Community Events 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/
Survey from the National Paralysis Resource Center
Open until May 11
Feedback from the paralysis community is sought to identify gaps and improve services.
Survey: https://redcap.vanderbilt.edu/surveys/?s=PA3H4APAMTHA4YHW&
REVIVE! Trainings
Multiple dates & times
Be prepared for an overdose! Learn how to administer naloxone, and what to do afterwards. Get supplies.
Register: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/community-services-board/heroin-opioids/revive
Move for Mental Health
Sun. May 1, 10:30 am-1 pm, Mason Park, 6621 Columbia Pike, Annandale
Live performances, self-care stations, fun run, and community service hours for FCPS students.
Register: bit.ly/move4mentalhealth
Dads Parenting Group — 13 meetings
Mondays, May 2 to Aug. 1, 6:00-8:30 pm
Buff up your Dad skills with group activities, discussion, meals, resources, and camaraderie.
Register: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/familyservices/children-youth/father-engagement
Caring for YOU So You Can Care for Your Child — For Moms with ADHD
Tue., May 3, 1 pm
Consider the challenges specific to mothers with ADHD parenting children with ADHD and strategies that help.
Register: https://www.additudemag.com/webinar/moms-with-adhd-parenting-wellbeing-advice/?
Critical Decision Points for Families of Students with Disabilities
Wednesdays, May 4, & May 11, 6-8 pm
Learn how to avoid schooling decisions that can severely limit future opportunities for students in unanticipated ways.
Register: https://doe-virginia-gov.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_4S61NBEySKq_JkKzLMK60g
From Referral to Eligibility: A Deeper Dive
Wed. May 4, 6:30-7:30 pm
Learn about the initial stages of special education in Virginia.
What's In My Young Child's IEP? — For Parents of Children Age 2-7
Thursdays, May 5, OR May 19, 11:30 am-1:00 pm or 4:00-6:00 pm
Choose a 20 min. time slot to talk with an early childhood specialist about your child’s IEP and gain resources to help.
Worry and Anxiety in Children and Adolescents: Using Evidence-based Strategies to Help Kids and Caregivers Cope During Tough Times
Fri. May 6, 10:00-11:30 am, with replay link
Learn about the biological roots of anxiety, how to change anxious thinking, and current treatment options.
Let’s Talk About Mental Health
Fri. May 6, 10 am-noon, with replay link
Learn about common diagnoses, warning signs of problems, and how to support your mental health or that of a loved one.
Register: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_OpLB8hgITVy87WnJkSNl6g
MILCON 2022 From Alpha to Zulu — For military service members
Sun. May 8, 6 pm to Mon. May 9, 3:30 pm
This conference for military families and educators will include topics such as PCSing with an IEP and transition services.
Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/milcon-2022-from-alpha-to-zulu-registration-257285326337
Parenting with Co-Occurring Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities
Tue. May 10, 2-3 pm
Experienced parents will discuss the bias and discrimination they received and the strategies they used to become successful.
Special Education Eligibility
Tue. May 10, 6:30-7:45 pm
Learn about the steps by which a student becomes eligible for special education.
Register: https://peatc.org/event/special-education-eligibility/
Maintaining Routines Outside of School
Wed. May 11, 10:00-11:30 am OR 7:00-8:30 pm, 8115 Gatehouse Rd. Falls Church
This workshop is for parents of students with the low incidence disabilities of autism, intellectual disabilities, or physical disabilities.
Register: Contact Liane Sprunk at (571) 423-4110 or by email
The Hidden Curriculum
Wed. May 11, 6:30-7:45 pm
Learn what is hidden, and gain practical tips on how to teach this non-verbal information to students with learning differences.
Register: https://peatc.org/event/early-childhood-academy-spring-2022/
A Parent's Guide to the Best School Options for Students with ADHD and LD
Wed. May 11, 1 pm
Learn the pros and cons of different school options, factors to consider, and how to choose one for your child and your family.
Register: https://www.additudemag.com/webinar/best-schools-for-adhd-ld-options/?
Building Trauma Responsive Communities
Thu.-Fri. May 12 &13, 9:30 am-3:00 pm
A morning keynote will be followed each day with a choice of three presentations and a panel discussion.
Register: https://southsidebh.org/trauma- responsive-communities/
Using DBT Skills to Reduce Conflict in Our Families
Fri. May 13, 9-10 am
Learn how mastering the skill of emotional regulation will make the biggest impact to improve the emotional tone of our home.
Managing Fighting and Aggression
Fri. May 13, 10:00-11:30 am
Consider some reasons why children fight and the skills that kids need to cooperate and get along well with others.
Early Childhood Academy — For families of young children with disabilities
May 14 to June 18 — self paced course
Learn practical information to help you help your child develop skills to be successful in life.
Register: https://peatc.org/event/early-childhood-academy-spring-2022/
Sibshop — For Siblings (in Grades 2-6) of a Child with Special Needs
Sat. May 14, 9 am-noon, Providence Comm. Ctr. 3001 Vaden Dr, Fairfax
Siblings share experiences and receive peer support in a relaxed setting with fun games and activities.
Lead, Support, Empower! Latinx Outreach Summit In Spanish
Liderar, apoyar, empoderar! Cumbre de alcance
Sab. 14 de mayo, 9 am-3 pm, Virginia Crossings Conf. Ctr. Richmond
Familias y profesionales se unen para comprender mejor la diversidad, la cultura, la educación especial, y nuestra comunidad.
Registrarse: https://bit.ly/3g7Zvl8
Social Justice for Voting Rights — 2 sessions for youth in grades 6-9
Tuesdays, May 17 & 24, 4:30-6:30 pm, 4031 University Dr. Fairfax
Dinner and discussion on voting rights led by a FCPL librarian. NO reading needed beforehand. Dinner provided.
Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/social-justice-book-club-tickets-302870733517
Transition Lunch & Learn with an ABLENow Expert
Wed. May 18, noon-1:30 pm
Plan for the transition to adult services by learning about available supports for employment, transportation, recreation, and day services.
Register: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJcqcOuurjsjHtHPVysnNwEhc3ZXUUZsrn_A
How to Effectively Communicate with My Child’s Teacher (Part 2 of 3)
Wed. May 18, 6-7 pm
Consider how to use communication, consistency, and collaboration so as to become an active participant in IEP meetings.
Register: https://autismfirstus.com/events/
Becoming More Familiar with Extended School Year (ESY)
Thu, May 19, 7-8 pm
Learn about the function of ESY, criteria for eligibility, and how it can be customized for your child’s needs.
Register: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/8407118114957622541
Friendship Building Strategies — In Spanish
Estrategias de construcción de amistad
Mié. 18 de may, 7-8 pm
Aprenda estrategias para facilitar amistades importantes entre estudiantes con y sin discapacidades.
Registrarse: https://peatc.org/event/friendship-building-strategies-estrategias-de-construccion-de-amistad/
Anxiety in Children: Overlooked Signs and Effective Supports
Thu. May 19, 1 pm, with replay link
Learn key skills needed to successfully manage anxiety while promoting courage, confidence, and resilience.
Register: https://www.additudemag.com/webinar/anxiety-in-children-teens-signs-supports/?
Navigating Life in Foster Care – Panel of Young Adults with Lived Experience
Thu. May 19, 1:00-2:30 pm $15-$0 use coupon code: FOSTER
Panelists will reflect on their experiences in foster care and tools they deem necessary for supporting foster youth and families.
NPAC Family Game Night – For adoptive families in NOVA
Thu. May 19, 5:30-7:00 pm,
Online games, with prizes and delivered dinners.
Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/npac-family-game-night-learn-play-win-tickets-294719252217
Growing Through Tough Moments with Early Learners
Fri, May 20, 10:00-11:30 am
Learn more about how self-regulation, executive functioning, and routines can help your children learn and develop.
Register: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSczHs1A7GJDcDRL4lQYHz0U8mH4_SlDJRbfSw4oxyRYo2PR8g/viewform
Special Needs Trust
Fri. May 20, 10:00-11:30 am
Learn about the role of a special needs trust in keeping government benefits and ensuring your (adult) child’s needs will be met.
Register: https://thearcofnovatrust.org/event/special-needs-trust-may-20
The Unexpected Link Between Migraine Headaches and ADHD
Tue. May 24, 1 pm
Consider the factors that can lead to headaches and strategies to reduce or stop migraines.
Register: https://www.additudemag.com/webinar/migraine-headaches-adhd-link/
P.O.R.N. Webinar: Protect Our Relatives Now
Tue. May 24, 6:30-7:45 pm
The presenter will discuss sexuality and how to support safe sexual exploration while prompting autonomy and independence.
Register: https://peatc.org/event/p-o-r-n-webinar-protect-our-relatives-now/
Anatomy of an IEP
Wed. May 25, 6:30-7:45 pm
Learn about the sequence and contents of the separate sections of an Individualized Educational Plan.
Register: https://peatc.org/event/special-education-workshop-series-may-25th-anatomy-of-an-iep/
Plan Ahead — Parent Institute 2022
June 23 & June 24
This training connects parents who are new to special education with resources, guidance, and networking opportunities.
Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/parent-institute-2022-registration-297097796507
Ongoing and On Demand
Learning Your Way — Online Self-Paced Courses
24/7 Access, Feb. 15, 8 am to Jun. 30, 11 pm
Courses for foster, adoptive, and kinship care families on Special Education 101, Constructive Communication, and Trauma 101.
Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/learning-your-way-spring-2022-tickets-233867141917
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/?
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
An Individualized Approach to Raising Your Challenging Child Video Course
Content available for 6 months $100-$350
This course is to help parents of children, age 3-12, to identify the source of their child’s challenging behavior and learn what they can do about it.
Information: http://www.parentchildjourney.com/journey/
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 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.
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
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
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 .
