SPecially Adapted Resource Centers - SPARC

Home
United States
Tysons Corner, VA
SPecially Adapted Resource Centers - SPARC

SPARC is a therapeutic recreational day program serving adults in Northern Virginia with multiple and severe disabilities and their families.

For more info head to www.sparcsolutions.org.

01/14/2026

Today at SPARC ~ Alexandria, participants jumped into a day full of creativity, collaboration, and sensory exploration! We continued working on our DIY life-size Pokémon Monopoly board, filling it with amazing hand-drawn illustrations while also building problem-solving and technology skills by printing custom miniatures on our 3D printer.

The group then gathered for a calming sensory activity, exploring different scents as we worked together to create an orange-scented simmer pot that filled the room with a warm, welcoming aroma.

In art therapy with Nicky, participants began designing their very own fashion line—brainstorming bold ideas and planning to create 3–5 clothing pieces from scratch. We’re excited to soon visit the thrift store to gather materials and bring our designs to life, culminating in a showcase of our brand-new SPARC fashion line. Today was a wonderful mix of self-expression, skill-building, and community connection.

Participant Quote of the Day:

“I’ve been really sad and it’s been hard to get out of bed, but I’m so glad that I came to SPARC today because it’s made me smile and it made me happy.”

01/13/2026

It was truly a Pizza Party at SPARC~ Arlington today! Participants rolled up their sleeves for an all-day, hands-on adventure, making their very own pizzas completely from scratch. Using our adaptive cooking tools including Cut Safe knives, a hand-crank cheese grater, and our fan-favorite Jellybean button power switch meaning everyone had a role in bringing this delicious masterpiece to life.

We kicked things off with our incredible cheese masters; Ryan, Jack, Sandy, and Victoria, who expertly cut and shredded creamy mozzarella to perfection. Meanwhile, Hazem and Ellen mixed and blended the sauce and seasonings to create the most mouthwatering base, while Mo carefully portioned and spread it evenly across the crust. Teamwork never tasted so good!

Throughout the pizza-making process, participants proudly showed off the culinary skills they’ve been building over the past six months. From keeping a close eye on time and temperature management, practicing food safety by using clean surfaces, tools, and gloves, sequencing steps by following recipes and directions, to demonstrating excellent collaboration, turn-taking, and teamwork. This group truly did it all to ensure pizza perfection.

01/13/2026

❤️ Valentine’s Day Preparation at SPARC ~ Leesburg ❤️

Today was filled with creativity, movement, and connection as participants rotated through three activity stations designed to support choice-making, communication, and teamwork. From three-heart artwork to acrylic self-portraits, many chose to return to projects they love—building confidence and pride along the way. We danced, we laughed, and we took movement breaks to stay regulated and engaged.

Kim beamed as she finished her bouquet of hearts, saying, “I can’t wait to hang it up in my room!” 💕 Maghfoor’s positive energy continues to shine, helping Ryland feel welcomed and supported as he settles into our SPARC ~ Leesburg community.

After lunch, the group came together to plan something special: next up, we’ll be making small heart-shaped pillows to donate to the Leesburg children’s hospital—sharing love and kindness beyond our walls this Valentine’s Day.

💝 It got us thinking… on Valentine’s Day, how do you like to show love by giving to others? 💝

01/12/2026

What do you think of the glitter germs experiment?

01/12/2026

A full day of growth and connection at SPARC ~ Leesburg

Today, participants kicked things off by planting basil, mint, and lettuce in our AeroGarden—an activity made possible by Leesburg’s accessible, secure space, reminding us how the right environment opens the door to meaningful participation.

We were grateful to our partners at A Place To Be for leading a music-based program focused on words of affirmation, self-expression, and confidence. Lunch brought teamwork and life skills as Maghfoor helped prepare spaghetti Alfredo, and the day was made even more special by welcoming back friends from our Sterling and Vienna locations.

We wrapped up with painted mugs, tea, and friendly games—simple moments that build creativity, connection, and belonging.

What does “being happy” and fully included look like in your community?

01/12/2026

🧼✨ Glitter germs, real learning! ✨🧼

Today at SPARC~McLean, The Choice Is Yours came to life during our favorite hands-on moment: the soap experiment. We watched “glitter germs” spread everywhere—then scatter away the instant soap hit the plate. Cue the “whoa!” moment. 💥

It was a simple, powerful way to see how soap works (hello, hydrophobic reaction!) and why small choices—washing hands, covering coughs, staying home when sick—make a big difference for ourselves and our community.

So here’s the question we ended the day with: When it comes to staying healthy, what choice will you make today? 🧠💧

01/10/2026

When design is inclusive, learning takes flight.

Today our participants explored the Steven F Udvar-Hazy Air & Space Museum in Herndon, immersing themselves in the history and innovation of American aviation through hands-on, interactive exhibits. What made the experience truly powerful wasn’t just what we learned—but how we were able to learn it.

The museum’s thoughtfully designed space made it easy for everyone to move comfortably, navigate independently, and engage fully. Wide, open pathways, accessible exhibit layouts, and clear sightlines meant our focus stayed where it belonged: on curiosity, discovery, and shared awe—not on barriers.

As Anee shared afterward,

“I was very comfortable navigating the museum.”

That comfort matters. It builds confidence, sparks conversation, and allows people to participate on equal footing.

After our visit, we gathered for lunch at Piero’s Corner, where welcoming staff ensured our group could sit together and enjoy great food and connection—another reminder that accessibility in everyday community spaces shapes how included people feel.

Today reinforced something we see again and again: access isn’t extra—it’s essential. When community spaces are designed for everyone, they become places of learning, dignity, independence, and joy.

01/09/2026

Today was an electric way to wrap up our first week back at SPARC~ McLean for the new year! We kicked off the day by creating our group expectations for 2026. Establishing these expectations helps foster understanding, respect, cooperation, kindness, and fun—while ensuring that everyone feels safe, supported, and happy.

We rounded out our week of resolutions by creating or finishing our vision boards, highlighting our top goals for the year. Having a visual representation of what we hope to achieve gives us something to refer back to when we need extra motivation to tackle a difficult task or when we want to track our progress throughout the year.

Our afternoon movement break had everyone on their feet and feeling the electric beat as we danced the Electric Slide. “That was so FUN!” Ellen excitedly yelled across the room when the song ended.

Throughout the afternoon, participants engaged in a variety of static electricity–themed activities, observing how opposite charges attract and repel while learning basic principles of static electricity. Smiles filled the room as we made paper levitate onto balloons and watched Nicky’s hair stand straight up! Like all experiments, there were moments of trial and error, but in the end, we clearly saw how static energy can truly put a SPARC in our day.

01/08/2026

Today at SPARC ~ Alexandria, participants enjoyed a dynamic and creative program that balanced hands-on projects with exciting new opportunities. We began the day continuing work on our DIY giant Monopoly board, which has been coming together with hand-drawn details and 3D-printed miniatures. Katherine and Annabel added a beautiful logo to the center of the board, bringing the project one step closer to completion. We also spent time using our 3D printer to create a collapsible reaching stick for Katherine, building on the skills we’ve been developing with 3D printing at our location. After finishing our work on the Monopoly board, we jumped right into setting up and using our new podcast equipment to officially launch the SPARC Podcast. Hosted by Kat, the episode focused on New Year’s resolutions and featured guests Katherine, Annabel, and Adam, who introduced themselves and shared their goals and plans for the year. The conversation flowed naturally and was filled with humor and genuine moments. We ended the day discussing creative ideas and topics for future podcast episodes, leaving everyone excited about what’s to come in the weeks and months ahead.

01/08/2026

Today at SPARC ~ Arlington, we celebrated National Braille Literacy Month. We began the day with our Question of the Day: “What is something that has made you smile this week?” Christiana shared that spending time with friends at SPARC brought her joy, encouraging positive reflection and social connection among participants.

We then transitioned into our featured activity, where participants created personalized name art using Braille letters. This activity supported fine motor skills, creativity, letter recognition, and Braille literacy while allowing participants to express themselves.

Throughout the morning, participants also engaged in inclusive gameplay by playing UNO using both giant-sized cards and Braille UNO cards. This activity promoted turn-taking, problem-solving, social interaction, and accessibility awareness.

After lunch, participants continued playing UNO, while others demonstrated strong self-advocacy skills by requesting to watch The Little Mermaid. This choice-based activity supported communication skills, independence, and respectful decision-making, contributing to a well-rounded and engaging celebration of Braille Literacy Month.

01/08/2026

Today, SPARC ~ Leesburg had a wonderful day with a strong focus on choice-making and self-advocacy. Through Art Therapy, participants were encouraged to express their preferences, select activities, and choose between different stations. This intentional approach supported independence, decision-making, and confidence in communicating wants and needs.

Building on this theme, our partner A Place To Be reinforced choice-making by leading a music-based activity where participants selected music themes that reflected their interests. Together, we also created a song, giving everyone the opportunity to contribute ideas and advocate for their creative choices.

During lunch, participants practiced real-world decision-making by choosing and creating their own mocktails using ginger ale, cream soda, strawberry soda, grape soda, and lemonade. This activity promoted autonomy, communication, and self-expression in a fun and social setting.

After lunch, participants continued to practice self-advocacy through structured games, including a spirited round of Kings-in-the-Corner and our SPARC ping-pong game. These activities encouraged participants to make choices, take turns, communicate preferences, and advocate for themselves within a group environment.

01/08/2026

Financial Wellness Month at SPARC ~ McLean

We kicked off the day by sharing what we’re most excited about this year—and when Tom said he’s looking forward to saving money, it sparked a great conversation about financial wellness! Lizz dropped the quote of the day: “Just because it’s cute doesn’t mean you need it.” (A reminder we could all use!)

From there, participants dove into hands-on learning with games like Monopoly, Sorry!, and UNO, practicing budgeting, planning, and decision-making—while having a lot of fun. We also tackled a Wants vs. Needs activity to sort essentials from extras and reflect on smart spending habits (even the not-so-great ones—we’ve all been there!).

The day wrapped with vision boards and realistic weekly plans for the new year. Kyle shared a thoughtful goal: walking at least 15 minutes every day to build a healthier routine—small steps, big impact.

What’s one financial habit or wellness goal you’re working on this year?

Address

1775 Tysons Boulevard Fifth Floor
Tysons Corner, VA
22102

Website

http://www.sparcsolutions.org/

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when SPecially Adapted Resource Centers - SPARC posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Practice

Send a message to SPecially Adapted Resource Centers - SPARC:

Shortcuts

Want your practice to be the top-listed Clinic in Tysons Corner?

SPecially Adapted Resource Centers - SPARC

01/14/2026

01/13/2026

01/13/2026

01/12/2026

01/12/2026

01/12/2026

01/10/2026

01/09/2026

01/08/2026

01/08/2026

01/08/2026

01/08/2026

Address

Website

Alerts

Contact The Practice

Shortcuts

Share

Category