Parent Information Relating to Special Education
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All these opportunities are FREE unless noted.
In most cases you must register if registration information is provided.
When other events are announced they will be posted with these at:
https://fairfaxcountysepta.org/upcoming-community-events/
Plan Ahead — Dad’s Parenting Group — in Spanish
Planifique con anticipación — Grupo de crianza de papa
Miércoles 6 sep. a dic. 6:30-8:30 pm
Se enfoca en cinco características que todos los padres necesitan para ser padres efectivos: conciencia de sí mismo, autocuidado, habilidades de paternidad, paternidad, y relaciones.
Pre-Registro: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/familyservices/children-youth/father-engagement
Plan Ahead — Horse Budz — for children ages 10-13
Sun. Sep. 11, 11:00 am-12:30 pm, 18915 Lincoln Rd. Purcellville
This NON-RIDING therapeutic workshop is not a substitute for counseling. $95; Needs based funding may be available.
Pre-Register: https://www.thearcofloudoun.org/event/horse-budz-september/
Plan Ahead — Dad’s Parenting Group in English
Wednesdays Sep. 14 to Dec. 6:00-8:30 pm
Focus on five characteristics all fathers need to be effective dads: self-awareness; self-care; fathering, parenting, and relationship skills. Includes meals & activities.
Pre-Register: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/familyservices/children-youth/father-engagement
Plan Ahead — Collaborative & Proactive Solutions — 1- or 2-day training
Thu. & Fri. Sep. 15 & 16, 9:45 am-5:15 pm $119-$199
Ross Green will be teaching his model which provides practical, research-based tools for assessment and intervention.
Early Bird Registration— Wrightslaw Education Law and Advocacy Conference
Wed. & Thu. Nov. 16 &17, with Q&A on Mon. Nov. 21
Learn about special education law, rights, tests and measurements, SMART IEPs, and advocacy. $155-$210
Register by Sep. 15: https://www.wrightslaw.com/speak/22.11.md.htm
Survey — Autism and Emergency Response
Responses to this caregiver survey will be used to develop evidence-based autism trainings for first responders.
Access: https://virginia.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8zYSsbayRT47A90
Stixrud Webinar Series
Tue. Sep. 6, 6-7 pm
Two neuropsychologists will talk for 15 minutes on a topic and open it up for group discussion by parents of autistic children.
Register: https://xminds.org/event-4773454?CalendarViewType=1&SelectedDate=9/23/2022
Back to School with ADHD: Out of the Box Approaches
Tue. Sep. 6, 7-8 pm
Learn about identification of ADHD, school services, parenting strategies, and eligibility for school and post-secondary accommodations
Register: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/784029180442636557
The Power of Positive Reinforcement: Why Rewards Trump Punishments for Students with ADHD
Thu. Sep. 8, 4 pm
Positive reinforcement inspires more consistent motivation and better learning outcomes for children with ADHD. Learn how.
Register; https://www.additudemag.com/webinar/power-of-positive-reinforcement-adhd-students/?
"I Can't Focus!" When ADHD Impacts Your Child's Math and Writing Performance
Thu. Sep. 8, 6:30-8:00 pm
Learn strategies and tech tools to help your child work in a more organized way and improve in writing and math.
Register: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfDbHxK5j-LeMMldXCXACGXY0xRkUq4MtX_zhMF68cksiMP9w/viewform
Anxiety in Children and Adolescents — Hybrid course
Thu. Sep. 8, 15, 22, & 29, 7-8 pm, plus online video content. $0-$200
Learn about the many causes of anxiety and what to do about it, in the family, school, and community. Includes discussion time.
Register: https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07ej97pjqx4ed8c18d&oseq=&c=&ch=
ADHD Meds for Children and Adolescents — Hybrid course
Thu. Sep. 8, 15, 22, & 29, 8:15-9:15 pm, plus online video content $0-$200
Gain a comprehensive view of how to start, adjust, manage side effects of, and stop ADHD medication. Includes discussion time.
Register: https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07ej97pjrl2e78269b&oseq=&c=&ch=
Financial Planning: How Much is Enough?
Fri. Sep. 9, 10:00-11:30 am
Learn about the "must-haves" in financial planning, and explore strategies for anticipating future needs.
Register: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_PlrNTPvSS6mXgCx_nFueMA
Children’s Challenging Behaviors
Sat. Sep. 10, 9:30 am-3:30 pm, 13505 Hillendale Dr. Woodbridge
Learn about typical vs challenging behavior, when to seek help, special education, and community resources. Lunch included.
Register: email mvictors@verizon.net or 703 659-9983
The Big Step: Early Intervention to Preschool
Wed. Sep. 14, 6:30 pm
Learn about the transition to preschool, tips for success, and the roles of parents, service coordinators, and educators.
Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_D9epy7QTSHuYgKjmFmo1Hg#/registration
Family Engagement Conference
Thu. Sep.15, 8 am to Thu. Sep. 22, 11:30 pm
Gain concrete innovative strategies and methods to work with educators collaboratively toward student success.
Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2022-virtual-family-engagement-conference-registration-388184649737
Collaborative & Proactive Solutions (CPS) — 1-2 Day Training
Thu. & Fri. Sep. 15 & 16, 9:45 am-5:15 pm $119-$199
Gain an overview of the CPS model, including the use of assessments and problem solving.
Supporting Siblings of Children with Disabilities
Thu. Sep 15, 2:30 pm
Learn the challenges and opportunities of how to help siblings of children with disabilities to feel supported.
Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_xSOHQ1LnRMOz2NbkesKilQ#/registration
The Right Questions to Ask Before, During, and After an ADHD Diagnosis
Thu. Sep. 15, 1 pm
Make the most of the process of getting a diagnosis by learning what to look for and ask about.
Register: https://www.additudemag.com/webinar/adhd-evaluation-diagnosis-treatment-questions/?
Signs and Symptoms of Eating Disorders: What Families and Schools Need to Know
Fri. Sep. 16, 10:00-11:30 am
Expand your knowledge of facts and myths about eating disorders and how to avoid negative messaging on body image and food.
Social Security Basics
Fri. Sep. 16, 10:00-11:30 am
Learn about Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability Insurance, Retirement, Survivorship, and Disabled Adult Child (SSDI) programs.
Register: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEtc-ioqD4uHdd8p711A-mUOllISAUAAXcJ
Engagement in the Early Intervention Program Planning Process for Parents and Professionals
Tue. Sep. 20, 1 pm, with replay link, captioned
Gain an overview of early intervention and special education and how you can use the process to benefit your child.
Register: https://thearc-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/1516546401856/WN_ewBaDfUpTIiEE3LqEw49xQ
Back to What?! Coping Strategies to Successfully Manage the Transition Back to School
Wed. Sep. 21, 7-8 pm
Learn coping strategies for you and your children to manage stress, support academic success, and deal with setbacks.
Register; https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/6080475648259378703
Telemedicine for ADHD: What You Need to Know
Wed. Sep. 21, 8 pm
Learn about the advantages and disadvantages of telemedicine, how to find a reputable provider, and the services to expect.
Register: https://chadd.org/webinars/what-you-should-know-about-telemedicine-for-adhd-ask-the-expert/
Supporting Early Childhood Friendships
Thu. Sep. 22, 2:30-3;30 pm
Consider how to maximize health by facilitating social opportunities, interactions, and friendships for your children.
Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_xSOHQ1LnRMOz2NbkesKilQ#/registration
The 2e Playbook for Nurturing Gifted Students with ADHD
Tue. Sep. 27, 1 pm, with replay link
Learn how to ensure success from preschool to college for gifted students with disabilities.
Register: https://www.additudemag.com/webinar/2e-twice-exceptional-gifted-adhd-education-services/
Gang Prevention — In Spanish
Prevención de pandillas: Un seminario para familias y miembros de la comunidad
Martes, 27 de Sep. 6:00-7:30 pm
Aprenda sobre las pandillas, qué hacen, por qué los jóvenes se unen a ellas, y cómo reducir la participación en pandillas.
Registrarse: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScBLWqx_dQa3zSHLkJFH6Z82Hp0fPkCW6RRLeL4eJNSsZQQGw/viewform?
Plan Ahead — Parents of Challenging Children: Preschool through Early Adolescence
10 Thursdays 8-9 pm, Oct. 6 to Dec. 15 $50-$350
Includes video course with > 10 hours of content in 3-5 min. videos
This course helps parents to identify the source of their child’s challenging behavior and learn what to do about it.
Information: http://www.parentchildjourney.com/journey/
Ongoing and On Demand
Advanced Training in Collaborative & Proactive Solutions
Participants will learn how to use the ALSUP assessment and how to solve problems collaboratively. $149
Access: https://vimeo.com/ondemand/2dayjan22
The Arc@School Advocacy Curriculum $99 for 6 months
Build your special education knowledge, know the law, and learn to advocate for the services your child needs. Scholarship: https://thearcus.surveymonkey.com/r/H7WNHB7
Purchase: https://thearcatschool.org/advocacy-curriculum/?
Fairfax County’s Pre-Notification 9-1-1 Program
Enroll now in this new public safety program for individuals with disabilities.
Details & Registration: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/911/emergency-health-profile
Dyslexia & the IEP: How to Make Sure the IEP Is in Tip-Top Shape
Webinar, available 24/7
Access: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=frehRL58UTs
Accommodations for Recreational Classes and Camps with Fairfax County Parks
Accommodations include physical accessibility, ASL interpreters, assistive devices, sensitivity training for classmates, and staff training.
To request accommodations, email gary.logue@fairfaxcounty.gov or 703 324-8563
Scholarships for Classes with Fairfax County Parks
Children of families that receive public assistance (medicaid, free school lunch, SNAP, TANF) are eligible to take one set of classes per quarter for a $15 registration fee.
Information: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/scholarships
NAMI Basics
This 6-session course is for adults who provide care for youth (ages 22 and younger) who are experiencing mental health symptoms (including ADHD and ASD).
Register: https://www.nami.org/Videos/NAMI-Basics-OnDemand
Wrightslaw Special Education Law and Advocacy Training
Learn about special education law, rights and responsibilities; tests to measure progress and regression; SMART IEPs; and strategies for effective advocacy.
Info: https://www.wrightslaw.com/webex/law.adv.index.htm $50-$90
The Parent Playbook — 9 Module Online Course on Autism
From the VCU Autism Center for Excellence & Virginia Autism Council. An introduction on Autism Spectrum Disorder for families, including tips for caregivers, characteristics, interventions and recommended programs and services.
Access: https://vcuautismcenter.org/te/courses/parent_playbook.cfm
Ongoing Community Support Groups
All these support groups are open to newcomers, and they are free, except where noted. No diagnosis is required to participate. Participants are typically given the opportunity to share their story, experience support, and glean guidance (as desired) from group members regarding both community and school resources. Confidentiality is to be respected.
AAC Parent Group meets occasionally on Saturdays. Contact: Amanda amandam@skillbuildersllc.com or 703-941-7757 ext. 316
African American Culturally Focused Virtual Parent Café meets Thursdays, 6:00-7:30 pm. Register at least 24 hours in advance by email BuildingStrongerFamilies@fairfaxcounty.gov or 703-324-7720
Alpha Moms This support group for adoptive parents meets monthly in McLean. Contact: robin4brady@gmail.com
Arlington Epilepsy Support Group, a list-serve, can be accessed at ARLepilepsy@googlegroups.com
Autism Dads meets one evening monthly. Contact: George Buzby at 571-419-1257 or gbuzby@aol.com
Autism Society of NoVA Support Group meets on the 2nd Saturday of the month, 1:00-2:30 pm via Zoom. https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9466001682; Meeting ID: 946 600 1682; One tap mobile (301) 715-8592
Business Networking Event for Special Needs Parents
Alternate Fridays, April 24 and following, 9:00-10:30 am Via Zoom. Connect with fellow special needs parents and business owners, build your referral network, and share best practices. Contact: https://thearcofloudoun.org/networking/
Cafés Virtuales Para Padres: Miércoles de 7:00-8:30 pm. Regístrese con al menos 24 horas de anticipación: BuildingStrongerFamilies@fairfaxcounty.gov o 703-324-7720
CHADD: Children & Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Alexandria CHADD Parent Support Group 4th Mon. of each month at 6:30 pm. Contact: Susan, ADHDParentMountVernon@gmail.com or call 303-903-9972.
West Fairfax/Burke CHADD Parent Support Group 1st & 3rd Thur. of each month at 8:00 pm Contact: Cathy, ocgreulich@aol.com
CSB Family Support Group at Gatlan Center 2nd and 4th Wed. of each month 6:00-7:30 pm via Zoom Contact: Samar.Chwairy@fairfaxcounty.gov or call 703-799-2882.
D.A.D.S. Dads Appreciating Down Syndrome 3rd Tue. each month, 7-9 pm via Zoom. Contact: George gbuzby@aol.com or call 703- 545-6089.
Dr. Dan’s Support Group for Parents Raising Challenging Children meets via Zoom on Mondays, 1-2 pm, Register: http://survey.constantcontact.com/survey/a07eh2rnzqrk9vdghmb/a0179kbgrhnj1/questions
Fairfax Juvenile Court Parent Support for problems including runaway behavior, truancy, alcohol/drug abuse, and serious behavioral problems at home, at school, or in the community. Sign up for a phone consultation at https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0a44abab29abf85-juvenile
Family F.I.R.S.T. Fridays Autism Support Group meets on the 1st Friday monthly, noon-12:45 at Gum Spring Library 24600 Millstream Dr. Stone Ridge
Family Recovery & Support Group meets weekly via Zoom on Mondays 6:30-7:30 pm for family and friends of those receiving CSB services for addictions. Contact: Natalie.Holmes@fairfaxcounty.gov www.fairfaxcounty.gov/community-services-board/recovery/family-support-virtual-group
Formed Families Together consists of monthly peer support groups for adoptive, kinship, and foster caregivers and parents. Virtual support group meets the 1st Sunday evening monthly. In-Person support group meets the 3rd Wednesday evening monthly. Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/formed-families-together-support-groups-tickets-147657582805
Foster the Family Support Group for foster and adoptive moms meets the 3rd Monday of each month, 6:30-8:00 pm in Falls Church. Childcare is provided. Register: https://www.fosterthefamilydc.org/supportgroups
Grupo de Chat para Padres: Unete mediante la aplicación de WhatsApp y podras mantenerte al tanto de todo lo que PEATC Latino esta haciendo. Entra al GRUPO: https://bit.ly/2VoU2vw (Chat Group for Latino Parents: Join through the WhatsApp application and you will be able to keep up to date with everything that PEATC Latino is doing.)
Grupo de educación y apoyo a padres en española se reúne el cuarto sábado de cada mes, de 10 a 11 am en Zoom en https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9466001682 ID de reunión: 946 600 1682
Heads Up and Talk It Out — Teen and Parent Recovery Groups
These are concurrent virtual groups for teens (ages 14-17) who are working through emotional, mental health or substance use challenges and their parents every Thursday 6-7 pm. Info: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/community-services-board/recovery/heads-up-talk-it-out
Kinship Café meets online 6:30-8:00 pm the 2nd Wednesday of the month for those raising the children of relatives and friends. To attend, call 703-324-7720 or email BuildingStrongerFamilies@fairfaxcounty.gov
Let's Talk Transitions meets monthly on the 4th Wednesday at 7 pm to discuss their autistic teen's post-high school plans.
Register: https://xminds.org/event-4522626
NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness builds better lives for affected families. Arlington Parent Support Group meets two Sundays a month at 7:00-8:30 pm. Contact: Michelle Best mczero@yahoo.com
NAMI Family Support Group meets on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays on Zoom for parents of children living with mental health challenges including ADHD, ASD, etc. https://zoom.us/j/94509229914
NAMI Parent & Caregiver Support Group meets on the 4th Thursday monthly. Email namicva.org or call 804-285-1749
NOVA Adopt Friends Parent Peer Support Group for adoptive parents meets on the 3rd Thursdays monthly 6:00-7:30 pm. Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/5687947368
OCD Family Support Group meets the 1st Mon. of each month, 7:30 pm. Contact: ela.mike@verizon.net or call 202-215-5859
Parent Café (for all Fairfax County parents and guardians) meets via Zoom in English on Mon., 7:45-9:15 pm, and en español, miércoles, 7:00-8:30 pm. Register at least 24 hours in advance by email BuildingStrongerFamilies@fairfaxcounty.gov or 703-324-7720
Parents in a Pandemic is for families of children or young adults with developmental and/or behavioral challenges. They meet twice monthly, 5:30-6:30 pm on Wednesdays. Register: https://thearcofnova.org/november-december-dates-for-virtual-parent-support-group-meetings/
Parents of Autistic Children (POAC-NOVA) Parent Support Group meets on Saturdays occasionally. Contact: Brianne Russel-Morris administrator@poac-nova.org .
REACH Parent Support Group meets monthly to support parents of individuals with developmental disabilities who also have mental health or behavioral issues. Contact: Dr. Pourmand mojgan.pourmand@eastersealsucp.com
Virginia Family Network Book Club for parents and caregivers of children living with mental health challenges meets on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays at 7 pm. Contact Nicole Anjum at nanjum@namivirginia.org .
Virginia Family Network Parent Meetup is on the 1st and 3rd Fridays at 8 pm for parents/caregivers of children with mental health challenges. Contact Nicole Anjum at nanjum@namivirginia.org .
