From Your Family Liaison: Kathryn Dunbar
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As you may remember, I work in Haycock's Cafeteria two days a week. This is my 5th year working with your students during lunch. Back on my soap box...I often notice children not eating lunch...usually it's because the child forgot their lunchbox or a busy parent didn't put lunch in. Sometimes though I have a student who says they aren't hungry or don't want to eat. I actually had a student recently tell me they weren't going to eat because they need to drop weight for their sport! Of course, the parents had no idea that was going on.
I would encourage you to have conversations with your student about what they eat during school hours so you are cognizant of their eating habits (as I have shared before, lots of lunch is thrown out if the child doesn't like what they have to eat). If you think there may be an issue, I encourage you to take note of the below free discussion group.
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Would you recognize early signs of an eating disorder or body image struggle in your child?
The Safe Community Coalition would like to invite you to their FREE monthly parent discussion group facilitated by licensed mental health professionals.
Location: McLean Community Center, 1234 Ingleside Ave, McLean, VA 22101
Date and time: Thu, Apr 16, 2026 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
- Data: Trends shows a significant surge in eating disorders in younger children since the Pandemic.
- Gender Differences (5-12 Years): While eating disorders are generally more common in females overall, in the 5-12 age range specifically, males are more frequently diagnosed with eating disorders in certain data samples.
- Warning Signs: Experts note that children as young as 6 start to show anxiety about their weight.
- Research: Research at the University of Virginia highlighted that eating disorder symptoms in youth rise due to emotional distress and increased social media time
- ARFID: Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is notably more common in younger children (5-12) than in teenagers.
Mental health professionals will provide education on the signs, symptoms, and risk factors associated with eating disorders, as well as the societal influences that shape body image.
Parents will learn why early identification and intervention are critical for children and teens, and how to recognize concerns before they escalate.The presentation will also share practical strategies and trusted resources to help foster a positive body image and support healthy eating habits at home.
Led by: Dr. Melissa Sporn and Mimi Weisberg, LCSW
Space is limited. RSVP now to save your spot at Community Mental Health!
All families raising children ages 6 months to 12 years who incorporate Judaism into their lives are eligible to receive FREE books & music monthly through PJ Library.
For more information or to register your child, visit PJ Library Information!
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Things to Do Spotlight!
The Earth Day Festival is back and at a new location! The 2026 event will take place on:
Saturday, April 25
10 a.m. to 4 p.m
Lake Fairfax Park
1400 Lake Fairfax Dr, Reston, VA 20190
Admission is FREE; Parking is $10 per car.
The day will be packed with barnyard buddies, hands-on nature exhibits, a rock-climbing wall, sports games, fitness demos and outdoorsy adventures like “land” kayaking and camping. Visitors can dig into animal talks, cool “dry ice bubble” chemistry and cool crafts. Branch out with birdwatching and geocaching, visit the Touch-A-Truck zone and a laid-back sensory tent to unwind.
For more information, visit: Earth Day Fest!
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National Library Week is an annual celebration highlighting the valuable role libraries and library professionals play in transforming lives and strengthening our communities. From books and author events to craft programs and storytimes, your family is invited to discover some of the amazing free ways you can FIND YOUR JOY with Fairfax County Public Library. To find activities near you, visit Find Your Library Joy!
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR FIELD DAY
A favorite memory of all children is their field day, and this year's field day is scheduled for Friday, May 29th (rain date: Friday, June 5th).
Ms. Hecht is seeking volunteers to lead stations at this year’s Field Day!
If you can take a few hours to volunteer, please complete this google form by Friday, May 8th at 9:00 a.m. You won't regret it!
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I am YOUR Family Liaison! Please reach out to me if I may be of any assistance to your family at: kdunbar@fcps.edu |
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