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/
FCPS Special Needs Summer Camp Guide
The Parent Resource Center has posted information (without endorsements) for a wide variety of camps for students with special needs.
Access: https://padlet.com/prc9/SNsummercamp
Plan Ahead — Wrightslaw Two-Day Bootcamp $175-$265
Fri. & Sat. Mar. 11-12, 9 am-4:30 pm, Charleston Area WV
Learn about special education law, rights and responsibilities; tests to measure progress and regression; SMART IEPs; and strategies for effective advocacy.
Register: https://www.wrightslaw.com/speak/22.03.wv.htm
Save the Date— FCPS Special Education Conference
Sat. Mar. 26
The conference will be virtual with both live and recorded presentations and an exhibit hall.
REVIVE! Trainings
Tue. Mar. 1, 9, 17, 26, 30 at various times
Learn what to do in an overdose situation, how to administer naloxone, and what to do afterwards. Supplies provided.
Register: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/community-services-board/heroin-opioids/revive
IEP University (IEPU) — Self-Paced Course
Tue. Mar. 1 to Tue. Mar. 15, with access 24/7
Get accurate and useful information on IEP development and meetings. Includes practical strategies.
Register: https://bit.ly/3wz4Wkg
Reevaluations: Tips for Continuing Special Education Eligibility
Tue. Mar. 1, 7-8 pm
Make the most of the reevaluation process, with options for transitioning from developmental delay to other eligibilities.
Register: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7039444396685866512
ACE Interface: Adverse Childhood Experiences
Tue. Mar. 1, 7 pm
Learn how to improve our lives by being aware of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and how to mitigate their effects.
Access; https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83532609327?pwd=MFhtMytOL0FsOEdpb0pXZzZ2TCtOdz09#success
How To Talk So Schools Will Listen (And Listen So Schools Will Talk)
Wed. Mar. 2, 6:30-7:30 pm
How communication is delivered and received is almost as important as the message itself in determining success!
Register: https://bit.ly/3phygsb
Speak Up for Yourself: Teaching Kids the Power of Self-Advocacy for Academic Success
Thu. Mar. 3, 1 pm, with replay access
Learn how to help your kids build the confidence they need to become more independent learners.
Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_yG7fHEBYT66fApLcGqzpzQ
Bridging Cultural And Generational Differences — In Arabic
Thu. Mar. 3, 6:30-8:00 pm
Consider how to meet the challenge of caring for your children in a culture that is different from your own.
Register: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSde33sbBDpWJDQ5In3WKreKbSxAKqQqExOBSS78Y5ethAxHOA/viewform
Sibshops— For Siblings (in Grades 2-6) of a Child with Special Needs
Fri. Mar. 4, 9 am-noon OR 1:00~2:30 pm
Siblings share experiences and receive peer support in a relaxed setting with fun games and activities.
Register: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSctWCv-KCQoB0qSi2DfTSR0xAmRYDr8ZlOveV7IjGKDgKhDjw/viewform?
Military Benefits, Retirement, and Financial Planning
Fri. Mar. 4, 10 am-noon
A panel will focus on financial planning for active-duty military, reservists, veterans, and military retirees with a disabled family member.
Register: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_o8oI3gnRT0mrBq9tW07Ljg
Supported Decision Making Basics and Fostering Community Inclusion
Mon. Mar. 7, 11 am
Learn about supported decision making and how it can foster inclusion of those with developmental disabilities in the community.
Register: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_-u8ix_rFTASUiBTTVjXz1g
What is the Difference Between an IEP & a Section 504 Plan?
Tue. Mar. 8, noon-1 pm
Learn about student learning difficulties, IEPs and 504 plans, your parental rights, and how to work with your school.
Top 10 IEP & 504 Plan Problems: A Troubleshooting Guide
Tue. Mar. 8, 1 pm, with replay link
Come with your questions on how to improve the services your child is receiving via a 504 plan or IEP.
Register: https://www.additudemag.com/webinar/iep-504-plan-top-problems-solutions/
Special Education for Formed Families: Making It Work!
Tue. Feb. 8, 7-8 pm
Lean how to deal with unusual challenges for special education in these families, including delays, trauma, and who’s in charge.
What Is NLD, Nonverbal Learning Disability: Could This Be My Child?
Tue. Mar. 8, 7:30 pm, with extended access, $10
Learn about the symptoms of NLD and practical solutions to help your child.
Is Your Child with Learning Differences Struggling with Anxiety? Strategies for Parents and Caregivers
Wed. Mar. 9. 7:00-8:30 pm
Learn strategies to help your child feel less anxious and get back to enjoying life!
Register: https://labschool-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/9316279321704/WN_B-fzk_cVR0yZpHkooq4EIQ
In and Out of IEP Meetings — In Spanish
Dentro y Fuera de las Reuniones del IEP
Mie. 9 de mar. 7-8 pm
Aprenda a planificar una reunión del IEP, qué esperar durante la reunión, cómo entablar relaciones allí y cómo defender a su hijo.
Registrarse: https://bit.ly/347jUUu
Effective Ways to Communicate — In Arabic
Thu. Mar. 10, 6:30-8:00 pm
Consider how to meet the challenge of caring for your children in a culture that is different from your own.
Register: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSde33sbBDpWJDQ5In3WKreKbSxAKqQqExOBSS78Y5ethAxHOA/viewform
Moving from Shame to Self-Esteem: Strategies for Parents to Support Their Children
Thu. Mar. 10, 7:00-8:30 pm with extended access. Coupon Code: SHAME $0-$15
Parents can use daily interactions to help their child recover from the effects of trauma.
Register: https://case.myabsorb.com/#/curricula/8c36e8f0-469a-4ccd-ad17-b2d0d6fb0b49
Supporting Self-Regulation Development in Early Learners
Fri. Mar. 11, 10:00-11:30 am
Learn about self-regulation skills and how to foster and support these skills with your preschool child.
Register: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSczHs1A7GJDcDRL4lQYHz0U8mH4_SlDJRbfSw4oxyRYo2PR8g/viewform
What Successful Inclusion of Nonspeakers Looks Like: Two Real Life Examples
Tue. Mar. 15, 7:00-8:30 pm
Three panelists will discuss how two autistic nonspeakers were fully included in their schools through 12th grade.
Register: https://xminds.org/event-4696519
Connecting to Special Education Services for Military Families Formed Through Adoption, Kinship Care, and Foster Care
Tue. Mar. 15, 8 pm
Become aware of how to address the special education challenges that are specific to these military families.
Register: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/1290722617649807373
Transition Lunch & Learn with a Medicaid Waivers Expert
Wed. Mar. 16, noon-1:30 pm
Learn what waivers are, services waivers offer, how to apply, tips for families on waiting lists for services, and how to use a waiver if you have one.
Register: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJcqcOuurjsjHtHPVysnNwEhc3ZXUUZsrn_A
Dispute Resolution Options in Virginia
Wed. Mar. 16, 6:30-7:30 pm
Sometimes the special education system is not working as it should, and it’s time to address that situation.
Register: https://bit.ly/3phygsb
Disciplinary Methods — In Arabic
Thu. Mar. 17, 6:30-8:00 pm
Consider how to meet the challenge of caring for your children in a culture that is different from your own.
Register: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSde33sbBDpWJDQ5In3WKreKbSxAKqQqExOBSS78Y5ethAxHOA/viewform
Social Security Basics
Fri. Mar. 18, 10:00-11:30 am
Learn about the Social Security Benefits that are designed for adults with disabilities including when and how to apply.
Register: https://thearcofnovatrust.org/event/social-security-basics/
Gang Prevention for Families and Community Members
Fri. Mar. 18, 7:00-8:30 pm
Learn about gang susceptibility and about programs and strategies to prevent and decrease youth involvement.
Talk Saves Lives
Sun. Mar. 20, 4-5 pm
Suicide can be prevented. Learn how by recognizing common risk factors and warning signs, and by learning appropriate responses.
Register: https://ncactsl03202022.attendease.com
“I Didn’t Mean It!” How ADHD Affects Communication; and Strategies to Improve It
Tue. Mar. 22, 1 pm, with replay link
Learn effective techniques to help your child overcome ADHD communication problems at school and with friends and family.
Register: https://www.additudemag.com/webinar/how-to-communicate-better-adhd-strategies/
How To Talk So Schools Will Listen (And Listen So Schools Will Talk) — For Military Families
Wed. Mar. 23, 10-11 am
How communication is delivered and received is almost as important as the message itself in determining success!
Register: Email webbb@MagellanFederal.com or (571) 231-7001
Your Voice is Important — In Spanish
Su Voz Importa
Mie. 23 de marzo, 7-8 pm
Explore las formas en que su familia puede construir una asociación sólida con la escuela de su hijo.
Registrarse: https://bit.ly/3nXCKom
Caregiver Night Out
Thu. Mar. 24, 6:30-9:00 pm $$
Respite care for children with ID/DD will be provided by ABA providers.
Register: 703-857-2157 x 501 or jmcdonald@thearcofloudoun.org
Disability Benefits: Virginia medicaid Waivers — In Spanish
Beneficios por Discapacidad: Exenciones de Medicaid de Virginia
Thu. Mar. 24, 6:30-8:00 pm
Conozca las exenciones de Medicaid de Virginia, que son beneficios del gobierno estatal para personas con discapacidades.
Registrarse: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/registro-beneficios-por-discapacidad-exenciones-de-medicaid-de-virginia-271304247307
Effective Parenting Styles — In Arabic
Thu. Mar. 24, 6:30-8:00 pm
Consider how to meet the challenge of caring for your children in a culture that is different from your own.
Register: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSde33sbBDpWJDQ5In3WKreKbSxAKqQqExOBSS78Y5ethAxHOA/viewform
Parent Child Journey — Preschool–4th grade
Mondays, Mar. 28-Jun 6, 8-9 pm, with video course. $0-&350
Parents discuss and apply information from the 10-part video course to ease and improve their children’s family life and social functioning.
Register: http://www.parentchildjourney.com/journey/
FCPS Special Education Conference
Sat. Mar. 26
The conference will be virtual with both live and recorded presentations and an exhibit hall.
Anxiety Management Parent Group
Tuesdays, Mar. 29 & Apr. 5, 8-9 am, Video course included $10-$50
Learning and discussion on childhood anxiety: diagnosis, cognitive behavioral therapy, and parent accommodation reduction.
Register: https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07ej0dbazq9c71d57d&oseq=&c=&ch=
Talk Saves Lives
Tue. Mar. 29, 7-8 pm
Suicide can be prevented. Learn how by recognizing common risk factors and warning signs, and by learning appropriate responses.
Register: https://ncactsl03312022.attendease.com
What Is Your Child’s Sensory Profile? Strategies for Supporting Children with ADHD and SPD
Wed. Mar. 30, 1 pm, with replay link
By responding to your child’s sensory needs you and your child can avoid problem behavior.
Register: https://www.additudemag.com/webinar/sensory-processing-disorder-adhd-support-child/
Save the Date — Spring Forward Family Fun Day
Sat. Apr. 30, GMU Science and Technology Campus, Prince William.
Families formed by adoption, foster, or kinship care will have age appropriate, fun group activities.
Ongoing and On Demand
The Arc@School Advocacy Curriculum $99 for 6 months
Build up your special education knowledge, know the law, and learn to advocate for the services and supports your child needs at school.
Purchase: https://thearcatschool.org/advocacy-curriculum/?
Family Coaching — 8-12 week program
Work weekly one-on-one with a coach to identify individualized goals and create a targeted family plan.
Register: https://a109092.socialsolutionsportal.com/apricot-intake/e8afd273-4daa-4525-a1f1-b8ee33528344
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.
Special Education During a Pandemic
Learn what the laws specify that schools should provide, and how you can best support your child.
Access: https://drroseann.com/special-education-during-a-pandemic/
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
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. 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 for
Parents
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.
Support Groups for Parents
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, May 29 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
Grupo de Chat para Padres: Unete a nuestro nuevo GRUPO DE CHAT 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)
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 .
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
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
