August 2025 Newsletter
Care. Connection. Community.
These words guide everything we do at PCDA—and they’ve never felt more alive than they do right now.
This spring, we launched a collaborative strategic planning process, and we’re incredibly thankful for the input and energy from so many people who care deeply about PCDA’s mission and future. Input from client families, staff, board members, community partners, and philanthropic supporters all came together to shape a shared vision for what’s next. Your ideas, feedback, and lived experiences helped us prioritize what matters most.
In July, our Board of Directors voted to officially adopt our strategic plan, giving us a clear path forward across three key focus areas—including one we hold especially close: building and strengthening community.
At PCDA, community means a lot of things. It’s the support our team members give each other across disciplines. It’s the connection between families who feel seen and supported in their journey. It’s the generosity of donors and partners who share our commitment to inclusion, equity, and care. And it’s the everyday joy of running into familiar faces at the farmers market, while walking the loop at the Rose Bowl, or grabbing a coffee in Pasadena—each reminder that we’re part of something bigger than ourselves.
As we step into this next chapter, we’re excited to carry forward the momentum you helped create. And we want to say clearly: there’s a place for you here. Whether you’re already part of our community or just learning about PCDA, we invite you to join us. There is meaningful work ahead, and it’s even better when we do it together.
Click to read Forward Together: Strategic Plan 2025-2026.
On July 15, PCDA friends and supporters came together for an unforgettable evening of connection, joy, and community in the stunning backyard of board member Daniel Dávila and his wife, April. This wasn’t just any house party, it was a heartfelt celebration of purpose, passion, and the incredible work we do together!
Guests were greeted with delicious appetizers, refreshing drinks, and an electric energy that filled the air, a true reflection of the deep commitment everyone shares for PCDA’s mission. Executive Director Julie Miller and Board Chair Anne Perry inspired the crowd with heartfelt talks about the vital role PCDA plays in our community, the exciting direction ahead, and how each of us can help make an even bigger impact.
But the fun didn’t stop there. Julie and Director of Group Programs Jennifer Avendaño led a lively team challenge that got everyone moving, laughing, and collaborating. Guests tested their balance, memory, agility, communication, and focus through a series of playful activities, bringing to life the very skills our programs nurture every day.
To wrap up the night, board member Daniel Dávila passionately shared his personal journey on the PCDA board and what this incredible community means to him. His words truly captured the spirit of dedication and heart that defines PCDA.
We are deeply grateful to everyone who joined us, especially Daniel and April, for opening their home and hearts. This night was a beautiful reminder of the power of community and shared purpose. We can’t wait to gather again and keep the momentum going!
Play With Purpose
It may look like just play, but learning to slow down and truly connect in the moment takes practice—and that’s exactly what our team has been working on.
At a recent staff meeting, we explored DIR® Floortime Capacity 3, focusing on how children and caregivers share back-and-forth communication through gestures, sounds, expressions, and words. We practiced building anticipation, supporting all forms of communication, and creating space for a child to show their own ideas. It’s a reminder that playful moments aren’t just fun—they’re where trust, connection, and growth take root.
August means new routines, fresh notebooks, and adjustments in schedules and environments. For many children, especially those with autism or other developmental differences, this transition can take extra support. At PCDA, we focus on building safety, confidence, and readiness for the school year ahead.
PCDA's services use a relationship-based, developmental approach that supports sensory, communication, and social-emotional needs. Families can also build these skills at home to help ease the transition.
Here are a few tips from our clinicians:
🕐 Start routines early
Gradually shift bedtime and wake-up times a week or two before school starts. Use visual schedules or checklists to provide predictability, support executive functioning, and reduce sensory-related stress. Started too late? It’s ok, just know it’s hard to fall asleep when your body isn’t tired and your mind is excited for the next day.
🎒 Practice the morning routine
Establish a consistent sequence for school-day steps—getting dressed, packing lunch, brushing teeth, and heading out the door—and practice it together. Use a picture schedule to make each step predictable, supporting both independence and confidence.
🗣️ Talk about what to expect
Use social stories, photos, or role-play to preview school routines, teachers, classmates, and rules. Pair language with visuals or gestures to reinforce comprehension and help your child link words to experiences.
🎧 Create a regulation plan
Transitions can be sensory-rich and overwhelming. Partner with your child’s teacher to identify tools—like movement breaks, fidgets, deep breathing, or quiet spaces—that help them stay regulated and engaged in learning.
💬 Encourage communication
Offer multiple ways for your child to process and express their feelings about going back to school—whether through words, drawing, movement, or AAC. Allow them to explore their emotions at their own pace and in their own way. Validate their experience and provide a safe space for them to feel heard.
At PCDA, we understand that each child’s journey is unique. Our team is here to support your family with practical tools and personalized strategies for transitions, self-regulation, and communication. We value working closely with you to help your child feel safe and confident every day. If you have questions or need guidance, please connect with your clinician—we’re ready to help.
📆 Mark the Day: PCDA Events on the Way!
Virtual Coffee Corner ☕
Next hangout: September 5 @ 9am
Add this to your calendar!
Join me—Kristine, your Development Manager—every First Friday of the month from 9:00–9:30 AM for a casual virtual hangout!
Join Our Village
Donations
Your support creates lasting impact.
A monthly gift of $10 or more helps PCDA provide consistent, relationship-based care for children and young adults with developmental differences. Your generosity keeps our mission thriving.
Gifts In Kind
Support our programs with a gift of supplies.
From art materials to sensory tools, the right items help our youth stay engaged and growing. Check out our Wish List to see what’s most needed right now.