Bright Beats brings an engaging, inclusive music program to Dolley Madison Library! Families are invited to join us for monthly sessions featuring sing-alongs, rhythm activities, and instrument exploration. This program is designed for children of all abilities, including those with developmental needs. Siblings are welcome. 

January session: Saturday 4:00 -5:00pm January 24, 2026  

February session: Friday 5:00 - 6:00 pm February 27, 2026 

March session: Friday 5:00 - 6:00 pm March 27, 2026 

April session: Autism Acceptance Month - see special events below 

May session: Saturday 4:00 - 5:00 pm May 23, 2026 

Summer sessions: Friday 3:00 - 4:00 pm 07/10, 07/24, 08/07, 08/21

Family sign up here.
Volunteer sign up here.

Bright Beats offers a bi-weekly afterschool music program featuring sing-alongs, rhythm activities, movement, and instrument play at Franklin Sherman ES. In these Enhanced Autism Classrooms, we support children with diverse learning and communication needs while having lots of fun!

Session Time: 3:15 - 4:00pm Mondays
Session Dates: 

01/26,  02/09,  02/23,  03/09, 03/23, 04/13, 04/27, 05/11, 05/18, 06/01  

06/15  (year-end celebration and award ceremony)

Family sign up here.
Volunteer sign up here.

This year’s theme, “What Brings You Joy,” invites children and teens (ages 3 –17) with disabilities and/or special educational needs to express what brings them joy, connection, and inspiration through art. Our goal is to celebrate each child’s unique perspective and create an inclusive event that encourages creativity and self-expression.

🗓   Submission Window: March 1 – March 31, 2026
🔗 Judging Period: April 1 – April 30, 2026

🏆 Award Announcement: by May 31, 2026 - follow our Instagram for award announcements and featured young artists
🌐 Competition Details: https://www.brightbeats.org/news-and-events/art-competition

Participation is completely free, and every participant will receive a digital certificate and award badge. Selected artworks will receive additional recognition as Featured Artists.

In recognition of Mental Wellness Month, Bright Beats is conducting a Family Inclusion & Support Survey to better understand the experiences, challenges, and to support the needs of families raising children with special needs. Through collecting family voices, we hope to support future advocacy efforts focused on inclusion, mental wellbeing, accessibility, and community support.

The findings will help guide future Bright Beats initiatives, family resources, awareness campaigns, and inclusive community programs that promote connection, emotional well-being, and meaningful opportunities for children and families. The survey takes approximately 5 minutes to complete.

Bright Beats is excited to join the 2026 Special Education Family Conference as a community partner. Organized by Fairfax County Public Schools, the conference brings together families, educators, and community organizations under the theme “Stronger Together: Connecting Families & Schools.” 

Date: Saturday, April 18, 2026

Time: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Bright Beats will participate in the ASNV Autism Walk & Family Funfest as a community partner at this year’s resource fair. Hosted by the Autism Society of Northern Virginia, the event brings together families, community organizations, and supporters to celebrate inclusion and raise awareness for the autism community.

Date: Saturday, April 25, 2026

Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Bright Beats will participate in the 2026 Summer Extravaganza as a community partner and exhibitor. Hosted by Fairfax County Public Schools, this event brings together families and community organizations to connect and explore summer learning opportunities. Stop by to learn more about our inclusive music programs and enjoy interactive activities. 

Date: Saturday, June 6, 2026

Time: 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM