The Autism Society of Northern Virginia (ASNV) builds community for over 5,000 individuals and families affected by autism through education, advocacy, and support. As a chapter of the Autism Society of America, we support, empower, and build connections to improve the lives of all affected by autism. Find Resources Resources Autism Society of Northern Virginia is celebrating over 60 years of non-profit services, advocacy, and support to children, youth, and adults with Autism, their families, and the professionals who serve them. We are a local affiliate of the Autism Society of America, founded in 1965. About ASNV Creating a world where everyone in the Autism community is connected to the support they need, when they need it. UPCOMING MAIN EVENT Save the Date: April 25, 2026 Registration is now open for our annual Autism Walk & Family Funfest! Sponsorship and Volunteer Opportunities are Available! We have held this event for decades, don't miss out! Learn More By Clicking This Link. SPONSORS Your business logo could be here and help impact thousands of lives affected by Autism! Contact director@asnv.org to take advantage of this opportunity! About About ASNV What is Autism? Our Team Our Self-Advocacy Council Blog Ways to Help Our Special Events Autism Advocacy Day 2026 Become an Autism Advocate Past Events Programs Resources Military Support Notifications WORKPLACE GIVING You can support the Autism Society of Northern Virginia through workplace giving programs, including United Way and state employee campaigns such as the Commonwealth of Virginia Campaign. Many employers allow donations through payroll deduction, making it easy to give a small amount each paycheck that adds up to meaningful support for local families. When completing your workplace giving form, designate the Autism Society of Northern Virginia using the appropriate donor code to ensure your gift is directed to ASNV.

Our Team We would like to welcome our new Director to the ASNV Team! Madeline started with us in March of 2025. She comes with over 20 years of experience, with a background in mental & behavioral health, supported employment, and administration. She is excited to join the Autism Society of Northern Virginia and continue her commitment to serving the disability community! Director Madeline Sumner Board of Directors Vice Chair Rachel Payne, Ph.D Advocacy & Public Policy, Didlake Chair Andy Jacks, Ed.D School Principal, PWCS Secretary Sharon Cummings Zoom Autism Magazine Francis Bertulfo Nicci Dowd, Ed.D Marymount University Alan Margin Washington Speech Treasurer Immediate Past Chair Scott Campbell LTC US Army (Ret) Meghan Stubbs Autism Center of Excellence, Didlake Join Our Board Today We would love to speak with you about how your contributions can help further the mission and vision of Autism Society of Northern Virginia. Click, below! Fill Out Interest Form

Programs We offer a variety of programs for Autistic individuals of all ages and abilities. We recognize that everyone’s experience is unique, and we intentionally and creatively structure our programs to embrace the diverse needs and strengths of all individuals/participants. If you have questions or concerns about whether a program is right for you or your loved one, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at info@asnv.org . Parents, Guardians, & Caregivers Parent Support Group – Adults with Autism (Ages 18+) Parent Support Group – Adults with Autism (Ages 18+) is a supportive network for parents, guardians, and caregivers of adults on the autism spectrum. This group offers a safe and respectful space to connect with others who understand the evolving challenges and opportunities that come with supporting autistic adults. Meetings are currently held virtually via Zoom , allowing families from across Northern Virginia to participate with ease. Sessions provide both emotional support and practical guidance through facilitated discussions, shared experiences, and strategies related to adulthood, independence, services, and long-term planning. By connecting with other caregivers on similar journeys, participants gain insight, encouragement, and a strong sense of community. This group is intended for parents and caregivers of individuals on the autism spectrum ages 18 and older . Register Ages: Adults (parents, guardians, caregivers) Frequency: Once per Month Days/Times: Saturdays, 3:00 pm Location: Online (Zoom) Region: Northern Virginia Co-Host/Sponsor: We are seeking a sponsor for The Parent Support Group. Reach out to director@asnv.org if you are interested in supporting this program. Parent Support Group – Children Up to 18 (School Age) Parent Support Group – Children Birth to 18 (School Age) is a supportive network for parents, guardians, and caregivers of children on the autism spectrum. This group provides a safe and welcoming space to share experiences, ask questions, and connect with others who understand the joys and challenges of caregiving. Meetings are currently held virtually via Zoom , making it easy for families from across Northern Virginia to participate. Sessions are designed to offer both emotional support and practical guidance through facilitated discussions, shared resources, and real-world strategies. By connecting with other caregivers on similar journeys, participants gain insight, encouragement, and a strong sense of community. This group is intended for parents and caregivers of individuals with autism from birth through age 18 (school age). Ages: Adults (parents, guardians, caregivers) Frequency: Once per Month Days/Times: Thursday, 7:00 pm Location: Online (Zoom) Region: Northern Virginia Co-Host/Sponsor: We are seeking a sponsor for The Parent Support Group. Reach out to director@asnv.org if you are interested in supporting this program. Register Children, Teens, & Adults with Autism Ages: Adults 18+ Frequency: Twice per Month Days/Times: Saturdays, 3:00-5:00 pm (varies based on input from the group) Location: Online (Zoom), In Person Region: Arlington, Alexandria, Fairfax Area Co-Host/Sponsor: We are seeking a sponsor for The Autism Program Group. Reach out to director@asnv.org if you are interested in supporting this program. Register There is a nominal fee associated with this program. The Autism Program (TAP) Group The Autism Program (TAP) Group is a life- and social-skills support group for adults on the Autism Spectrum ages 18 and up . The group is created, led, and facilitated by adults on the spectrum, making it a peer-driven and affirming community. The TAP Group is Fairfax-based, but currently held online , allowing adults from across Northern Virginia to participate in an accessible and comfortable way. Members engage in discussions and activities that build life skills, strengthen social connections, and promote independence. When opportunities arise, TAP may also offer optional in-person gatherings, providing additional ways for members to connect based on individual comfort levels. The TAP Group supports a wide range of communication styles, preferences, and accessibility needs—fostering a community where adults feel understood, empowered, and connected . Register There is a nominal fee associated with this program. Autism Social Club Autism Social Club is a welcoming community designed to bring teens and young adults on the Autism Spectrum together for social connection and shared experiences. The club is Fredericksburg-based, but currently held online , allowing teens from across Northern Virginia to participate in a comfortable and accessible way. When opportunities arise, the club may also offer optional in-person gatherings, such as outings to local attractions like movie theaters or amusement parks. These experiences allow members to connect in ways that fit their individual comfort levels. The Autism Social Club also provides teen-specific outings in person to help build connections and experiences. Ages: Ages 14-21 Frequency: Once Per Month, First Saturday of Month Days/Times: Saturdays, 2:00-3:00 pm (varies based on input from the group) Location: Online (Zoom) Region: All Northern Virginia (online) Co-Host/Sponsor: We are seeking a sponsor for Autism Social Club. Reach out to director@asnv.org if you are interested in supporting this program. Bowling Club Register There is a fee associated with this program. Bowling Club is a monthly social program for Autistic teens that provides opportunities to connect, socialize, and have fun in a relaxed, supportive setting. The program is held in person at various local bowling alleys throughout Northern Virginia. Participants bowl with peers in their age group, with ASNV staff and volunteers on-site to provide support as needed. Bowling Club is designed to encourage social interaction while respecting individual comfort levels, communication styles, and support needs. This program offers a welcoming environment where teens and adults can build connections, enjoy shared experiences, and be part of the ASNV community. Ages: Ages 12-18, Middle & High School Frequency: Once Per Month Days/Times: TBD Location: TBD Region: TBD Co-Host/Sponsor: We are seeking a sponsor for the Bowling Club. Reach out to director@asnv.org if you are interested in supporting this program. Register There is a fee associated with this program. Inclusive Lego Club Inclusive LEGO® Club is a welcoming, hands-on program where elementary-age children can build, connect, and be themselves. This inclusive experience encourages creativity, collaboration, and social interaction through shared brick-building activities. Participants are invited to design, create, and explore at their own pace—whether working independently or alongside peers. The club provides a supportive environment that values different communication styles, interests, and comfort levels. ASNV staff and volunteers are present to help facilitate positive interactions and ensure that all participants feel supported. Inclusive LEGO® Club offers a fun, low-pressure way for children to build confidence, friendships, and a sense of belonging through play. Ages: Ages 5-11, Elementary Frequency: Once Per Month Days/Times: TBD Location: TBD Region: TBD Co-Host/Sponsor: We are seeking a sponsor for the Lego Club. Reach out to director@asnv.org if you are interested in supporting this program. YouToo Tennis YouToo Tennis is an inclusive tennis program for children on the Autism Spectrum, offered through a community partnership with The Potomac School. This program focuses on fun, movement, and connection—no prior tennis experience is required. Held twice a year in person (dates announced in advance) , YouToo Tennis brings together Potomac School students and ASNV participants for individualized tennis instruction, games, and shared activities. The emphasis is on learning basic skills, building confidence, and enjoying time together in a supportive, low-pressure environment. Sessions take place in person at the Potomac School tennis courts in McLean and are limited to 15 children per session to ensure personalized attention. YouToo Tennis also offers families a great opportunity to connect with one another while their children learn, play, and have fun. Ages: Teens Frequency: Twice per year Days/Times: TBD Location: TBD Region: TBD Co-Host/Sponsor: The Potomac School Register There is a fee associated with this program. Support Our Programs We continue to seek volunteers and business partners to further the opportunities for Autistic individuals and their families in Northern Virginia. Additionally, donations are always welcome to assist in the facilitating, purchasing of accommodations, outings, or refreshments for these programs. If you would like to support or create new programs, please reach out to info@asnv.org .

Military With nearly 130,000 active military families stationed in Virginia, and an unknown number of retired personnel, Virginia is the second largest active-duty population in the country. If you have a dependent that has special needs, you have many options and excellent resources available to make your tour here successful! INFORMATION OF INTEREST FOR OUR MILITARY FAMILIES Reach out to the Exceptional Family Member Programs ‘EFMP’ office near you at one of the following locations : Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Virginia EFMP Fort Belvoir, Virginia EFMP Marine Corp Base, Quantico, Virginia EFMP Naval Support Activity, Bethesda, Maryland & NSA-Washington EFMP Fort George G. Meade, Maryland EFMP Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, DC EFMP Langley Air Force Base, Virginia EFMP TIMELY TOPICS “Life Journey through Autism: A Guide for Military Families” This free guide includes information about services, resources, & support available to active-duty and retired military families. Organization for Autism Research website at https://operationautism.org State -versus-state comparisons for adults with a disability. Families should search many sources for information, such as local Autism Societies and Centers for Independent Living. All states have developmental disabilities organizations (like the Virginia DBHDS) where they can find information on the state’s waiver programs. Using several sources provides a better overall picture of states’ services. Also, services can differ significantly from locality to locality and county to county in some states. In addition, while some states provide better independent living services, they may be lacking in special education services and vice-versa. Please read: http://caseforinclusion.org . Special Needs Trusts Information The DOD Policy letter, dated 31 Dec 15 on "Enabling Payment of Survivor Benefit Plan Annuities to a Special Needs Trust (SNT)" and a copy of the "Template for Special Needs Trust Certification" have been uploaded. You will need to get it filled out by the attorney or agency who wrote the Special Needs Trust for your child. The Special Needs Trust Certification, a copy of the whole SNT, and a cover letter is mailed to Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS), U.S. Military Retired Pay, 8899 E 56th Street, Indianapolis IN 46249-1200. The letter must list their relationship to the beneficiary (the child), state their decision to make direct payment to an existing SNT, and include the beneficiary's SSN. Please call DFAS at 800 321-1080 for more information. More DFAS info on this option can also be found at https://www.dfas.mil/retiredmilitary/provide/sbp/special-needs-trust.html . If you need help or would like a copy of these documents, please reach out to info@asnv.org Military Families have a list of "what to do before and when their child turns 18". "Enabling Payment of Survivor Benefit Plan Annuities to a Special Needs Trust (SNT)" and a copy of the "Template for Special Needs Tr ust Certification" need to be filled out by the attorney or agency who writes the Special Needs Trust for your child. The Special Needs Trust Certification, a copy of the whole SNT, and a cover letter is mailed to Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS), U.S. Military Retired Pay, 8899 E 56th Street, Indianapolis IN 46249-1200. The letter must list their relationship to the beneficiary (the child), state their decision to make direct payment to an existing SNT, and include the beneficiary's SSN. If you have questions about where to send it or anything else, call DFAS at 800 321-1080. More DFAS info on this option can be found at https://www.dfas.mil/retiredmilitary/provide/sbp/special-needs-trust.html. If you need help or would like a copy of these documents, please reach out to info@asnv.org

Whether you choose to make an immediate impact with a gift today, amplify your investment with an employer-matched contribution, or make a lasting impact with a legacy gift, your donation will support education, awareness, and advocacy through Northern Virginia. Ways to Help Whether you choose to make an immediate impact with a gift today, amplify your investment with an employer-matched contribution, or make a lasting impact with a legacy gift, your donation will support education, awareness, and advocacy through Northern Virginia. All funds raised here, stay here! DONATE NOW Monthly Giving With our online donation portal, you can choose to have a gift - no matter what size - automatically charged every month. You'll get automatic receipts, and at the end of the year, ASNV will provide a summary to you for your records. Just click here to visit our online donation page and select the "monthly" option. GET STARTED Bequests, Trusts & Other Planned Giving We would be honored to be named in your will or be the recipient of a trust! Please contact our Executive Director at info@asnv.org to ensure that you have accurate, up to date information to include. Gifts of Stock, Real Estate, & Other Assets ASNV is able to accept most assets, including gifts of stock and more. Please contact info@asnv.org for more details. Give Together Nothing brings people together like feeling like they're making a real difference. Whether it's friends, family, school, or workplace, consider making your next donation a team effort! Ask for Donations at Your Celebration Every year, generous donors of all ages choose to make their birthday, holiday, wedding, or end of life celebration more meaningful by asking their friends and family for donations to ASNV. We can set up a special donation page for your event by emailing us . Host an Event Want to host a fundraiser at your school, workplace, church, or other organization? Or maybe you're already having a great event and just want some of the proceeds to go to a good cause. We'd love to help you set this up! Make a Match Want to double your impact? Commit to giving a match for every dollar other people donate! It's your decision how much to match and when to do it; email info@asnv.org for more information Give Smarter We know planning and financial management are important to you and your family! There are several ways you can fit giving into your financial planning. Volunteer Want to host a fundraiser at your school, workplace, church, or other organization? Or maybe you're already having a great event and just want some of the proceeds to go to a good cause. We'd love to help you set this up! Email info@asnv.org for more information.

ASNV Membership Become an ASNV Member Your membership directly aids ASNV and our mission to connect, advocate, and educate to improve the lives of all in our local Autism community. Every member receives great benefits such as: Discounts on ALL fee-based programming! Exclusive perks at local restaurants and businesses through our Membership Benefits Program . A subscription to our member-only quarterly e-newsletter to stay up-to-date on ASNV’s offerings, resources, and local autism community news. …and MORE! Sign up and learn about the unique benefits of each membership below. Membership Types & Benefits HOUSEHOLD for families $52 per year Members only annual events. Social and recreational programming, including our Preschool, Elementary, and Teen Social Groups, and recreational programs for all ages with our community partners. Discounted rates on fee-based programs, including respite nights, camps, and more. SELF-ADVOCATE for adults (18+) with Autism $12 per year Members only annual events, including our annual holiday party, pool party, summer celebration, pumpkin patch visit, Trunk or Treat, and more. Social and recreational programming, for adults with our community partners. Discounted rates on fee-based programs, such as our annual adult campout. Additional opportunities just for self-advocates. ALLIES OF AUTISM for professionals $25 per year Networking events and professional development opportunities designed for Autism-related service providers. Discounted rates for ASNV Walk registration, for you and up to 4 additional family members. Allies of Autism ASNV-branded license plate frame. Membership Program Sign-Ups Coming Soon... Questions? Not sure which membership best meets your needs? ASNV staff are happy to answer any questions you may have! Reach out to us at info@ansv.org or 703-537-9487. Please note this is a voicemail line only, and our staff will do our best to respond within 48 business hours. Membership Scholarships Scholarships are available for households, self-advocates, and professionals! Learn more and apply for a membership scholarship below.

Your Story Matters! We strive to unify the voice of the autism Community. For over 50 years, the Autism Society of Northern Virginia has led the way, advocating at the local, state, and national levels in collaboration efforts to improve the quality of life for all in the disability community. We provide free education programs and many forms of support for those on the spectrum to enjoy a lifetime of dignity and respect while making meaningful connections within our community and beyond. Know our 2024 State Legislative Priorities We are dedicated to educating policy makers on current priorities that impact our local autism community. We are proud to represent a very diverse community of individuals across the entire autism spectrum and their families, and we strive to empower individuals with autism and their families to advocate for the best possible services and support structures for themselves and/or their loved ones. ASNV partners with several fellow advocacy organizations across Virginia, including the Arc of Northern Virginia, the Arc of Virginia, Virginia Autism Project (VAP), Commonwealth Autism Services, Didlake, Autism Societies of Central & Tidewater, and many others. We strive to unify the voice of the autism community and integrate legislation in a coordinated manner. What an incredible and historic year! After 25 years of advocacy from this amazing community (all of you) funding for Priority One has become a Reality. While we know there are thousands of people in priorities two and three—this first step of getting services now for 3440 people is our only way forward to building a functioning system that can meet the needs of our entire community. A big “thank you” to our Governor who put this in his budget, to the House and Senate that kept it in the budget, to the Legislators who made this happen and to all the advocates with their numerous trips to Richmond, emails and calls. This only happened because all of you stood up, showed up and made your voices heard. As we look forward, we know we aren’t done, but right now, we will celebrate together and take pride in a job well done. 2024 Legislative Priorities General: Advocate for increased access to high-quality services for adults with autism, including caregivers, housing, day support, employment support, case management, Criminal Justice System education and protection, and more. Developmental Disability (DD) Medicaid Waiver Services Eliminate the Priority 1 Waiting List: Fund the 3440 slots in the Governor’s introduced Budget. PASSED Increase provider capacity to meet the demand for services: Fund a series initiative that will build the capacity of providers to serve existing and newly funded DD Waiver Slots. Advocate for increased access to high-quality services for adults with autism, including caregivers, housing, day support, employment support, case management, and more. Ensure all Virginia children diagnosed with autism have access to a quality education in the appropriate setting with the support services they need. SSDI Income Disregard to Protect Waiver Service Eligibility: Current monthly income cannot exceed $2,829/mo to remain on Medicaid & access the Waiver. This disincentives people from working, especially if they are receiving SSI &/or SSDI Benefits. Disregard Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) income when calculating and individual’s financial eligibility for a waiver. PASSED Additional Priorities: Re-establish Virginia’s Autism Advisory Council to promote coordination of services among agencies involved in the delivery of services to Virginians with autism and to increase public awareness of such services. PASSED Allow curbside voting for all people with disabilities who need this accommodation. PASSED Ensure the ability to attend government meetings, vote, & count towards quorum for people with disabilities and family caregivers. PASSED Establish autism related training requirements for law enforcement officers to enhance interactions and mitigate misunderstandings. PASSED Retention of Waiver Slots- In response to the ongoing provider shortage, allow individuals struggling to find services to retain their waiver slot for up to one year. PASSED Legally Responsible Individuals- Protects families by ensuring the regulations regarding their ability to provide care for their children is reasonable & appropriate. PASSED State Politics: This year’s General Assembly Session adjourned on March 9, 2024, having passed over 2,200 bills. Many of the bills that will impact our community are still awaiting final approval from the Governor, who must sign, veto, or amend them by April 8th. April 17th Legislation reconvenes to handle vetoes or amendments. Subscribe to our email list Stay informed of ASNV news, events, and programs by subscribing to our email list below! ASNV sends out newsletters on a monthly basis, and occasionally sends other important monthly updates. Subscribers should only receive an average of 2 emails per month. Subscribing to the ASNV email list guarantees that you will be the first to hear about and sign up for our upcoming ASNV programs and events! Email Address Subscribe to our email list SUBSCRIBE

Support Groups ASNV manages several different groups, programs, and events, listed below. Donations are always welcome to assist in the facilitating, purchasing of accommodations, outings, or refreshments for these programs. Parents & Caretakers Support Parent/Caregiver Group is a supportive network specifically tailored for parents and caregivers of individuals with autism. This group serves as a vital resource by providing a space for sharing experiences, receiving support, and accessing information essential for navigating the challenges and opportunities of caregiving. Meetings are designed to offer both educational and emotional support through discussions, and the sharing of practical strategies. By connecting with others who understand the unique journey of caring for someone with autism, members gain not only insight and advice but also a sense of community and solidarity. Meetings held same date and time as the TAP meetings. This allows you to drive your adult to the meeting and take advantage of this separate meeting. Email director@asnv.org to register or for more information. Bowling Night Bowling Night is a fun way to get everyone out of the house for a fun time! More information coming soon... We are adding new locations to accommodate all of our families throughout our Northern Virginia territory. Email info@asnv.org to register or for more information. Lego Night Lego Night is an interactive time for everyone to have fun and be creative! More information coming soon... We are adding new locations to accommodate all of our families throughout our Northern Virginia territory. Email info@asnv.org to register or for more information.

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)? Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) , hereafter referred to as Autism (which includes Asperger’s Disorder and Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified [PDD-NOS]), is a complex, lifelong developmental condition that typically appears during early childhood and can impact a person’s social skills, communication, relationships, and self-regulation. Autism is prevalent across the world , although tracking rates can vary due to differences in reporting. In 2023, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated the Prevalence Data & Statistics for Autism . The report concluded: The prevalence of Autism had risen to 1 in every 31 – more than three times as great as the 2004 rate of 1 in 125. Children who receive an Autism diagnosis by age 4, are fifty times more likely to receive services. More White and Black children were identified with Autism than Hispanic children. Stigma, lack of access to healthcare services due to non-citizenship or low income, and non-English primary language are potential barriers to the early identification of Hispanic children and children of color with Autism. Boys are approximately 4 times more likely to have an Autism diagnosis than girls of the same age. However, recent research suggests that girls may not display characteristics of Autism in the same way as boys and might go undiagnosed because of their different presentation. For additional facts & statistics about autism, visit the "Understanding Autism" webpage on the Autism Society of America website, or the Autism Center for Education at Virginia Commonwealth University. The Autism experience is different for everyone. It is defined by a certain set of behaviors and is often referred to as a “spectrum disorder” that affects people differently and to varying degrees. While there is currently no single cause for Autism, early diagnosis helps a person receive resources that can support the choices and opportunities to live fully. Screening and Diagnosis Autism is characterized in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5) , which is used by clinicians to diagnose Autism. Some examples can include: Persistent differences in communication, interpersonal relationships, and social interaction across different environments. What this can look like : Being nonverbal, nonspeaking, or having atypical speech patterns, having trouble understanding nonverbal communication, difficulty making and keeping friends, difficulty maintaining typical back-and-forth conversational style. Restricted and repetitive behavior, patterns, activities and interests . What this can look like : Repeating sounds or phrases (echolalia), repetitive movements, preference for sameness and difficulty with transition or routine, rigid or highly restricted and intense interests, extreme sensitivity to, or significantly lower sensitivity to, sensory stimuli. Signs and Characteristics Autism impacts an individual throughout the lifespan. However, research shows that early diagnosis can lead to improved quality of life. The behaviors of Autism may be apparent in infancy, but they usually become clearer during early childhood. As part of a regular health visit, your child’s doctor should perform developmental screenings focused on Autism. This screening is recommended at ages 18 and 24 months for all children. Your doctor will encourage you to ask specific questions about your child’s developmental progress. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Milestones Checklist can be used as a guide to track your child’s development from 2 months to 5 years. Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) developed a list of Signs and Symptoms, which can be found here . Social & Communication Interaction Restricted or Repetitive Behaviors/Interests Other Characteristics Social communication and interaction skills can be challenging for people with ASD. Characteristics can include: Avoids or does not keep eye contact Does not respond to name by 9 months of age Does not show facial expressions such as happy, sad, angry, and surprised by 9 months of age Does not play simple interactive games like pat-a-cake by 12 months of age Uses few or no gestures by 12 months of age (for example, does not wave goodbye) Does not share interests with others by 15 months of age (for example, shows you an object that they like) Does not point to show you something interesting by 18 months of age Does not notice when others are hurt or upset by 24 months (2 years) of age Does not notice other children and join them in play by 36 months (3 years) of age Does not pretend to be something else, like a teacher or superhero, during play by 48 months (4 years) of age Does not sing, dance, or act for you by 60 months (5 years) of age Contact your child’s doctor if you have any concerns about your child’s development. *From the CDC Website People with ASD have behaviors of interests that can seem unusual. These behaviors or interests set ASD apart from conditions defined by problems with social communication and interaction only. Examples of restricted or repetitive behaviors and interests related to ASD can include: Lines up toys or other objects and gets upset when order is changed Repeats words or phrases over and over (called echolalia) Plays with toys the same way every time Is focused on parts of objects (for example, wheels) Gets upset by minor changes Has obsessive interests Must follow certain routines Flaps hands, rocks body, or spins self in circles Has unusual reactions to the way things sound, smell, taste, look, or feel Contact your child’s doctor if you have any concerns about your child’s development. *Information from the CDC Most people with ASD have other related characteristics. These might include: Delayed language skills Delayed movement skills Delayed cognitive or learning skills Hyperactive, impulsive, and/or inattentive behavior Epilepsy or seizure disorder Unusual eating and sleeping habits Gastrointestinal issues (for example, constipation) Unusual mood or emotional reactions Anxiety, stress, or excessive worry Lack of fear or more fear than expected It is important to note that children with ASD may not have all or any of the behaviors listed as examples here. Contact your child’s doctor if you have any concerns about your child’s development. *From the CDC Website The ASNV is here to support you. Our Resource Directory connects individuals and families with local providers and resources tailored to their needs, featuring recommendations from those who have used these services. Our Information and Referral Program can help by educating you about resources that may be available and how service systems operate. We can assist with navigating various issues, and how to effectively obtaining needed services. Complete this online request form or give us a call at (703) 537-9487. Information Request Form

Programs ASNV manages several different groups, programs, and events, listed below. Donations are always welcome to assist in the facilitating, purchasing of accommodations, outings, or refreshments for these programs. The Autism Program (TAP) Group Grupo Hispano (Spanish Group) The TAP Group is a life and social-skills support group made up of and run by adults on the spectrum ages 18+ and up. La Sociedad de Autismo del Norte de Virginia puede proporcionar recursos en español. Parents & Caretakers Support Parent/Caregiver Group is a supportive network specifically tailored for parents and caregivers of individuals with autism. Parents & Caretakers Support Parent/Caregiver Group is a supportive network specifically tailored for parents and caregivers of individuals with autism. ... Teen Time Teen Time is designed to foster friendships and shared experiences among teenagers 14-18 with autism. Bowling Night Bowling Night is a great way to get everyone out of the house for a fun time! Autism Social Club Lego Night Autism Social Club is a virtual community designed to bring together individuals on the autism spectrum for regular social interactions and shared experiences. Lego Night is an interactive time for everyone to have fun and be creative!

Autism Advocay Day 2026 Join us as we walk the hallways of the Virginia General Assembly and meet with legislators and staff members to advocate for our local autism community. Each year, our advocates – Autistic self-advocates, parents and caregivers of Autistic children, medical professionals and more – share their powerful, personal experiences with Autism and information on several critical pieces of legislation that have the potential to improve the lives of countless Autistic individuals in Virginia. Register today! Register What You Need To Know Schedule 8:00 AM – Arrive at the general assembly building; be sure to leave ample time for parking, walking & going through security. 8:15 AM – Our room (7th floor House North Meeting Room ) opens for gathering & picking up materials. 9:00 – 11:00 AM – Appointments with Legislators (or their staff members) in small groups. 11:15 AM – Meet in the Capitol Rotunda for a group photo (walk through the tunnel from the GA building to get to the Capitol). Parking The Virginia General Assembly Building is located 201 N 9th St, Richmond, VA 23219 (at 9th & Broad). If you are providing your own transportation, then you can find information about parking here . It will be a BUSY day at the General Assembly, so we encourage you to take Uber or Lyft, and allow for extra time for traffic and security (and dress appropriately for the weather!). What to Wear/Bring Please wear comfortable, business casual attire; keep in mind you might have to wait in the security line outside on your way in, so you may want to bundle up if it’s cold out. Prepare to carry everything you bring with you throughout the day; we cannot guarantee a place to store items like coats & purses. Please review what is allowed or restricted to bring with you in the building here. We will provide branded name tags and stickers, and we encourage you to wear any extra flair you’d like. We will have handouts and materials, but please write up and bring your personal story (keep this to 1 page), a business card, additional fliers, etc.

Resources The Autism Society of Northern Virginia offers several valuable resources including an online resource directory, resources for military families, and information and referral services to anyone seeking resources on autism services and supports. Resource Directory Families and individuals can connect to trusted community partners, local providers, and other resources for your individual needs. Click here to view the directory. Military Support If you are a military family and have a dependent with Autism Spectrum Disorder, we are here to help! Email us to learn more. Information & Referrals Need additional assistance? Contact us via email or call (703) 537-9487 to connect with our staff.