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/
Plan Ahead — Dads Parenting Group — in Spanish
Planifique con anticipación — Grupo de crianza de papás
Miércoles, 5 de abril al 28 de junio, 6:30-8:30 pm
Mejora tus habilidades de papá con actividades grupales, debates, comidas, recursos y camaradería.
Pre-Registrarse: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/familyservices/children-youth/father-engagement
Plan Ahead — Wrightslaw Education Law and Advocacy training
Mon. & Tue. Apr. 11 & 12, 9 am-noon, $165 includes 3 books
Learn about special education law, rights, tests and measurements, SMART IEPs, and advocacy.
Register by March 31: https://peatc.org/event/wrightslaw-special-education-law-and-advocacy-training/
Plan Ahead — Parents of Challenging Children: Preschool through Early Adolescence $350-$0
Thursdays, April 13-June 9, 8-9 pm, includes video course
This discussion course helps parents to identify the source of their child’s challenging behavior and learn what to do about it.
Register: http://www.parentchildjourney.com/journey/
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
Building Strong Parent Advocates — Self-Paced Course
Apr. 3 to Apr. 23, 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-
Dads Parenting Group — in Spanish
Grupo de crianza de papás
Miércoles, 5 de abril al 28 de junio, 6:30-8:30 pm
Mejora tus habilidades de papá con actividades grupales, debates, comidas, recursos y camaradería.
Pre-Registrarse: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/familyservices/children-youth/father-engagement
Tech Team Thursday
Thu. Apr. 6, noon
Learn about a free service that creates custom apps to help your child with activities of daily living and safety.
Register: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMtce6qqD8jHNz6UyPkRgItKT7nmk3ecB6h
Military Benefits, Retirement, and Financial Planning
Fri. Apr. 7, 10:00-11:30 am
Gain strategies to coordinate financial planning for a family member with a disability with military and retirement benefits.
Register: https://thearcofnovatrust.org/event/fffp-april-7-2023-military-benefits/
Autism and Pica
Wed. Apr. 12, 1 pm
Learn about pica, the ingestion of non-food substances, and possible approaches to treatment.
Register: https://www.autism.org/autism-pica/
Talk Saves Lives
Thu. Apr. 13, 7-8 pm
Suicide can be prevented. Learn how by recognizing common risk factors and warning signs, and by learning appropriate responses.
Register: https://ncactsl04132023.attendease.com
Parents of Challenging Children: Preschool through Early Adolescence Thursdays, April 13-June 9, 8-9 pm, includes video course
This course helps parents to identify the source of their child’s challenging behavior and learn what to do about it. $350-$0
Register: http://www.parentchildjourney.com/journey/
Sibshops — For Siblings (in Grades 2-6) of a Child with Special Needs
Fri. Apr. 14, 9 am-noon, Providence CC 3001 Vaden Dr. Fairfax
Siblings share experiences and receive peer support in a relaxed setting with fun games and activities.
ADHD and Abstract Goals: A Motivational Roadmap to Meaningful Success
Fri, Apr. 14, 7:30-9:00 pm, with replay link
Explore how to help children use their talents and interests to set goals and create action plans that work!
FANtastic Times Welcome Back Event
Sat. Apr. 15, 10 am-noon, Sully CC 13800 Wall Rd. Herndon
Sat. Apr. 15, 2-4 pm, Lorton CC 9520 Richmond Hwy. Lorton
This is a drop-in program for individuals with autism to explore the new sensory spaces, and try hands-on activities.
Information: NCS-Tracers@fairfaxcounty.gov
First Responder Safety Fair
Sat. Apr. 15, 11 am-2:pm, 200 S Carlin Springs Rd. Arlington
Individuals with a disability can practice interacting with first responders, including a traffic stop or learning CPR.
Register: https://thearcofnova.org/events/first-responder-safety-fair/
More Than Sad —Training for Parents & Caring Adults
Tue. Apr. 18, 7:00-8:30 pm, 4-6 pm,
This program teaches caring adults about depression, demystifies treatment, and encourages those in need to seek help.
Register: https://ncacmts04182023.attendease.com
The Importance of Generalization
Wed. Apr. 19, 10:00-11:30 am OR 7:00-8:30 pm
Presented by the FCPS Applied Behavior Analysis Program.
Transition Lunch & Learn
Wed. Apr. 19, noon-1:30 pm
Discover the advantages of ABLE accounts and the national ABLEnow program.
Register: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJcqcOuurjsjHtHPVysnNwEhc3ZXUUZsrn_A
Federal Employee Benefits and Their Impact on Adults with Disabilities
Thu. Apr. 20, 11 am
Hear from expert attorneys about how to make the best use of federal employee benefits and disability services.
Register: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_F-9R1s27T7G2GR-RBQ1Fmg
Unpacking Autism: The Impact of Understanding
Thu. Apr. 20, 1:00-2:30 pm, with extended access Coupon Code AUTISM
Get a better understanding of neurodiversity and how to be a supporter and ally of people with ASD. $15-$0
Register: https://adoptionsupport.org/event/syf-webinar-unpacking-autism-the-impact-of-understanding/
ABCs of Behavior
Thu. Apr. 20, 5:30-7:00 pm
Gain strategies to address unwanted behavior and an understanding of functional behavior assessments and behavior intervention plans.
Register: https://peatc.org/event/abcs-of-behavior-3/
Plan Ahead — Spring Forward Family Fun Day $0-$25
Sat. Apr. 22, 8:30 am-2:00 pm, GMU Sci.and Tech. Campus, Prince William
Families formed by adoption, foster, or kinship care will have age appropriate fun for kids and expert sessions for parents. Some scholarships.
Register before April 1 for early bird pricing: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/spring-forward-foster-adoptive-kinship-family-fun-day-tickets-541292318897
Talk Saves Lives
Sun. Apr. 23, 4-5 pm
Suicide can be prevented. Learn how by recognizing common risk factors and warning signs, and by learning appropriate responses.
Register: https://ncactsl04232023.attendease.com
Needs, Wants, Wishes, and Dreams
Tue. Apr. 25,10 am-noon, 2755 Hartland Rd. #200 Falls Church
Join us virtually or in-person to share, learn, laugh, cry if need be and find support for your needs, wants, wishes and dreams.
Register: https://arcofnva.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/arcofnva/eventRegistration.jsp?event=8154
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/?
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 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
Autism Society of NoVA padres y proveedores de cuidado del grupo de apoyo en españo 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 director@asnv.org .
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
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
Grupo de apoyo para madres de habla hispana de niños con autismo se reúne mensualmente en línea y está patrocinado por Johns Hopkins Medical Center. Contacto: mariposas.autismo@gmail.com
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 .
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
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 Connection Support Group for Young Adults (18-36) meets on the 3rd Tuesday monthly, 7:30-9:00 pm. Register: email youngadults.nami.nova@gmail.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) Support Group meets in-person the 1st Saturday monthly at 10:00-11:30 am. RSVP to supportgroup@poac-nova.org to learn the current location.
Parents of Autistic Teens meets some Sat. of each month. Contact: Maria Dubuc 703-970-3676 or Admin@ASNV.org
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
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 .
