Parent Information Relating to Special Education

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/

New Mental Health Services for Youth Available

Short-term, solution-focused treatment (8-10 sessions) and care coordination with peer support now available for follow-up care. Contact:  https://www.jssa.org/healthymindsfairfax/  $ varies

Mental Health Peer-Run Warm Line — in Spanish

Línea cálida de salud mental dirigida por pares

Este servicio es para personas que buscan recursos de salud mental o para quienes se preocupan por ellos.

Llama o envía un mensaje de texto 1-866-400-MHAV (6428)

GWU/GMU Autism Research Study — for ages 5-17

Participants play child-friendly computer games while their gaze and brain function is tracked. $90 for participation.

Apply:  email Chelsea Armour aarmour@childrensnational.org or andilab@email.gwu.edu

Plan Ahead — Collaborative & Proactive Solutions 1 or 2 Day(s) 

Thu. Jan. 12 & Fri. Jan. 13, 9:45 am-5:15 pm  $119-$199

Gain an overview of the Collaborative & Proactive Solutions model including the use of assessments and problem solving.

Register:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/collaborative-and-proactive-solutions-2-day-virtual-training-registration-421369777347

Using the IEP as a Launch Pad

Thu. Jan. 5, 11 am

Learn how to identify and focus on the parts of the IEP that can align to your child’s future career and personal goals. 

Register:  https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Jc_OUnorRxekiCMIaz_wNw

How to Combat Procrastination in the New Year

Thu, Jan. 5, 1 pm

Consider why and how ADHD is related to a personal procrastination pattern, and how to decrease triggers.

Register:  https://www.additudemag.com/webinar/stop-procrastinating-setting-goals-adhd/

 

ABLE Accounts and Special Needs Trusts
Fri. Jan. 6, 10:00-11:30 am
Learn about these two programs to determine which would be helpful for your family’s situation due to a disability.
Register:  https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Wy0ger7hTvO_eRsfMESxOg

IEP University (IEPU) — Self-Paced Course

Mon. Jan. 9 to Sun. Jan. 29, with access 24/7

Get accurate and useful information about IEP development and meetings including many practical strategies. 

Register::  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/iep-university-iepu-registration-468699381467

Family Math Week

Mon. Jan. 9-Fri. Jan. 13

Enjoy games and stories that delight all ages, and work toward our goal of 1 MILLION minutes!

Access:  https://www.mindresearch.org/fcps-math-week?

Finding the Fuel for Learning & Emotional Well-Being 

Tue. Jan. 10, 3:30-4:30 pm 

A review of the science of learning will be followed by a discussion of the need to measure and enhance learner engagement.

Register:  https://vcurrtc.org/training/webcasts/webcastDetails.cfm/616

Understanding IEPs v. 504 Plans v. Service Plans and Accommodations v. Modifications:  What Supports Are Right for Your Child?

Tue. Jan. 10, 7 pm, Spanish interpretation available

Learn about education support plans and examples of accommodations and modifications  for students with autism. 

Register:  https://xminds.org/event-5050686

Worried Parents, Anxious Kids: How to Help Your Student Manage Anxiety and Improve School Performance

Tue. Jan. 10, 7 pm, with replay link

Gain practical strategies to improve parent-child communication and learn about the SPACE parent-based treatment program.

Register:  https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/4116709457090/WN_97IKYP-yTcaAYAgQ76oTXw

Strengthening Families - for parents and tweens — in Spanish

Familias Fuertes — Grupo de padres y jóvenes (10-15 años) 

Cada miércoles 6-9 pm, 11 de enero al 22 de febrero, Falls Church HS 7521 Jaguar Trail, Falls Church

Las familias pueden volverse más unidas y felices a través de discusiones, juegos, dramatizaciones y proyectos familiares.  Cuidado de niños, cena, y sorteos incluidos.

Registrarse:  https://scanfamilies.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Jan-2023-SF-flyer_falls-church-high.pdf

Responding to Your Child’s Resistance to Learning

Wed. Jan. 11, 7 pm

Learn the causes of resistance to learning and strategies for new ways of communicating to support children learning at home.

Register:  https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_OUWRPfGcT6e5LWvaMlvUKg?

Pregnancy & Human Reproduction 

Thu. Jan, 12, 6-7 pm,   — for Youth with IDD ages 14-22

This training is designed to increase a youth’s capacity for self-advocacy, decision-making, and personal safety.

Register:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/youth-sexual-health-and-wellness-upcoming-virtual-sessions-registration-481673377037

Neurodiversity: What Do You Mean We are All Neurodiverse?

Thu. Jan. 12, 6:30 pm, OR Fri. Jan. 13, 10 am

Consider the relationship between neurodiversity and student engagement.   How can we increase inclusion for all students 

Register:  https://www.fcps.edu/resources/family-engagement/parent-resource-center/register-free-workshops-parent-resource-center

Anxiety in Children and Adolescents    

Thu. Jan. 12 & 19, 7-8 pm, with on demand video course

Live discussion will include: diagnosis, cognitive-behavioral therapy, parent accommodation reduction and more.    $200-$0

Register:  https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07ejfr1u4i4a0914bf&oseq=&c=&ch=

Talk Saves Lives

Thu. Jan. 12, 8-9 pm

Suicide can be prevented. Learn how by recognizing common risk factors and warning signs, and by learning appropriate responses. 

Register: https://ncactsl01122023.attendease.com

ADHD Management Parent Group          $200-$0

Thu. Jan. 12 & 19, 8:15-9:15 pm, with on demand video course

Live discussion will include: how and why to do a medication trial, managing side effects, uneven coverage, and discontinuation trials. 

Register:  https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07ejfr1u4g08f96adb&oseq=&c=&ch=

Executive Functioning Challenges for ASD Students

Fri. Jan. 13, noon-1 pm

We will answer your questions and offer practical ideas to strengthen executive function skills.  Spanish Interpretation will be available

Register:  https://xminds.org/event-5053939

Ice Skating Get Together for Adoptive Families  

Sat. Jan. 14, noon-3:45 pm, Fairfax Ice Arena 3779 Pickett Rd.

Fairfax

Up to five free tickets will be available for each family with adopted children ages 0-18. (Register once per family.) 

Register:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/npac-family-ice-skating-respite-tickets-476543513477

SKS Art with Youth Creativity Workshop
Sun. Jan. 15, 2:00-3:30 pm, Reston Lib. 11925 Bowman Towne Dr. Reston
So Kids SOAR welcomes youth and young adults (ages 8 to 30) with disabilities of any type to make winter themed crafts.

Register:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sks-art-with-youth-creativity-project-tickets-475660030957?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

Strengthening Families - for parents and tweens — in Spanish

Familias Fuertes — Grupo de padres y jóvenes (10-15 años) 

Cada martes, 6-9 pm, 17 de enero al 28 de febrero, Fairfax HS 3501 Lion Run, Fairfax 

Las familias pueden volverse más unidas y felices a través de discusiones, juegos, dramatizaciones y proyectos familiares.  Cuidado de niños, cena, y sorteos incluidos.

Registrarse:  https://scanfamilies.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Jan-2023-SF-flyer_fairfax-high.pdf

Addressing Challenges Faced by Students with an FASD Diagnosis

Tue. Jan. 17, 7-8 pm

A panel of experts and researchers will discuss FASD characteristics, parenting strategies, and educational resources.

Register:  https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwucOCsqzkqH92OD-DYqtuFpILCwiqsr6lb

Steps for Systematically Teaching New Behaviors

Wed. Jan. 18, 10:00-11:30 am, OR 7:00-8:30 pm  

Learn strategies for how skills are broken down into small, discrete steps and taught systematically.

Access:  https://www.fcps.edu/academics/academic-overview/special-education-instruction/applied-behavior-analysis-aba-program

Youth Mental Health First Aid — Course for Adults

Wed. & Thur. Jan. 18 &19, 1:00-4:30 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

Parents and Caregivers:  The Importance of Self-Care

Wed. Jan. 18, 1 pm 

The focus will be on self-care for adult caregivers supporting people with special needs, including autism. 

Register:  https://www.autism.org/self-care/

The Power of Engaging Families
Wed. Jan. 18, 5:30-6:30 pm
Parents will explore their thoughts on “family engagement” and how educators share the responsibility for student success.

Register:  https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Twl3qgrPQ_KOS7UqNHVQ2w#/registration

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The Big Step: Early Intervention to Preschool

Wed. Jan. 18, 6:30 pm

Learn what to expect, tips for success, and the roles of educators, coordinators, and parents in ensuring a smooth transition for your child.

Register:  https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_s14PPAF2QmaK1a4KrPZMtw#/registration

Excited and Engaged: Strategies and Solutions for Social Anxiety in Children and Teens with ADHD

Wed. Jan. 18, 7 pm

Gain strategies to improve your child’s conversational skills, and ability to initiate. Foster friendships, and increase your child’s self-esteem.

Register: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_G2Aw9fc3RdOnPJjzW1Q-4w

Proactive Strategies To Prevent Reactive Parenting

Thu. Jan. 19, 9 am

Gain ways to create greater predictability for family life, more effective communication with your children, and skills in preventing problems.

Register:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/proactive-strategies-to-prevent-reactive-parenting-tickets-479289657267

ADHD Medication Options and Benefits for Children

Thu. Jan. 19, 1 pm, with replay link

Learn more about the many effective medications for ADHD including how to manage side effects.

Register:  https://www.additudemag.com/webinar/benefits-of-adhd-medication-children/?

Mind/Body Practices for Hope and Healing

Thu. Jan. 19, 1:00-2:30 pm    $15-$0  Coupon Code: HOPE

This experiential workshop invites participants to engage in whole-body practices and learn self-care tools that are easy and cost effective. 

Register:  https://adoptionsupport.org/event/syf-webinar-mind-body-practices-for-hope-and-healing/

Supported Decision-Making in Special Education – Start Early!

Thu Jan. 19, 6:30-7:30 pm

Learn what supported decision-making is, why it’s important, and how it can have a positive impact on your child’s present and future.

Register:  https://peatc.org/event/supported-decision-making-in-special-education-start-early/

Social-Emotional Milestones in Early Childhood

Fri. Jan. 20, 10:00-11:30 am

Learn about these early milestones, ways to support this growth, and concepts of attachment, temperament, and self-regulation.

Register:  https://www.fcps.edu/resources/family-engagement/parent-resource-center/register-free-workshops-parent-resource-center

Thank Goodness It’s Finan¢ial Fitne$$ Friday
Fri. Jan. 20, 10:00-11:30 am
Certified financial professionals will answer your questions regarding financial futures planning.

Register:  https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0sdu-spjIsH9UASyf5_p19JGkHucb3qRdA

Positive Parenting Class -- in Spanish

Clase de Paternidad Positiva — para padres de niños de 0 a 6 años

Sábado, 21 de enero, 9 am-3 pm, 13505 Hillendale Dr, Woodbridge

Se siente preocupado por el comportamiento de su hijo?  Padres aprenderán técnicas positivas de como lidiar con comportamientos difíciles, y como manejar el estrés.

Registrarse:  https://formedfamiliesforward.org/clase-de-paternidad-positiva/

Nurturing Parenting Class —For families with children ages 5-11 

Tuesdays, Jan. 24, to May 9, 6-8 pm
Families increase their empathy, find new ways to foster appropriate behavior, build self-esteem, and learn to have fun together.  

Register:   email buildingstrongerfamilies@fairfaxcounty.gov or phone  Lisa Payne-Chesley 703-324-7720 

Morning Meeting and Responsive Advisory Meeting: Building Positive Classroom Communities through Social and Emotional Learning

Tue. Jan.  24, 10:00-11:30 am

Learn how teachers are using these practices to engage students in ways that are challenging, appropriate, and supportive of the whole child.

Register:  https://www.fcps.edu/resources/family-engagement/parent-resource-center/register-free-workshops-parent-resource-center

New Year, New Strategies: Helping Students with ADHD Plan, Persist, and Achieve Their Goals

Tue. Jan. 24, 1 pm, with replay link
Gain ways to help resistant kids plan ahead, stay organized, and overcome roadblocks to achieve what they set out to do .

Register:  https://www.additudemag.com/webinar/school-goals-strategies-routines-adhd-student/?

Parenting Education Class for parents and their children age 5-11

Tuesdays, Jan. 24 to May 9, 6-8 pm

Families learn what to expect from children and how to build strong positive relationships, handle stress, and have fun as a family.

Register:  https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/familyservices/children-youth/parenting-education-programs email ParentingEducation@fairfaxcounty.gov or phone 

Lisa Payne-Chesley 703-324-7734 

Dispute Resolution Options in Virginia

Tue. Jan. 24, 6:30 pm

Learn about your options, how they work, and when it may be best to use each one. The more you know, the more prepared you can be.

Register:  https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN__erZiZHLSMueSfN6aR9k0w#/registration

Anxiety Busters for Anxious Moments

Tue. Jan. 24, 7:00-8:30 pm

Gain a handful of tools to help your child develop the emotional hardware to handle anxiety and focus instead on what really matters.

Register:  https://thesycamoreschoolva.org/event/anxiety-busters-for-anxious-moments/

Interdisciplinary Diagnosis and Interventions for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD)

Tue. Jan. 24, 7-8 pm

Consider the benefits of an interdisciplinary diagnosis for FASD and evidence-based interventions that can improve outcomes. 

Register:  https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZclc–orzItHtSvV4jCGitRrKPYXR0CCNdI

Virtual Family Game Night – for Adoptive Families

Wed. Jan. 25, 5:30-7:30 pm

Open to adopted children, ages 0-17, and their family.

The first 10 families to register will receive dinner.

Register:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/npac-virtual-game-night-tickets-450848980437

Self-Regulated Learners: Helping Kids Grow Their Own Executive Skills

Wed. Jan. 25, 7:30-9:00 pm, $15

Learn how to transition from being your child’s frontal lobes to helping them grow their own executive skills.

Register:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/helping-kids-grow-their-own-executive-skills-tickets-483930748897

LCPS Mental Health and Wellness Conference — Save the Date

Sat. Jan. 28, 8:30 am-12:30 pm, Lightridge HS 41025 Collaboration Dr. Aldie

A resource fair and presentations by school, community, and regional experts will be available via multiple breakout sessions.


Broken Resolutions? How Students with ADHD Can Achieve Academic Success in  2023 Without Lofty New Year’s Goals

Tue. Jan. 31, 8 pm

Think concretely in small steps to create routines, build organizational skills, communicate for mutual understanding, and build trust.

Register:  https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_7GuUupURTu-KOwe45rqEeQ

Substance Use Disorder and ADHD: Safe, Effective Treatment Options

Tue. Jan. 31, 1 pm, with replay link

Learn about ADHD and substance use disorders, as well as treatment options for people with ADHD and a history of substance abuse.

Register:  https://www.additudemag.com/webinar/substance-use-disorder-recovery-adhd-treatment/?

Preventing Secondary Characteristics of FASD: What Does the Research Say? 

Tue. Jan. 31, 7-8 pm

Distinguish between the primary and secondary characteristics of fetal alcohol syndrome disorder, and learn how to avoid or minimize the latter.

Register:  https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYufu2rrT0rG9OsPbN2ghoEI7xCTTQXaBwL

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.

Register:  https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/familyservices/children-youth/father-engagement

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 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: Join our new CHAT GROUP 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

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

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

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 military 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 10:30 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 .