fun, including magic shows and live animal encounters. More than a celebration — it’s the chance to honor the history of Douglass High School… MORE

Get in the Game This Fall With i9 Sports
i9 Sports welcomes families to upcoming Indoor Soccer, Basketball, and Volleyball leagues as part of the late fall (begins Nov 1) and winter (begins Jan 10) seasons. Programs are beginner-friendly and focused on sportsmanship, serving athletes ages 3-14 across Fairfax and Loudoun. i9 is committed to Helping Kids Succeed in Life Through Sports, and all programs are weekend-only, with practices held right before the games. Choose your location and register today… Fairfax & Loudoun

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

Newsletter ∙ Sept 26, 2025

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Sept 26, 2025
Website ∙ Calendar
The Big Guide to Fall Festivals

The Big Halloween Guide
Trick-or-treating, parades, & more — all in one place…
Spooky season may still be a month away, but it’s already brewing across the DMV! With so many Halloween events already added to our big guide, now’s the perfect time to plan… MORE

Gabby’s Dollhouse Live!
Join Gabby & all her feline friends…
Gabby’s Dollhouse is coming to the DMV! Featuring beloved songs from the hit animated series, this professionally produced live show brings Gabby and her friends to life for an adventure that is sure to have kids singing and dancing along… MORE

Fall Fun at Messick’s Farm Market
Weekends bring all their festival favorites…
Fun is in full swing, slide, and bounce at Messick’s Farm Market’s annual Fall Festival! Weekends until October 26, 2025 (plus, Mon 10/13), this popular family-owned destination invites you to enjoy more than hayrides, corn maze adventures, and a zip line. You’ll find a petting zoo, a big bounce pillow, a pumpkin patch, and more! Get tix online for a discount (kids 3 & under are free)… MORE

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

The Leesburg Airshow Lands This Weekend!
Look skyward this weekend to witness exciting performances at Leesburg’s annual Airshow! On September 27, 2025, the skies will be filled with more than planes — see parachuters, a wing walker, and exciting aerial aerobatic teams! On the tarmac, enjoy antique and historical aviation displays, festival food, learning opportunities, and more… MORE

Book Now, Save $40, Party Later
Is your child’s birthday coming up? Then celebrate at Monkey Joe’s! More than just inflatables, they also boast a big multi-level indoor playground! Parties are packed with high-energy fun, plus savings too. Reserve a party by September 30 for any date left in 2025 for $40 off with code SEPT40… MORE

Keep the Swim Streak Going at Goldfish Swim School
As summer winds down, swim lessons at Goldfish Swim School help kids keep their skills fresh and their confidence growing! Their play-based programs blend fun, safety, and structured learning — all in a positive, safe space where kids can learn to swim and love the water. Click to learn more at your preferred location, including Reston, Alexandria, & Falls Church… MORE

From Page to Performance at SoHo Performing Arts
This fall, SoHo Performing Arts invites your kids to enjoy a season of creativity where they’ll bring characters to life in musicals like Mary Poppins, The Addams Family, Finding Nemo, and more! Classes blend acting, singing, and dancing, culminating in exciting, fully staged performances for family and friends… MORE

Find the Greatest Show at Loudoun Station
From now until September 28, 2025, families are invited to experience a show unlike any other at Loudoun Station! Venardos Circus offers kids and parents alike a Broadway-style performance filled with the sights and sounds of acrobats, comedians, aerial performers, and more… MORE

Free Online Learning for Parents All Year Long
From navigating school communication to preparing for key milestones, the LCPS FACE Family Academy’s free online workshops provide parents with the knowledge and skills to better support their child’s success. Upcoming opportunities include Building Strong School Partnerships (10/15), Helping Students Transition Through School Milestones (11/12), and more throughout the school year… MORE

BeanTree Learning: Where Care Meets Education
It’s time to find a preschool that not only invests in the quality and education of its students, but also in its team of educators. With their unwavering dedication to both, BeanTree Learning creates a secure, loving, and engaging environment for infants through preschool-aged children… MORE

Taco ‘Bout a Deal: $1 Kids’ Menu Saturdays
Are tacos your love language? Feel the love (& the savings!) 5-8 pm on Saturdays at all El Fresco Tex-Mex Grill locations! While you enjoy their made-from-scratch recipes, little ones 12 & under are invited to enjoy the children’s dine-in menu for just one dollar (not valid with other promos)… MORE

Weekend Fun Blooms at NatureFest
On September 28, 2025, families are invited to NatureFest — a hands-on, family-friendly event that brings the wonders of Runnymede Park to life. Located in the heart of Herndon, VA, discover the plants, animals, and insects that call the park home through interactive stations, games, and nature-themed activities… MORE

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

Newsletter ∙ Sept 19, 2025

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Sept 19, 2025
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The Big Guide to Fall Festivals

Big Top, Big Fun!
Venardos Circus is bringing its one-of-a-kind show to Loudoun Station…
Created by a former Ringling Bros. ringmaster, Venardos Circus’ animal-free production reimagines the American circus with Broadway flair, featuring daring aerial performances, trampoline stunts, comedy, and more… MORE

Stories Come Alive After School
Enrichment beyond the classroom…
ArtsMatter’s Afterschool Book Clubs bring reading to life with engaging activities led by a seasoned teaching artist. With 20 years of experience in both special education and mainstream settings, this program supports kids who need extra encouragement as well as those who crave more challenge. Each session weaves reading, writing, and social learning into a fun and supportive group environment that helps kids grow as readers and as friends… MORE

Up Where the Action Is!
The Leesburg Airshow returns next week…
Save-the-date — thrills take flight at the Leesburg Airshow on September 27, 2025! Enjoy breathtaking aerial performances, explore antique and historic aircraft up close, witness a radio-controlled jet demo, see a wing walker, and so much more at this annual family event… MORE

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

Start the School Year Strong with Goddard Savings
Save-the-date for September 19, 2025, when The Goddard School of Herndon hosts an evening Open House & Back-to-School Night! This special event is the perfect chance to explore classrooms, meet teachers, and discover Goddard’s early education programs — plus the opportunity to save on tuition with exclusive discounts designed to make starting the school year even brighter… MORE

Let Them Shine After the School Bell Rings
Lopez Studios Performing Arts Preparatory School invites young performers to discover their voice, gain confidence, and build self-esteem in a one-of-a-kind afterschool program just for K-6 students! From acting and music to homework help and character-building, it’s more than just aftercare — it’s a place for kids to grow in self-assurance, build friendships, and discover their talents, all in one convenient program… MORE

Jump for Joy: It’s National Gymnastics Day
Families are invited to flip, bounce, and tumble their way through an afternoon of fun at Gym America’s Open House on September 20, 2025! This special event, celebrating National Gymnastics Day, offers kids the chance to try out demo classes, explore the gym, and enjoy extras like moon bounces, arts & crafts, and more. Discover all that Gym America has to offer… MORE

International Fun Awaits — No Passport Needed!
This weekend, you’re invited to celebrate the vibrant cultures that make up Reston and Northern Virginia families like yours at Reston Community Center’s Multicultural Festival! On September 20, 2025, enjoy live performances, arts and culture, vendors, kids’ activities, and more, all at Reston Town Center. Admission is free… MORE

Find Hayrides & Hoorays at Messick’s
Messick’s Farm Market is bursting with country charm and fall-inspired fun! Save-the-date for their annual Fall Festival happening weekends from September 20-October 26, 2025 (plus Mon, 10/13). Enjoy farm animals, corn maze adventures, pumpkin patch, bouncing pillow, and much more — there’s plenty awaiting your family! Get your tickets online or at the door; kids 3 & under are free… MORE

Youth Sports Made Simple & Fun with i9 Sports
i9 Sports, the nation’s largest multi-sport provider, offers recreational leagues, camps, and clinics for young athletes of all skill levels in Fairfax & Loudoun. With no drafts and no tryouts, every child has the chance to play and grow. The focus is on fun, sportsmanship, and age-appropriate competition for boys and girls ages 3-14. Registration is available for late fall leagues (begins November 1) and winter leagues (begins January 10), featuring Indoor Soccer, Basketball, and Volleyball. Choose your location and register today… Fairfax & Loudoun

Opportunities to Champion Your Student’s Success
The LCPS FACE Family Academy offers parents free online workshops that support their child’s education. From exploring academic options to learning strategies that empower your child’s success, there are opportunities for all families. Upcoming sessions include Building Strong School Partnerships (10/15), Helping Students Transition Through School Milestones (11/12), and many more throughout the school year… MORE

So Much More Than a Classroom: Discover BeanTree
Where do your children spend most of their day? At BeanTree Learning, little ones move through various rooms, including Active Arts, the Pagoda Theatre, and the International Market & Cafe. Learning happens naturally under the guidance of loving educators, leaving your children in the best hands… MORE

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

Newsletter ∙ Sept 12, 2025

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Sept 12, 2025
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Find Spooky Fun at Air & Scare
Halloween fun at the Air & Space Museum’s Udvar-Hazy Center…
Save the date to reserve your free tickets to this crazy-popular family event! At Air & Scare, wear your Halloween best and enjoy candy, tricks, treats, and all the fun this local museum has to offer… MORE

Big Weekend Consignment Sale
Shop more, spend less at JBF…
From suddenly too small shoes to outgrown toys and gear, kids are always on to the next stage! Stay a step ahead at Just Between Friends Loudoun Consignment Event! From September 11-14, at Sterling’s Dulles Sportsplex, you’ll find gently-used clothing, accessories, and so much more at prices that stretch every budget… MORE

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

Save-the-Date & Save on Tuition at Goddard
Mark your calendar for Sept 19, 2025! At The Goddard School of Herndon’s evening Open House & Back-to-School Night, families are invited to explore classrooms, meet teachers (+ Goddard families), and learn more about all they have to offer infants, toddlers, and preschool-age children. Plus, there’ll even be exclusive tuition discounts… MORE

Save Big on a Monkey Joe’s Party
Is your child’s birthday coming up? Then celebrate at Monkey Joe’s! More than just inflatables, they also boast a big multi-level indoor playground! Parties are packed with high-energy fun, plus savings — reserve a party by Sept 30 for any date left in 2025 for \$40 off with code SEPT40… MORE

Step Right Up: The Circus Is in Town
Families are invited to experience the magic of Venardos Circus at Loudoun Station! This Broadway-style circus blends music, comedy, and jaw-dropping acrobatics under a brand-new Italian-made big top. With aerialists, juggling, and world-class performers from around the globe, this isn’t just a circus — it’s an unforgettable family adventure… MORE

One Last Adventure at the LoCo Cocoa Factory
Don’t miss your last chance to visit Escape LoCo’s special escape room: LoCo Cocoa Factory! This family fav gives kids a big confidence boost with hands-on puzzles, playful challenges, and a delicious chocolate-themed storyline. Designed especially for younger audiences, this interactive adventure is the perfect way to share laughs and teamwork before a brand-new room takes its place… MORE

Halloween Costume Exchange
Halloween might not be on your radar yet, but it’s sure to be a topic your kids will bring up soon! You’re invited to swap, save, and spook in style at Herndon’s children’s Halloween costume exchange! Get the details — it begins this month… MORE

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

Newsletter ∙ Sept 5, 2025

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Sept 5, 2025
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The Big Fall Guide
Fall in NOVA is packed with excitement!
From your favorite annual festivals to special events — start planning a family adventure today… MORE

Boo at the Zoo
Tickets are now on sale…
Did you know that furry, fanged, and winged creatures at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo love Halloween?! Celebrate with them at Boo at the Zoo… MORE

Airshows & Special Events
You’re cleared for fun & ready for take-off…
From awe-inspiring military flyovers to classic biplanes, these local and regional airshows bring sky-high thrills… MORE

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

A Creative Way to End the School Day
Lopez Studios Performing Arts Preparatory School’s After School Program is more than just a place to land after class — it’s a launchpad for confidence, creativity, and connection. Open to Kindergarten through 6th grade students, this unique opportunity brings together arts education and academic support in an environment that inspires every child to shine… MORE

They Grow Fast, You Save Big
Childhood flies by, and with every growth spurt and season comes the need for everything from clothing and shoes to toys, accessories, and gear. Find it all for your growing family at Just Between Friends Loudoun Consignment Event September 11-14, 2025, in Sterling, VA! Even better — it’s all inspected for safety and priced to make saving easy… MORE

Open House, Open Doors — Plus Savings at Goddard
The Goddard School of Herndon welcomes local families to their evening Open House & Back-to-School Night on September 19, 2025. From touring classrooms to connecting with teachers, it’s the perfect way to see how Goddard supports your child’s early education journey — and families who attend can take advantage of an exclusive enrollment discount… MORE

Score Big This Fall With i9 Sports
Kids and teens (3-14) are invited to a winning season this fall! From kickoffs to slam dunks, i9 Sports offers fall and late fall leagues and teams, including soccer, flag football, basketball, and more. No matter your young athletes’ experience, everyone plays at i9’s weekend-only practices/games. Choose your location and register today… Fairfax & Loudoun

Plan Now for a Safer School Year
It might still be summer, but with school on the horizon, fall schedules are filling up fast! Now’s the time to register for swim lessons at Goldfish Swim School. Their award-winning programs teach more than strokes — they instill confidence, build strength, and keep kids safer around water with every splash! Click to learn more at your preferred location (Reston, Alexandria, Falls Church)… MORE

Dinner, Deals, Deliciousness: El Fresco Has It All!
Nothing beats an evening of great food that the whole family will love! Find it at El Fresco Tex-Mex Grill! Even better? On Saturdays from 5-8 pm, little amigos 12 and under eat for just one dollar from the kids’ menu (dine-in only; not valid with other promos)! See the yum online… MORE

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

Mindfulness & Self-Care for Moms

By DullesMoms, Feb 2023

Being a mom is a never-ending balancing act. Between playdates, doctor’s appointments, and that pile of laundry that seems to multiply when you’re not looking, it’s easy to forget someone really important — you!

So, how can you practice mindfulness and self-care in the midst of parenting chaos? Small, realistic steps can make a huge difference.

Meditation Minutes
You may think you don’t have time for meditation. Still, according to Dr. Sara Lazar from Harvard Medical School, even a few minutes of mindfulness meditation can help improve focus and reduce stress.

Mom Hack
Use the time while your little one is napping or deeply engaged in play to sit comfortably, close your eyes, and focus on your breathing for just 5 minutes.


The Five Senses Exercise
Mindfulness involves being fully present in the moment. A quick way to do this is by engaging all your five senses. Take a moment to see, touch, hear, smell, and taste something. This method is recommended by Dr. Patrizia Collard, a stress management consultant and mindfulness teacher.

Mom Hack
Do this while having your morning coffee or during a walk in the park with your toddler. Notice the aroma, the cup’s warmth, the flavor, the sound of birds, and so on.


Move That Body
You know exercise is essential, but it’s also a form of self-care and mindfulness. As per the Mayo Clinic, exercise effectively combats stress and anxiety.

Mom Hack
If a gym session seems impossible, have a mini dance-off with your kids. It’s a win-win—you get to move, and they get to giggle.


Journaling Journey
Sometimes, the mind needs to ‘dump’ its thoughts somewhere. The University of Rochester Medical Center suggests journaling can help manage anxiety, reduce stress, and improve mood.

Mom Hack
Keep a journal near your bedside table. Before sleep, jot down three things that went well that day and why.


Creative Corner
Engaging in creative activities can serve as a fantastic mindfulness practice. Artistic expression allows the mind to focus and flow, says Dr. Cathy Malchiodi, an art therapist.

Mom Hack
Doodle while waiting at the pediatrician’s office, or engage in a fun DIY craft with your kiddos.


Digital Detox
Disconnect to reconnect. According to a study published in the Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology, limiting social media use can significantly decrease feelings of depression and loneliness.

Mom Hack
Set aside a specific ‘phone-free’ time each day to be fully present with your family—or yourself!

Self-care isn’t selfish, it’s self-preservation. Give yourself permission to take a timeout for mindfulness because a happy mom makes for a happy home.

Toddler Milestones Worth Celebrating

By DullesMoms, Feb 2023

Little ones grow faster than you can say “baby formula.” One day they’re tiny and helpless; the next, they’re walking, talking, and asking a million questions. It’s an incredible journey filled with milestones that are worth cherishing.

However, it’s easy to lose sight of these special moments amidst the chaos of diaper changes, meal times, and, well, just keeping your toddler from eating a crayon. In the midst of all the craziness, there are so many toddler milestones that are truly worth celebrating.

Grab your confetti, Mama, it’s time to party — well, not the adult kind of party, but a ‘Yay, my toddler did it!’ kind of party!

First Steps
The moment your child takes those first wobbly steps, it’s like they’ve crossed a new frontier. Walking opens up a world of exploration and is a key milestone mentioned by experts like the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) as an important developmental sign. And let’s be honest, it’s also the gateway to even more mischief and fun!

🎉 Celebration Tip
Create a “Walk of Fame” in your living room with colorful paper footprints to commemorate each step.


First Words
“Da-Da” or “Ma-Ma,” it doesn’t matter which comes first (well, maybe it does to some of us). The first word is an emotional moment that marks the beginning of a lifetime of conversations. According to the Mayo Clinic, most toddlers start speaking between 12 and 18 months.

🎉 Celebration Tip
Record that special word and make it into a mini video montage. Years later, it’ll be a treasured memento.


Potty Training Success
Ah, the double-edged sword of parenting — celebrating your child’s independence while simultaneously saying goodbye to those cute diapers. The AAP suggests that many kids show signs of readiness between 18 and 24 months.

🎉 Celebration Tip
Make a “Potty Progress” chart and let your toddler add a sticker every time they successfully use the potty.


Eating with Utensils
There’s something so adult-like about a toddler picking up a spoon and actually getting food into their mouth instead of painting the walls with it. This simple skill is an essential part of fine motor development.

🎉 Celebration Tip
Host a family dinner and let your toddler feel like a VIP by serving their favorite meal, which they can eat all by themselves.


Learning to Share
This might not seem like a huge deal, but learning to share is actually an early lesson in empathy and social interaction. Psychologists like Dr. Laura Markham emphasize the importance of teaching kids to share and take turns as a foundation for developing social skills.

🎉 Celebration Tip
Organize a mini playdate and encourage sharing toys. Celebrate each successful share with a cute “Sharing Star” badge.


Creative Expression
Whether it’s scribbling on paper or building a sandcastle, these milestones are significant indicators of your child’s cognitive and fine motor skills. According to Zero to Three, a national nonprofit organization, creative play is crucial for intellectual and emotional growth.

🎉 Celebration Tip
Create an “Art Gallery” on your fridge or a wall and display your toddler’s masterpieces.

Remember, each child is unique, and there’s a broad range of normal when it comes to hitting developmental milestones. So even if your child takes a little longer to reach a particular stage, it’s okay.

What matters is recognizing and celebrating these precious moments that you’ll treasure forever!

The Social Benefits of Early Childhood Education

By DullesMoms, Feb 2023

No matter their age, parents want their kids on a path to academic success. However, looking at the whole child, success is more than good marks. That’s why early childhood education is important — it grows so many aspects of young learners, including their social skills:

Making Friends: It’s a Big Deal!
Remember the thrill of meeting your first friend? Preschool is where social magic happens. According to an article by the National Association for the Education of Young Children, preschool environments provide unique opportunities for kids to make friends and learn how to sustain friendships through sharing, taking turns, and even settling squabbles over the toy du jour.

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work!
Those group activities like building a mega-block castle or painting a community mural? Yeah, those are preschool gold. Harvard’s Center on the Developing Child says that early education promotes skills in cooperating with peers, which comes in handy for virtually all future group projects, team sports, and, yep, adult work situations).

Say Hello to Emotional Intelligence
Understanding emotions is a biggie, and preschools are like mini emotional boot camps. The kiddos learn not just to identify their own feelings but also to understand others. Imagine your child comforting a friend who’s upset about losing a game—that’s emotional intelligence in action, folks! According to a study published in the Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology, children who attended preschool scored higher in emotional intelligence later in life.

Communication: More Than Just Words
You know how we adults often say, “I wish I’d learned to communicate better?” Well, guess what? Preschool helps kids express themselves not just through words but also through gestures, facial expressions, and even the art of persuasion (like trying to convince their BFF to trade snacks). A report by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association highlights how early childhood education is critical in language and communication development.

Resilience & Coping Skills
Life is not a bed of roses, as we all know. Preschool helps children develop coping skills like patience, problem-solving, and handling disappointment (like when they don’t get to be the line leader). A study from the University of Colorado Boulder suggests that these early lessons in resilience can contribute to long-term mental health.

Early education programs, including preschool and kindergarten, are great places for your child to grow socially and emotionally. In the grand scheme of things, those social skills might just be the real MVPs when it comes to lifelong happiness and success!

Newsletter ∙ Aug 29, 2025

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Aug 29, 2025
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Discover What’s Happening This Weekend
An extra days mean extra fun! Make the most of the long holiday weekend with family-friendly festivals, free outdoor concerts, special events, and more. There’s no shortage of ways to fill your calendar… MORE

Fall’s Biggest Events Are Here
A season of family fun awaits! Get ready to make some memories — fall festival season begins soon and is packed with big fun! From annual celebrations at your favorite farms, zoos, and more to weekend-long festivals — there’s no shortage of choices for families like yours… MORE

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

Labor Day Magic at PRCS Kids Fest
Your long holiday weekend just got better! On Labor Day, Monday, September 1, the PRCS Kids Fest returns with a lineup of entertainment, hands-on activities, and fun! From music and magic to inflatables, balloon twisters, and a petting zoo — your family is invited to wrap up summer with a big smile… MORE

Give Your Child a Strong Start at BeanTree
What does success look like to the teachers and staff at BeanTree Learning? It’s when each child who walks through their doors feels valued, treasured, and confident in their abilities to do all they can imagine! Get to know BeanTree today — schedule your personalized tour… MORE

Reading Enrichment Beyond the Classroom
Artsmatter’s Afterschool Book Clubs give kids the chance to explore reading and writing in a fresh, personalized way. Whether your child needs extra support or simply isn’t challenged enough at school, these clubs are tailored to meet them where they are. With expert guidance and a focus on building confidence, kids discover that books are more than homework. Register today… MORE

Hey Kids! Bounce Into Your Best Birthday Yet
Monkey Joe’s is your party headquarters! Watch your kiddo and all their friends make birthday memories as they bounce from one inflatable to another, climb a multi-level playground, and blow out their candles in a private party room! Book your celebration today… MORE

Songs & Stage Magic at SoHo Performing Arts
From beloved stories to unforgettable songs, SoHo Performing Arts invites kids and teens to join them for a season on the stage! At their popular Musical Theatre classes, kids and teens will dive into acting, singing, and dancing while preparing for full-scale productions like The Addams Family, Mary Poppins, Finding Nemo, and more… MORE

Find the Perfect Preschool Fit at Centreville Day School
We know you want the best for your children, and so does Centreville Day School! This non-profit, child-focused Christian preschool dedicates every day to the growth and development of its little learners ages 2.5-5. They would love to welcome your family this fall to their programs; learn more… MORE

Guac ‘N’ Roll This Weekend at El Fresco
Chippin’, dippin’, and sippin’ — it all happens at El Fresco Tex-Mex Grill! On Saturdays from 5-8 pm, enjoy made-from-scratch recipes, plus kids 12 and under get $1 dine-in meals from the children’s menu (not valid with other promos)! Explore their menu online… MORE

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