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
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.
October 10: Caregiver Support Group
Join Us!
The October POAC in-person Caregiver Support Group will be on Saturday, October 10, 10AM-12PM at Lorton Library, 9520 Richmond Hwy, Lorton, VA 22079.
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!
October 15: Transition to Employment VOICE Listening Session
Have your voice heard!
POAC-NoVA members are invited to attend a virtual listening session on Thursday, October 15, 7:00–8:30 PM, hosted by the ENDependence Center of Northern Virginia (ECNV).
Join us to provide your feedback on how the high school pre-employment and post-high school transition to employment have been going for your family. Please see below and attached for more details.
REGISTER HERE to receive the Zoom link.
November 7: Caregiver Support Group
Join Us!
The November POAC in-person Caregiver Support Group will be on Saturday, November 7, 10AM-12PM at Burke Centre Library, 5935 Freds Oak Rd, Burke, VA 22015.
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!
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.
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.
December 6: Annual Holiday Party with ASNV
New location this year!
Sunday, December 6, 2-5PM
Green Acres Community Center
4401 Sideburn Road, Fairfax, VA 22030
Santa, crafts, snacks, and more!
Check back in November for registration!
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.
Past Events
