SEPTA | Parent Information Relating to Special Education for January

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.

Ongoing and On Demand events and courses follow this monthly list of events.

When other events are announced they will be posted with these at:  https://fairfaxcountysepta.org/upcoming-community-events/

January 

Civil Rights Protections Against Retaliation

This new resource was recently released by the U.S. Dept. of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR):

http://t1.info.ed.gov/r/?id=h1d6eedc,18abdea,18b79b3 

For more information or to file a complaint: https://ocrcas.ed.gov

Plan Ahead — DMV Connect

Mon. Jan. 13, 9:30 am-2:45 pm, 3060 Williams Dr. #300, Fairfax

A Virginia Dept.of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Connect team will be at the Arc and equipped to conduct most DMV transactions.

Pre-Register:  https://thearcofnova.org/event/dmv-connect/

Plan Ahead Wrightslaw Special Education Law and Advocacy Training

Tue. & Wed. March 18 &19, 9 am-noon each day

Learn about special education law, rights, tests and measurements, SMART IEPs, and advocacy.   

Register by Jan. 15 for Early Bird price $130https://peatc.org/event/wrightslaw-special-education-law-and-advocacy-training-2/?  


Note: Several Fairfax County parenting classes are included in this list because many families with children with disabilities benefit from every ounce of wisdom to best care for their children.

Plan Ahead — Active Parenting Class —Families of children age 0-4 

Wednesdays, Jan. 15 to Apr. 29, 6-8 pm

Learn nurturing parenting routines, how to recognize emotions, child development, and infant massage, and build self-esteem. 

Register:   email:  buildingstrongerfamilies@fairfaxcounty.gov or phone  Augustina Bravo 703-324-7737  

Active Parenting Class —In Spanish

Planifique con anticipación Crianza activa en español — para familias con niños 0-4 años

Martes, 21 de enero a 30 de abril, 6-8 pm

Aprenda rutinas de crianza enriquecedoras, cómo reconocer las emociones, el desarrollo infantil y los masajes infantiles, y desarrollar la autoestima.

Registrarse:    buildingstrongerfamilies@fairfaxcounty.gov o telefonear Sammy Zeballos 703-324-3532   

Plan Ahead — African American Culturally-Focused Parenting Class

Wednesdays, Feb. 2 to May 14, 5:30-8:00 pm, Gum Springs CC, Alexandria

This class emphasizes African American history, culture, and traditions.  All family members have age-appropriate activities. 

Pre-Register:  https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/familyservices/community-corner/giving-parents-the-right-tools-african-american-parenting-classes-and-dads-parenting-groups?

Plan Ahead — Dads Parenting Group

Tuesdays, Feb. 6 to Apr. 26, 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

Plan Ahead — I’m Determined Youth and Family Summit

Tue.-Thu. June 10-12, James Madison Univ. Harrisonburg, VA

Youth (age 14-18) with disabilities and parents will meet to network, discuss issues and learn about self-determination.

Application due Jan 12: https://imdetermined.org/annual-youth-family-summit/

Building Independence with the TFIL Team

Thu. Jan 2, noon-1 pm

Learn how the Arc2Independence app can be customized to help your student navigate daily routines and challenges. 

Register:  https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMtce6qqD8jHNz6UyPkRgItKT7nmk3ecB6h#/registration

Metro Travel Training

Fri. Jan. 3, 10 am to -12:30 pm, Dunn Loring-Merrifield Metro Station. 

This is a practice trip on the metro for an individual with a disability and a designated adult. Metro card included.

Register:  https://forms.zohopublic.com/dmonnig/form/TheArcsMetroTripRegistrationForm2024/formperma/wcuMB7t4QAQu8aAPQlWtR722AoacGlLxcJsQFAIJvQ0

 

Medication for Struggling Children and Adolescents

Tuesdays, 10-11 am

Jan. 7, Medication for ADHD

Jan. 14, Medication for anxiety

Jan. 21, Medication for depression and severe irritability

Includes a 10-session video course followed by one or more of the live discussion sessions,  $ varies

Register:  https://www.parentchildjourney.com/excursions/

Small Wins Add Up: How to Build New Habits in 2025

Tue.  Jan. 7, 1 pm, with replay link 

If ADHD runs in your family, consider how to take manageable steps to improve life for your whole family.

Register:  https://www.additudemag.com/webinar/small-wins-new-habits-adhd-new-year/

Special Education Webinar Series — in Spanish

Serie de educación especial — en español

Cada taller: 6:30-7:45 pm 

Enero 7: Comprensión de la Educación Especial

Enero 21: De la Referencia a la Eligibilidad

Febrero 4: Dentro y Fuera de las Reuniones del IEP

Febrero 18: Diez cosas que debe saber sobre un IEP

Marzo 25: ¡Su Voz Vale!

Aquellos que asistan a más de tres talleres, podrán participar de una rifa y ganar una tarjeta de regalo de $50!

Registrarse:  https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Cb1EoNatRsiVaoTGaiNlWw#/registration

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Webinar Series

Tuesdays, Jan. 7-28, 7-8 pm

Learn about this under- or mis-diagnosed disability, and how to support affected children at home or in school.

Register:  https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/2025-fff-fasd-winter-webinar-series

Understanding FASD as a Brain-Based Disability

Tue. Jan. 7, 7-8 pm

Gain an overview of FASD characteristics, variability, diagnosis, and the strengths of affected youth. 

Register:  https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/2025-fff-fasd-winter-webinar-series

Perspective:  Adult Sibling with Profound ASD

Wed. Jan. 8, 1 pm

Join us for a sibling perspective as an physician shares her journey as a legal guardian, caregiver, and advocate for a loved one. 

Register:  https://autism.org/perspective-adult-sibling-with-profound-asd/

Extended School Year (ESY):  A Guide for Families

Wed. Jan. 8, 6-7 pm

Learn about ESY services for students with IEPs, including the purpose, decision process, and the types of services.

Register:  https://pwcs-zm-edu.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_VuTQQIA3SL-9EmxkzU_R_Q#/registration

What Is PDA?  Exploring the Autism Profile Everyone’s Talking About

Wed. Jan. 8, 7:00-8:30 pm

Learn about PDA: a Persistent Drive for Autonomy, and how students with  this profile can be supported at home and school.

Register: https://xminds.org/event-5971138

Chantilly (HS) Academy Open House

Wed. Jan. 8, 6-8 pm, 4201 Stringfellow Rd. Chantilly 

Learn about career and technical education classes in health sciences, auto tech, construction, ROTC, Korean, marketing, engineering, cyber/IT, firefighting, and human services.

Information:  https://chantillyacademy.fcps.edu

Transition Lunch & Learn

Thu. Jan. 9, noon-1:30 pm 

Plan for the transition to adult services by learning about supports for employment, transportation, recreation, and day services.  

Register;  https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMvcuGuqjktHNz9913p6Nhk7vo6UKymiSFe#/registration

.

Opioid Overdose & Naloxone Education Training

Thu, Jan. 9, 1 pm & other 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

Building Friendships for Middle & High School Students

Thu. Jan. 9, 6:30-8:00 pm, 13505 Hillendale Dr. Woodbridge 

Both students and parents are welcome to attend this presentation on ways to build lasting friendships for those with IDD/DD.

Register:  https://www.pwcs.edu/academics___programs/special_education/parent_resource_center/events/index

From Graduation to Greatness: Learn How a Gap Year will Enhance Your Teen’s Growth Trajectory

Thu. Jan. 9, 7-8 pm

Consider the benefits of a gap year, whether it might be a good fit for your teen, and how to plan for it.

Register:  https://thesycamoreschoolva.org/event/seth-kessler-lee-sosin-gapwell/

Parents of Challenging Adolescents

Thursdays, 7-8 pm      $ varies

Jan. 9, Avoiding Power Struggles

Jan. 16, Working with Your Adolescent

Jan. 23, Behavioral Strategies

Includes 10 session video course followed by live discussion sessions. 

Register:  https://www.parentchildjourney.com/excursions/

Talk Saves Lives:  An introduction to Suicide Prevention

Thu. Jan. 9, 7-8 pm

Suicide can be prevented. Learn how to recognize common risk factors and warning signs, and learn how to respond. 

Register:  https://ncactsl01092025.attendease.com

Falls Church (HS) Academy Open House

Thu. Jan. 9, 6-9 pm, 7521 Jaguar Trail, Falls Church

Learn about career and technical education classes in criminal justice, biotechnology, American Sign Language, Vietnamese, and health sciences.

Information:  https://fallschurchacademy.fcps.edu

Examining an Employment Planning Tool for Students with Significant Support Needs

Thu. Jan. 9, 1:00-2:45 pm,

Consider a way to assist students with significant support needs in connecting to employment while in high school.

Register:  https://vcurrtc.org/training/webcasts/webcastDetails.cfm/1703

Help! My Kid Won't Go To School! Addressing Chronic Absenteeism in Schools 

Fri. Jan. 10, 10:00-11:30 am  

Learn about the root causes of school refusal, and how to set supportive boundaries at home. 

Register:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfeaDqZPS2t2xZij26RsWpP-Kaq7z7FevppBy-zfAvybMWuNA/viewform?

Sibshops — For Siblings (in Grades 2-6) of a Child with Special Needs

Sat. Jan. 11, 9 am-noon, 3001 Vaden Dr. Fairfax 

Siblings share experiences and receive peer support in a relaxed setting with fun games and activities. 

Register:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1Kc00Zc0NQsdKafabdmm_L89ogkxIhHbVAeSl63umhsk/viewform?

Next Steps: College, Careers and Beyond 

Sat. Jan. 11, 9:00 am-12:30 pm, 21000 Educ. Ct Ashburn

Prepare early for life after graduation by gaining information and resources.  Vendor fair 11:00 am-12:30 pm.

Register:  https://www.collegesteps.org/calendar-main

Cooking Club with Arc2Independence

Sat. Jan. 11, 10 am-1 pm, 3060 Williams Dr. #300, Fairfax

Learn to use the app, Arc2Independence, to guide students step-by-step through instructional cooking.  $25

Register:  https://forms.zohopublic.com/dmonnig/form/TFILHolidayCookingClass24/formperma/wCEYgz-v-UWke8FOMEASo-vnU-aFps4LAKWtkuqE29Y

How to Talk So Schools Will Listen (and Listen so Schools Will Talk)

Fri. Jan. 11, 10 am-noon, Lorton Library, Lorton

Discover communication techniques, recognize and

prevent barriers to communication, and build agreements.

Register:  https://bit.ly/49A0vsX 

FCPS Math Week

Mon-Fri. Jan. 13-17,

Enjoy a  full week of  stories, games, and math activities in English and Spanish for families with students in K-6.

Access:  mindresearch.org/fcps-math-week

DMV Connect

Mon. Jan. 13, 9:30 am-2:45 pm, 3060 Williams Dr. #300, Fairfax

A Virginia Dept.of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Connect team will be at the Arc and equipped to conduct most DMV transactions.

Pre-Register:  https://thearcofnova.org/event/dmv-connect/

Building Strong Parent Advocates Self-Paced Course

Mon. Jan. 13 to Feb. 3, 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://peatc.org/event/building-strong-parent-advocates-14/?

IEP University (IEPU) — Self-Paced Course

Mon. Jan. 13, to Feb. 3, with access 24/7
Get accurate and useful information about IEP (Individualized Educational Program) development, including practical strategies. 

Register:: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/peatc/1467918?

Use Your Words: Getting Community & School Supports in Early Childhood

Tue. Jan.14, noon-1 pm

Learn what to ask for and how to find early childhood specialists, city or county programs, and when to use private alternatives.

The Use Your Words Workshop will empower you to advocate for your child so 

Register:  https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_l4rHZ1F6TmGYnAcnxks7Sw#/registration

Supporting Children and Youth with FASD: Strategies for Home and School

Tue. Jan 14, 7-8pm

Gain strategies for navigating brain function deficits caused by fetal alcohol spectrum disorder while enjoying your child’s strengths.

Register: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/2025-fff-fasd-winter-webinar-series

Middle School Toolkit: Systems for Improving Study Habits, Getting Organized, and Reducing Procrastination

Tue. Jan. 14, 7 pm

Gain study strategies, organizational routines, tips to prevent procrastination and advocacy guides to help your child.

Register:  https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_29ItqOaKSzut_pWw2_N4eQ#/registration

Straight Talk about ADHD Treatment: The Pro's and Con's of Medication

Wed. Jan. 15,  6:30 pm

Register:  https://labschool-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/2917244297878/WN_k-8KL-IGR1KuHgPGa62FMg#/registration

Onward to Preschool: Taking the Big Step from Early Intervention!

Wed. Jan. 15, 6:30-7:30 pm

Dive into the roles of parents, service coordinators, and educators in ensuring a smooth transition for your little superhero.

Register:  https://peatc.org/event/onward-to-preschool-taking-the-big-step-from-early-intervention-2/?

Key Neuropsychological Insights for Guiding Teens to College Success

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

High school parents are invited to consider your child’s developing brain as you foster essential life skills for college success.

Register:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/key-neuropsychological-insights-for-guiding-teens-to-college-success-tickets-1120350782349?

Therapeutic Recreation Advisory Council (TRAC) Open House

Wed. Jan. 15, 7:30-8:30 pm, 3001 Vaden Dr. Fairfax

New Council members are sought to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities through therapeutic recreation programming.

Register:  https://forms.office.com/g/tXKpbDyBUd  or phone Bekah Stone, 703-324-6103

From Battles to Bonding: A Parent’s Guide to Trading Defiance for Cooperation

Thu. Jan. 16, 1 pm, with replay link

Gain information on how to prevent emotionally dysregulated children from becoming defiant, and strategies to foster cooperation.

Register:  https://www.additudemag.com/webinar/defiant-child-parenting-strategies-adhd/?

Supporting Your Child’s Executive Functioning Skills (K-2)

Fri. Jan. 17, 10:00-11:30 am

Learn about executive functions, milestones for young children, how to recognize executive difficulties, and ways to improve skills.

Register:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfOEBFyBmnT_xFkW8oW15LWSTo5BkIpyE8CORDJG9NfnzLeZQ/viewform?

Chat with an Attorney About Special Education

Thu. Aug. 17, 10:15 am–2:00 pm

Free 45-minute appointments are available for parents to receive guidance from an attorney on special education topics. 

Register:  https://form.jotform.com/243394763546164

Uncovering Your Teen’s Unique Story:  Strategies to Shine on College Applications

Tue. Jan. 21, 12:30-1:00  pm 

Learn from a former admissions director how to help your teen find their unique story and use it effectively in essays and interviews.

Register:  https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_6zJWZhIzQnWVvwzKRSBLmA#/registration

Making Special Education Work for Students with FASD

Tue. Jan. 21, 7-8 pm

Gain an overview of how to access and use special education for both academic assistance and behavioral support for your child.

Register:  https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/2025-fff-fasd-winter-webinar-series

Empowering Parents:  How to Prepare for a Successful IEP Meeting 

Tue. Jan. 21, 7:00-8:30 pm, with replay option

Gain practical tips and expert insights to help you navigate the IEP process with confidence. Includes Q & A.

Register:  https://xminds.org/event-5971528

Responding to Our Community’s Mental Health Challenges: A Role for Volunteering

Wed. Jan.. 22, 1:30-3:30 pm 

A panel of four will address actionable ways to achieve community mental health benefits via volunteering of youth and/or elders.

Register:  https://events.humanitix.com/2025communityconversation

Disability Benefits: VA’s Medicaid Waivers

Thu. Jan. 23, 6:30-7:30 pm

Disability benefits from Virginia can complement disability benefits from Social Security.  Find out how to obtain this state benefit.

Register:  https://peatc.org/event/disability-benefits-vas-medicaid-waivers-6/?

Depression in Teens

Fri. Jan. 24, 10:00-11:30 am

Learn about the prevalence and identification of depression in teens, along with strategies for treatment and recovery.

Register:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf6BBOKfSaHMmXRdYerFJCksQrigTt4GM-RvqN175rW9HtliQ/viewform?utm_campaign+=

Talk Saves Lives:  An introduction to Suicide Prevention

Fri. Jan. 24, 4-5 pm

Suicide can be prevented. Learn how to recognize common risk factors and warning signs, and learn how to respond. 

Register:  https://ncactsl01262025.attendease.com

Parent Child Journey For Parents of challenging children ages 3-12

Tuesdays, Jan. 28-Apr. 1, 11 am-noon  $ varies

This program helps parents identify the source of their child’s challenging behavior and learn what they can do about it.

Register:  http://www.parentchildjourney.com/journey/

FCPS Gap Year Fair

Tue. Jan. 28, 6:00-8:30 pm, Marshall HS, Falls Church

Learn about the benefits of a gap year before college,. Talk with providers and alumni. Presentation followed by fair.

Register:  https://www.fcps.edu/event/fairfax-county-public-schools-annual-gap-year-fair

Understanding Therapy Options for FASD

Tue. Jan. 28, 7-8 pm

A FASD therapist will discuss two options:  Families Moving Forward and the FASCETS Neurobehavioral model.

Register:  https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/2025-fff-fasd-winter-webinar-series

TFIL Talks: Lessons from Arc2Independence

Tue. Feb. 28, 7-8 pm

Individuals with IDD or DD can learn how to use this app to help them with transportation, safety, or daily living. 

Register:  https://thearcofnova.org/event/tfil-talks-lessons-from-the-arc2independence-app-4/

Youth Mental Health First Aid Course for Adults

Wed. Jan. 29, 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?

Special Education Series 

Wednesdays, 1/29, 2/12, 2/26, 3/12, & 3/26,  6:30-7:45 pm

Learn detailed information about each of the steps of the special education process in Virginia.

Register:  https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_9ktHj3_LRUWXU7aC4MUnJQ#/registration

From Referral to Eligibility

Wed. Jan. 29, 6:30-7:45 pm

Learn about the initial stages of special education in Virginia, and how to get it started.

Register:  https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_9ktHj3_LRUWXU7aC4MUnJQ#/registration

Marshall (HS) Academy Open House

Thu. Jan. 30, 4:30-6:00 pm, MHS 7731 Leesburg Pk. Falls Church

Learn about career and technical education in languages, automotive tech, engineering, entrepreneurship, cyber, human services, and criminal justice.

Information:   https://marshallacademy.fcps.edu

Parent Child Journey For Parents of challenging children ages 3-12

Tuesdays, Jan. 30 to Apr. 3, 7-8 pm, 4201 Albemarle St. Wash. DC 

This program helps parents identify the source of their child’s challenging behavior and learn what they can do about it.

Register:  http://www.parentchildjourney.com/journey/  $ varies

Understanding  Trauma in Your Child — In Spanish

Comprendiendo el trauma en su hijo 

Miercoles, 31 de enero, 10:00-11:30 am, y 14 de febrero y 21 de marzo

Las respuestas naturales y los efectos que esto puede tener tanto en los niños como en los padres y estrategias que los padres pueden usar para apoyar a sus hijos.

Registrarse:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfaF0BAy7gkGM0urrcmen-4wWdWj0d3Q4Yw0ycvU-3T28n-5Q/viewform?

Plan Ahead — Nurturing Parenting Class — In Spanish

Clase de crianza cariñosa — para padres y adolescentes

Lunes, 10 de febrero al 26 de mayo, 5:30-8:00 pm, 2855 Annandale Rd. Falls Church
Las familias aumentan su empatía, encuentran nuevas formas de fomentar un comportamiento apropiado, desarrollar la autoestima y aprender a divertirse juntos.  

Registrarse:  ParentingEducation@fairfaxcounty.gov o teléfono Augustina Bravo 571-585-9128

Plan Ahead Nurturing Parenting For parents & teens 

Mondays, Feb. 10 to May 12, 6-8 pm

Learn communication strategies, how to see each other’s needs, and ways to build  personal power and self-esteem.

Register:  email buildingstrongerfamilies@fairfaxcounty.gov or phone Erika Rincon Diaz 703-324-5004 

Active Parenting Class — In Spanish

Planifica con anticipación Familias Fuertes Grupo de padres y jóvenes (12-18 años) 

Lunes, 10 de febrero a 12 de mayo,  5:30-8:00 pm, 3901 Rugby Rd. Fairfax

Padres y adolescentes aprenden estrategias de comunicación, comprenden el desarrollo de los adolescentes, y desarrollan poder personal y autoestima. Incluye comida y cuidado de niños.

Registrate:  buildingstrongerfamilies@fairfaxcounty.gov o telefono Alba Quinones 703-324-7310

Plan AheadNurturing ParentingFamilies of children ages 5-11 

Thursdays, Feb. 27, to June 12, 5:30-8:00 pm, 7434 Bath St. Springfield
Families increase their empathy, find new ways to foster appropriate behavior, build self-esteem, and have fun together.  

Register:   email buildingstrongerfamilies@fairfaxcounty.gov or phone  Brandonn Rivers. 571-992-4938 

 

Ongoing and On Demand

FCPS Special Education and 504 Newsletter 

Sign up at News You Choosehttps://www.fcps.edu/family-resources/family-communication-resources/news-you-choose

PEERS® for Preschoolers      

Evidence-based social skills group for children with autism, ages 4-6 (8 per group).  One 90 min. session weekly for 16 weeks starting February 2025 Information: https://firststepsbehavioraltherapy.com/peers%C2%AE-preschoolers  540) 200-8893       $ varies


Manifestation Determination Reviews (MDRs) Toolkit

Gain help to navigate an MDR process when a student with an IEP is considered for disciplinary action.

Access:  https://peatc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Manifestation-Determination-Review-MDR-Toolkit.pdf

ADHD @ School: Top 10 Hurdles to Learning with ADHD

This 10-part self-guided course equips caregivers and students with effective solutions to the specific academic and behavioral challenges associated with ADHD 

Register:  https://www.additudemag.com/download/adhd-new-school-year-for-parents/

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.  

Purchase:  https://thearcatschool.org/advocacy-curriculum/?

Dyslexia & the IEP: How to Make Sure the IEP Is in Tip-Top Shape

24/7 Access:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=frehRL58UTs

The Parent Playbook9 Module Online Course on Autism

An introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorder for families, including recommended programs, services, and  tips for caregivers,.Access: https://vcuautismcenter.org/te/courses/parent_playbook.cfm

NAMI Basics — 6 session course

This course is for adults who care for youth (ages 22 and younger) who are experiencing mental health symptoms (including ADHD and ASD).

Register:  https://www.nami.org/support-education/mental-health-education/nami-basics/

Children’s Challenging Behaviors

This 6-hour workshop focuses on children’s challenging behaviors, mental health conditions, special education, and advocacy skills.  

Register:  https://nami-northernvirginia.org/support-and-programs/for-families-and-loved-ones/childrens-challenging-behaviors/


Collaborative & Proactive Solutions 2 Day Training

Gain an overview of the CPS model including the use of assessments and problem solving.   $179

Register:  https://cpsconnection.com/virtual-and-in-person-trainings/

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 

Ongoing medical and behavioral health conditions can be included, along with emergency contact information.  https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/911/emergency-health-profile

Fairfax County Community Connect 

The special needs of individuals, and information about pets and your residence can be included with emergency contacts.  https://www.communityconnect.io/info/va-fairfax-county

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

Alpha Moms  This support group for adoptive parents meets monthly in McLean.  Contact:  robin4brady@gmail.com

Autism Society of NoVA Parents and Caregivers meets on the 2nd Saturday of the month, 10:00-11:30 am pm via Zoom.  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9466001682#success Meeting ID: 946 600 1682; One tap mobile (301) 715-8592   Contact: director@asnv.org

CHADD: Children & Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

West Fairfax/Burke CHADD Parent Support Group  1st & 3rd Thur. of each month at 8:00 pm Contact:  Cathy,  ocgreulich@aol.com  

DADS of Special Needs Kids of Any Age meets monthly in the evening during the school year on the 3rd Tue. or Thur. in Falls Church, to eat and talk at a favored resturant.  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://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScwKFIpb7CnnDy-DhQQXAmqq8kqrMLtT4ajtFquXHVYTUphTg/viewform

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

Fairfax Kinship Support Group  meets virtually on the 1st Thursday monthly at 6:30-8:00 pm.  An in-person group meets on the 3rd Thursday monthly at Fairfax County Community Centers at 6:15-8:00 pm.  Dinner and childcare are provided.  Register:  https://bit.ly/FFFkinSG

Formed Families Together meets monthly (except July) as peer support groups for adoptive, kinship, and foster caregivers and parents. A Virtual support group meets the 1st Sunday evening monthly. An In-Person support group meets the 3rd Wednesday evening monthly. Register:  https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/9085dfe9-2b13-4683-b28e-492f084a9dc6

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 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

NAMI:  National Alliance on Mental Illness builds better lives for affected families. 

Family Support Group for Parents of Youth meets online monthly on the 3rd Monday at 7 pm.  Register:  bit.ly/PSGArlington  Contact:  Michelle Best mczero@yahoo.com to arrange to chat when needed.   

NAMI Family Support Group for Parents meets online the 1st & 3rd Wednesdays monthly 7:00-8:30 pm. Contact Nicole Anjum at nanjum@namivirginia.org 

NOVA Adopt Friends Parent Peer Support Group for adoptive parents meets on the 3rd Thursdays monthly 6:00-7:30 pm.  Register:  https://adoptionsupport.org/resource/event/for-northern-virginia-families-nova-adopt-friends-virtual-parent-peer-support-group-8/

OCD Family Support Group meets the 1st Monday of each month, 7:30 pm.  Contact:  ela.mike@verizon.net   or  call 202-215-5859

Parents of Autistic Children (POAC-NOVA) Support Group meets in-person during the school year on the 1st Saturday monthly at 10:00-11:30 am, usually at 6121 Franconia Rd, Alexandria.  RSVP to supportgroup@poac-nova.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

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-5521265


Support Group for LGBTQ+ Families meets on the 3rd Thursday monthly at 7:00-8:30 pm. Facilitated by professionals.  Register:  https://adoptionsupport.org/resource/event/an-online-support-group-for-lgbtq-families/

Virginia Family Network Book Club for parents and caregivers of children living with mental health challenges meets on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays at 7-8 pm. Contact Nicole Anjum at nanjum@namivirginia.org 

Virginia Family Network Coffee Chat and Self-Care meets monthly on the 3rd Thurs. 9:00-10:30 am to connect and to discuss self-care journeys. 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 .