our

Events

September 12: Caregiver Support Group

Join Us!

The September POAC in-person Caregiver Support Group will be on Saturday, September 12, 10AM-12PM at the George Mason Regional Library meeting room at 7001 Little River Turnpike, Annandale, VA 22003.

This is an informal time for family caregivers to chat and exchange ideas with an understanding community. Please no advertising of business services at this meeting. Unfortunately, we are unable to provide childcare at this time, and this time is only for family caregivers. Please RSVP to supportgroup@poac-nova.org if you plan to attend. RSVPs are helpful, but not required. Please DO come if your plans change and you want to attend at the last minute!

September 26: Annual Back-to-School Meeting with FCPS

Join us for our annual Back-to-School Meeting with FCPS special education leadership from the Department of Special Services.

Saturday, September 26, 10AM-12:30PM

West Springfield Government Center (or Zoom)

6140 Rolling Rd, West Springfield, VA 22152

This year, we are partnering with Fairfax County SEPTA to co-host a panel discussion regarding FCPS’s Inclusive Schools Initiative program.

Space is limited for in-person attendance, so please check back for registration details.

Click here if you are interested in participating in the panel discussion as a teacher, staff, or parent/caregiver.

Click here if you have questions or comments to submit prior to the meeting.

October 8: Free Webinar on Regulation and Connection

Regulation and Connection: A Neuroscience Approach to Understanding Emotions and Behaviors by Kathryn Hamlin-Pacheco, M.S., OTR/L, ASDCS

Thursday, October 8, 7:00-8:00PM

Check back for registration!

Regulation is a hot-topic in parenting, but for all of the
attention it gets, it is not well-understood. Spend an
hour with occupational therapist and regulation
specialist, Kathryn Hamlin-Pacheco, for an informed,
neuroscience-based discussion to not only deepens our
understanding of Autistic children, but to strengthen our support and connection.

November 12: Free Webinar in Arabic – Understanding Autism: Practical Strategies for Supporting Your Child at Home

Join Yalda Abnous, founder of Autism Planet and author of Autism Planet: Guidance of Love.

Check back for registration!

Content in Arabic will include:

Understanding Autism

What autism is and how it presents differently in every individual.
Understanding strengths, differences, and support needs.
Common myths and misconceptions about autism.

Practical Strategies Parents Can Use at Home

Creating predictable daily routines.
Encouraging communication in everyday situations.
Using positive reinforcement to support learning.
Understanding sensory needs and creating supportive environments.
Helping children navigate transitions.

Supporting the Whole Family

Caring for parental well-being.
Supporting siblings and family relationships.
Focusing on progress, resilience, and realistic expectations.

POAC-NoVA Waiver of Liability and Hold Harmless Agreement

Some of our events, such as open pool, require agreement to this waiver. It will be noted at the time of registration that you are agreeing to the waiver.