🏊‍♀️ ECPP Update: Expanding Our Therapy Services

We’re excited to share that ECPP has expanded both our aquatic and land-based physical therapy offerings! Our aquatic therapy program continues to grow through new partnerships with Loudoun County Parks pools, making it easier for families to access supportive, play-based movement therapy in the water.

We’ve also added land-based physical therapy to our services—creating new opportunities for children to build strength, coordination, and confidence through tailored, developmentally informed care.

✨ Interested in learning more? Contact us to hear about our aquatic therapy options and new locations!

Mental Health Matters: October Edition

October 10th is World Mental Health Day: a global reminder that mental health is just as important as physical health, for children and adults alike. This year’s theme encourages open conversations and early support, starting from the very beginning of life.

October is also ADHD Awareness Month, a time to recognize and celebrate neurodiversity in young children. Early signs of ADHD can look like curiosity, creativity, and big emotions. With understanding and support, those traits can become incredible strengths.

✨ Every child’s mind deserves care, compassion, and a chance to thrive — today and every day.

Staff Highlight: Meet Justin!

• What inspired his career:

  “As a new parent, my oldest child faced a number of challenges and delays. The experience of working through those challenges helped shape my view of early childhood and my ability as a parent. I enjoy the transformative experience of parenting and supporting caregivers along challenging journeys.”
  

• If he weren’t a therapist, he’d be:

  “In a media or tech role — though not something I’d rush back to!”

• How his culture and life experiences shape his work:

  “I reflect a lot on men’s role as parents in America in 2025. There are overwhelming social pressures from all sides and often conflicting messages. I try to bring curiosity to others’ experiences and encourage the same.”

• What he wishes more people understood about early intervention and play therapy:

  “Parents are — and will continue to be — the experts in their own children. The work we do is as much about supporting their capacity as it is about the child’s growth.”

• Favorite childhood game or toy:

  “I’ve always loved games — ever since getting an NES back in the late ’80s. The friendships I’ve built through gaming are some of the most important in my life.”

We’re so glad to have Justin as part of the ECPP team! Justin has new openings for family and play therapy at our Lansdowne office & leads our virtual support group for New Dads Navigating Fatherhood. Contact us to learn more and get connected!

🍂 Local Spotlight: Family-Friendly Fall Festivities

🔥 Story Stroll & Campfire at Claude Moore Park

Take a story-filled walk through the woods and stop along the trail to read, play, and explore! Afterward, cozy up around a campfire to roast marshmallows and unwind with the family. (Halal marshmallows available.)

• 📍 Address: Claude Moore Park (21544 Old Vestals Gap Rd., Sterling, VA 20164)

• 🕑 When: Sunday, October 13 | 12:00 PM – 1:15 PM

• 💲 Cost: FREE; pre-registration required (linked above)

👶 Busy Babies at Brambleton Library

Join other local parents and caregivers for a cozy morning of sensory play, movement, and connection! This interactive playtime helps little ones build fine and gross motor skills while giving grown-ups a chance to socialize.

• 📍 Address: Brambleton Library (43316 Hay Rd., Ashburn, VA 20147)

• 🕑 When: Sunday, October 20 | 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM

• 💲 Cost: FREE; no registration required

🧡 Sensory-Safe Spooktacular @ Karter Little Wins

This inclusive Halloween celebration is designed with sensory-friendly fun in mind! Families can enjoy games, toys, crafts, and snacks in a calm, supportive environment. Perfect for little ghouls and goblins who prefer a quieter celebration!

• 📍 Address: Karter Little Wins (43244 Hay Rd., Ashburn, VA 20147)

• 🕑 When: Friday, October 25 | 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM

• 💲 Cost: FREE; pre-registration required (linked above)