Parent Information Relating to Special Education
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All these opportunities are FREE unless noted.
Todos estos eventos son gratuitos excepto donde se indique.
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/
Research Study — Executive Function Research Project
Tweens (ages 8-13) with any psychological diagnosis are sought for magnetic resonance imaging for executive function skills.
Contact Laura Campos: lcampos@cnmc.org or 301-765-5478
Special Education Complaint Toolkit — by PEATC
Detailed information on why, when, and how to file a complaint is included among with interactive forms. Read before the need!
Access: https://peatc.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Complaint-Toolkit-Interactive.pdf
Plan Ahead — Dads Parenting Group
Tuesdays, Feb. 7 to Apr. 25, 6:00-8:30 pm
Hone your Father Skills by meeting with other Dads to focus on self-awareness, self-care, parenting skills and relationship skills.
Pre-Register: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/familyservices/children-youth/father-engagement
REVIVE! Training
Multiple dates & times
Be prepared for an overdose! Learn how to administer naloxone, and what to do afterwards. Receive supplies.
Register: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/community-services-board/heroin-opioids/revive
Understanding the Manifestation Determination Review Process
Wed. Feb. 1, 6:00-7:30 pm
Students with a disability have the right for a manifestation determination when suspended. Find out about this benefit.
Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_XvfJCRhnQue6hzzsmoXqWA#/registration
From Referral to Eligibility
Wed. Feb. 1, 6:30-7:30 pm
Learn about the initial stages of special education including how to make a referral and key timelines.
Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN__yegcDXfSJCGh9YYrVKevQ#/registration
ReelAbilities Film Festival: Northern Virginia
Thu. Feb. 2 to Mar. 5, locations vary $0-$varies
View and discuss films promoting an awareness and appreciation of the lives, stories, and people with life challenges and different abilities.
Tickets: https://www.jccnv.org/reel-abilities/reelabilities-film-festival-northern-virginia/
How to Prepare for and Represent Your Child in an MDR Hearing
Thu. Feb. 2, 6:00-7:30 pm
Learn how to prepare for a manifestation determination review (MDR) even before your child might possibly need it.
Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_XvfJCRhnQue6hzzsmoXqWA#/registration
Parents of Challenging Children: Preschool through Early Adolescence
Thursdays Feb. 2 to Mar. 30, 8-9 pm $350-$0
The course helps parents to identify the source of their child’s challenging behavior and learn what to do about it.
Includes video course with over 10 hours of content.
Register: https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07ejfr1u4k3a123eb9&oseq=&c=&ch=
Virginia Down Syndrome Association Education Conference Sat. Feb. 4, 9 am-4 pm, Hilton Richmond, in-person & virtual
There will be a variety of speakers and presentations on education and transition topics.
Register: https://virginiadsa.org/education-conference-2/ $50-$75
Building a Growth Mindset for Math — for 4th & 5th graders
Sat. Feb. 4, 1:30-3:00 pm, 6849 Old Dominion Dr. #200, McLean
The focus will be on how to use a growth mindset to shift our goal from "get it done fast" to "honor the process".
Building Strong Parent Advocates — Self-Paced Course
Mon. Feb. 6 to Sun. Feb. 26, 6 hours of content
Build a solid foundation to understand the special education process while being empowered to be your child’s best advocate.
Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/building-strong-parent-advocates-registration-470256438667
Parenting Education Class — in Spanish
Clase de educación para padres — para padres y sus hijos de 5 a 11 años
Lunes, 6 febrero a 22 mayo, 6-8 pm
Las familias aprenden qué esperar de los niños y cómo construir relaciones sólidas y positivas, manejar el estrés, y divertirse como familia.
Registrarse: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/familyservices/children-youth/parenting-education-programs Email ParentingEducation@fairfaxcounty.gov or phone Alba Quinones 703-324-7310
Say What? Early Communication and Conversation Without Words
Tues. Feb. 7, noon-1 pm OR 6:30-7:30 pm
Learn how early communication develops, practice conversation strategies, and discuss what it means for your non-speaking child.
Register for noon: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_HPTQQ4JbTJyxk3HslO6flg#/registration
Register for 6:30: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_bg8tXqLKR826d5KR03ScmA#/registration
More Than Sad —Training for Parents & Caring Adults
Tue. Feb. 7, 7:00-8:30 pm,
This program teaches caring adults about depression, demystifies treatment, and encourages those in need to seek help.
Register: https://ncacmts02072023.attendease.com
Early Identification of Learning Differences
Wed. Feb. 8, 3 pm
This webinar will help you capture those soft signs of learning differences before they become beacons. Action items included.
Register: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_iuKeph9-QcaJt3XiSWGqwQ
From Referral to Eligibility — in Spanish
De la referencia a la eligibilidad
Miércoles, los 8 de febrero, 7-8 pm
Conozca las etapas iniciales de la educación especial en Virginia.
Special Education Series — in Spanish
Serie De Educación Especial
Miércoles, 7:00-8:30 pm. Estas no serán grabadas.
¡Aquellos que asistan a más de tres talleres, podrán participar de una rifa y ganar una tarjeta de regalo de $50!
Febrero 8: De la Referencia a la Eligibilidad
Febrero 22: Dentro y Fuera de las Reuniones del IEP
Marzo 8: Diez cosas que debe saber sobre un IEP
Marzo 22: Cómo Hablar para que las Escuelas Escuchen (y Escuchar para que las Escuelas Hablen)
Registrarse: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_6X5XpNcAQWCkET2BhCU0CA#/registration
Practical Strategies To Help Our Children With Anxiety
Thu. Feb. 9, 9:00-10:15 am
Learn when and how to respond to anxiety in your child or teen, along with specific skills to use in the process.
Meet the Author Series: All Cats Are on the Autism Spectrum by Kathy Hoopmann
Thu. Feb. 9, 7-8 pm
Celebrate diversity with the author as she reads from her book and answers audience questions.
Register: https://www.fcps.edu/event/meet-author-series-all-cats-are-autism-spectrum-kathy-hoopmann?
Talk Saves Lives: An Introduction to LGBTQ+ Suicide Prevention
Thu. Feb. 9, 7-8 pm
Suicide can be prevented. Learn how by recognizing common risk factors and warning signs, and by learning appropriate responses.
Register: https://ncactsl02092023.attendease.com
What About Us? Keeping Foster and Adoptive Parents Connected
Thu. Feb. 9, 7:00-8:30 pm
Consider the distinct difficulties faced by foster and adoptive parents, and strategies to keep the partner relationship strong.
Neurodiversity at Elementary Schools: How Can Families Partner with Schools?
Thu. Feb. 10, 10:00-11:30 am
Partner with your child’s school to set your child up for success, and advocate for your child.
Register: https://www.fcps.edu/event/neurodiversity-elementary-schools-how-can-families-partner-schools?
Gratitude Shifts Everything — for parents
Sat. Feb. 11, 3:00-4:30 pm, online & at Service Source 10467 White Granite Ave. Oakton
Explore the benefits of gratitude, and how to use journaling as a way to capture your grateful moments.
Register: https://dsanv.salsalabs.org/GratitudeChangesEverythingFebruary11/index.html
The Essential Messages of Trauma Responsive Practices
Tue. Feb 14, 3:30-4:30 pm
Learn what it means to be trauma-informed and trauma-responsive, and how to apply these concepts for a child with a disability.
Register: https://vcurrtc.org/training/webcasts/webcastDetails.cfm/623
Virginia Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Conference
Tue. & Wed. Feb. 14-15, 9 am-3 pm, Glen Allen, VA
Topics will include cCMV screening, hearing screening, hearing loss, diagnostic testing, and family support and resources.
Register: https://web.cvent.com/event/169a6872-32bf-4fa5-b723-fc77e6aefe16/summary
Communication: A Foundation for Independence
Wed. Feb. 15, 10:00-11:30 am OR Wed. Feb. 15, 7:00-8:30 pm
Part of the ABA program in FCPS.
Access: https://meet.google.com/hbr-rdpx-pfx
Managing ADHD with Smart Children, Teens, and Young Adults on the Autism Spectrum
Wed. Feb. 15, 2 pm
Register: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Yy2VwxyZTjKzKUPrWWCyQA
Anatomy of an IEP
Wed. Feb. 15, 4:30-5:30 pm
Learn about the sequence and contents of the separate sections of an Individualized Educational Plan (IEP).
Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN__yegcDXfSJCGh9YYrVKevQ#/registration
What Should I Do Before My Child Grows Up? Future Planning for Elementary and Middle School Students in Special Education
Wed. Feb. 15, 6:30-8:30 pm, LJMS 3020 Gallows Rd. Falls Church
School is meant to prepare students for adult life. Learn how to guide that process. A student/parent panel is included.
REVIVE! Training — in Spanish
¡REANIMAR! Capacitación
Miér. 15 de febrero, 7-8 pm
Aprenda qué hacer en una situación de sobredosis, cómo administrar naloxona y qué hacer después. Se pueden proporcionar suministros.
Registrarse: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/community-services-board/heroin-opioids/revivm
Leading with Differences: Best Practices for Fostering Student Leadership in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging
Wed. Feb. 15, 7:00-8:30 pm
Learn best practices for fostering student leadership in the area of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
Register: https://labschool-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/9416612788599/WN_aIOVHG4TQ7GsbD2cC0OPZA
Choosing the Best Summer Camps for Your ADHD Child
Thu. Feb. 16, 1 pm
Learn what to look for in a summer program, the questions to ask, what to share about your child, common problems, and solutions.
Register: https://www.additudemag.com/webinar/best-sumer-camps-kids-adhd/?
Candid Conversations About The Experiences of Black Interracial Adoptees $0-$15 Coupon Code: CANDID
Thu. Feb, 16, 1:00-2:30 pm, with extended access
Learn about the common challenges and experiences facing Black interracial adoptees of all ages.
Relationshapes: A Program for Developing Healthy Relationships, Good Boundaries and Awesome Social Skills — for ages 12 and up with IDD. $100
Thursdays, Feb.16, 23, & Mar. 2, 9, 16, 30, 6:30-7:30 pm
Service Source 10467 White Granite Ave.Oakton
Students learn how to develop closer relationships with some people in their lives, while keeping others at a safe distance.
Register: https://dsanv.salsalabs.org/RELATIONSHAPES2023/index.html
Early Childhood Academy — For families of young children with disabilities
Thu. Feb. 17 to Fri. Mar. 31 — self paced course
Learn practical information to start early to help your child develop skills to be successful in life.
Register: https://peatc.org/event/early-childhood-academy-spring-2022/
Supporting Mental Health Through Play — Part 1
Fri. Feb. 17, 10:00-11:30 am
Discover the power of unstructured play in creating opportunities to build executive functioning skills for all children.
Register: https://www.fcps.edu/event/supporting-mental-health-through-play-part-1?
Ins and Outs of IEP Meetings — In Spanish
Dentro y fuera de las reuniones del IEP
Miércoles, 22 de febrero, 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/3gzOhq5
Intersection of ADHD and Anxiety
Wed. Feb. 22, 7-8:30 pm
Take this opportunity to share with and learn from other parents on this topic.
Register by Feb. 21: email BuildingStrongerFamilies@fairfaxcounty.gov or call 703-324-7720
Supporting Mental Health Through Play — Part 2
Fri. Feb. 24, 10:00-11:30 am
Learn about individual sensory processing needs and preferences and creating an environment where all young children can thrive.
Register: https://www.fcps.edu/event/supporting-mental-health-through-play-part-2?
Cecily’s Advocacy Conference
Sat. Feb. 25, 8 am-noon, McLean Sch. 8224 Lochinver Ln. Potomac, MD
Two keynotes, a workshop, and a panel discussion on connecting with our children and combating perfectionism.
Register: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdVdNQKcYEMdlmYNrPy7Y2tXuncGElHOYfopOe4mdB6f88gtQ/viewform
Talk Saves Lives: An Introduction to Suicide Prevention
Sun. Feb. 26, 4-5 pm
Suicide can be prevented. Learn how by recognizing common risk factors and warning signs, and by learning appropriate responses.
Register: https://ncactsl02262023.attendease.com
Youth Mental Health First Aid — Course for Adults
Tue. Feb. 28, 9:00 am-3:30 pm, $25
Learn the risk factors and warning signs of mental health challenges in youth, their potential impact, and how to respond.
Register:https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/hscode/ereg/Registration.aspx?groupID=47
Save the Date — FCPS Special Education Conference
Sat. Apr. 29
This virtual conference will be a combination of live and recorded sessions. Registration will begin in April.
Info: https://www.fcps.edu/Special-Education-Conference
Ongoing and On Demand
Two 9-1-1 Pre-Notification Programs Are Now Available
Both allow prior registration so that first responders will be aware of the special needs of individuals at the scene.
Fairfax County Emergency Health Profiles
https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/911/emergency-health-profile
Ongoing medical and behavioral health conditions can be included, along with emergency contact information.
Fairfax County Community Connect
https://www.communityconnect.io/info/va-fairfax-county
The special needs of individuals, and information about pets and your residence can be included with emergency contacts.
Back-to-School ADHD Master Class — Self-Guided Course
This 10-part multimedia course has modules on accommodations, executive functions, behavior challenges, learning differences, etc.
Register: https://www.additudemag.com/download/adhd-school-master-class-ceus-teachers-parents/?
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/?
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
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 Parents and Caregivers meets on the 2nd Wednesday of the month, 7-8 pm via Zoom. https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9466001682#success 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: https://www.parentchildjourney.com/excursions/
Embark in the DC Metro Parent Support Group is for parents of children and youth with mental health challenges. It meets virtually on alternate Thursdays, noon-1 pm. Register: https://www.embarkbh.com/event/dc-metro-virtual-parent-support-group/
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 hosts 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 educación y apoyo a padres en español 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
El Grupo de apoyo ASNV para padres y cuidadores en español se reúne el segundo sábado de cada mes de 1 a 2 pm en ServiceSource, 10467 White Granite Dr. Oakton. Estacione en la parte de atrás. Para obtener más información, envíe un correo electrónico a info@asnv.org
Hablemos educación especial es un grupo de discusión de padres de habla hispana y de un estudiante autista. Se reúnen virtualmente el primer miércoles de cada mes de 7:00-7:45 pm Registrarse: https://xminds.org/event-4522635
Infinity ABA Parent Connect, for families with a child with autism, meets online on the 2nd Thursday monthly at 7:00-8:30 pm. Guest speakers, discussions, and resources. Register: https://www.infinityaba.com/events/
Kinship Café meets online 6:30-8:00 pm the 1st Wednesday of the month for those raising the children of relatives and friends. To attend, call 703-324-7720 or email BuildingStrongerFamilies@fairfaxcounty.gov .
Military Families Support Group meets the 3rd Tuesday monthly at 7-8 pm for families of all disabled dependents. Access: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9466001682#success OR Email director@asnv.org for details
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
Parent Support for Raising Children with FASD
Monthly on the 3rd Monday, Oct. 17 through Mar. 20, 1-2 pm.
This 6-month group will focus on raising a child with a fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD).
Register: Email Carey Tompkins, tompkinscounseling@gmail.com your name and a brief explanation of your interest in the group.
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) Support Group meets the 1st Saturday monthly at 10:00-11:30 am at the Richard Byrd Library in Springfield. RSVP to supportgroup@poac-nova.org to attend.
People of the Global Majority is a discussion group for BIPOC parents of children with autism. They meet virtually on the 1st Monday monthly at 7:00-7:45 pm. Register: https://xminds.org/event-4534279
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 health
Small Steps Together is a discussion group for parents of preschool and elementary children with autism. They meet virtually on the 4th Monday monthly at 7:00-7:45 pm. Register: https://xminds.org/event-4778134
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 .
