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/

February

Note: Several Fairfax County parenting classes are included in this list because many families with children with disabilities appreciate every ounce of wisdom to help their children.

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 — Wrightslaw Special Education Law and Advocacy Training $180

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

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

Disability Benefits: Social Security and VA’s Medicaid Waivers

Mon. Feb. 3, 6:00-7:30 pm

Learn about these two different systems of disability benefits, including how to apply.

Addressing Behaviors Confidently

Tue. Feb. 4, 6-7 pm

Learn about social and emotional skills, how to respond to challenging behaviors. and school behavior support options.

Ins and Outs of IEP Meetings — In Spanish

Dentro y Fuera de las Reuniones del IEP

Martes, 4 de febrero, 6:30-8:00 pm

Aprenda qué esperar de una reunión del IEP, cómo prepararse para ella, y cómo trabajar juntos después para apoyar a su estudiante.

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

Help Kids with ADHD Build Social Skills and Resilience in a Digital World

Wed. Feb. 5, 8 pm

Gain ways to help kids with ADHD to navigate social situations by enhancing social awareness, reducing anxiety, and fostering meaningful connections.

Early Childhood Academy — For Families of Young Children with Disabilities

Fri. Feb. 7 to Fri. Mar. 14, a self-paced course

Learn practical information to help you guide your child in developing skills to be successful in life.

Understand Executive Function Milestones, Challenges, & Implement Effective Strategies at Home for Children in Upper Elementary (3-6)

Fri. Feb. 7, 10:00-11:30 am

Learn about the development of executive function skills, how to recognize challenges, and how to support learning.

Morning at the Museum — National Museum of Natural History

Sat. Feb. 8, 8:30-10:00 am, 1100 Constitution Ave. Washington, DC

Families with students with cognitive or sensory processing disabilities may come to explore the exhibits and sensory-friendly activities.

Youth Mental Health First Aid — Course for Adults

Seat. Feb. 8, 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.

Sensory Friendly Ford’s for Me

Sat. Feb. 8, 9-11 am, 514 Tenth St. NW Washington, DC

Families with students with cognitive or sensory processing disabilities may explore the exhibits and sensory-friendly activities.

Free Tickets: https://fords.org/visit-us/accessibility/fords-for-me/?

Building Strong Parent Advocates — Self-Paced Course

Sun. Feb. 9 to Sun. Mar. 2, 6 hours of content

Build a solid foundation to understand the special education process while being empowered to be your child’s best advocate.

IEP University (IEPU) — Self-Paced Course

Sun. Feb. 9 to Sun. Mar. 2, with access 24/7

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

Transition University — Self-Paced Course of 5 Sessions

Mon. Feb. 10 to Mon. Apr. 14, with access 24/7

Learn now how to maximize your child’s independence and quality of life when they age out of school 5-10 years from now.

Planning for the Future: Financial and Decision-Making Options

Tue. Feb. 11, 6:00-7:30 pm

If your child has ID/DD, learn now about special needs trusts, ABLE accounts, guardianship, and supported decision-making.

Bullying Webinar Series

Wednesdays, Feb. 12, 19, & 26, 6:30-7:45 pm

Gain the knowledge and tools to address bullying and create safer environments for our youth.

- Feb. 12: Is Your Child the Target of Bullying?

- Feb. 19: Understanding the Dynamics of Cyberbullying Technology and Our Youth

- Feb. 26: Creating a World Without Bullying

Is Your Child the Target of Bullying?

Wed. Feb. 12, 6:30-7:45 pm

Gain strategies on how to identify and address bullying and how to obtain help from professionals.

Special Education Series

Wednesdays, 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.

Anatomy of an IEP

Wed. Feb. 12, 6:30-7:45 pm

Learn about the sequence and contents of the separate sections of an Individualized Educational Plan.

Lazy Is a Four-Letter Word: Understanding The Impact of Executive Dysfunction

Wed. Feb.12, 7:00-8:30 pm

Learn how to recognize executive dysfunction, how it affects teen and pre-teen behavior, and how to support your child.

Talk Saves Lives: An introduction to Suicide Prevention

Thu. Feb 13, 7-8 pm

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

Understanding Trauma in Your Child — in Spanish

Comprendiendo el trama en su hijo — en español

Viernes, 14 de febrero, 10:30-11:30 am

Aprendemos sobre los diferentes tipos de trauma, los efectos típicos del trauma, y maneras de apoyar a su hijo.

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

FCPS Risk Prevention Series: Part 1

Tue. Feb. 18, 10:00-11:30 am

Learn about risk assessments when a child demonstrates concerning behaviors, and gain strategies to support your child.

Ten Things You Need to Know about IEPs — in Spanish

Diez cosas que debe saber sobre un IEP — en español

Martes, 18 de febrero, 6:30-7:45 pm

Los niños con discapacidad tienen derecho a un Programa de Educación Individualizado (IEP) que sus padres ayudan a desarrollar! Aprenda cómo ayudar.

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

Strengthening Kinship Families: A National Perspective and Resources to Help

Tue. Feb. 18, 7-8 pm

Information will include financial and program/services supports for both formal and informal kinship care.

Register: https://formedfamiliesforward.org/event/strengthening-kinship-families-a-national-perspective-and-resources-to-help-webinar/

ADHD and Caffeine: Risks & Benefits of Using This Natural Stimulant

Wed. Feb. 19, 1-2 pm

Learn about the ADHD brain, how caffeine affects ADHD symptoms, pros and cons, and ways to combine caffeine with other treatment.

Understanding the Dynamics of Cyberbullying Technology and Our Youth

Wed. Feb. 19, 6:30-7:45 pm

Consider the types of cyberbullying, warning signs, the motivations behind cyberbullying, and how to support your child.

Getting Past the Jargon

Wed. Feb. 19, 6:30-8:00 pm

Gain help to make sense of neuro-psychological and psychoeducational evaluation reports.

Seussical the Musical — Sensory Friendly Production

Mon. Feb 20, 6:30 pm, Robinson SS

The musical weaves together the vibrant and whimsical characters of Dr. Seuss’s works.

RSVP by Feb. 14 to request seating, otherwise walk-ins are welcome.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1YvUNBC_Kl_SVdDEkiICnMOfARkeFoNxfklZ9JYlBZqs/viewform?

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

Sat. Feb. 22, 10 am-1 pm, 13800 Wall Rd. Herndon

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

Autism-Friendly Winter Wonderland

Sat. Feb. 22, 10 am-1 pm, 5290 Shawnee Rd. Alexandria

Activities include arts and crafts, bouncy houses, games and much more. Food and some refreshments will be provided!

Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/free-autism-friendly-winter-wonderland-tickets-1138542032869#:~:text=About%20this%20event&text=lasts%203%20hours-,Come%20explore%20a%20Winter%20Wonderland%20at%20the%20new%20SOS%20Clinic,of%20the%20wonderful%20activities%20below!

How to Get Unstuck and Write: Start to Finish — for MS Students

Sat. Feb. 22, 1:00-2:30 pm, 6849 Old Dominion Dr. # 200, McLean

Students will learn that for every writing roadblock there is a strategy they can choose to help them write.

Talk Saves Lives: An introduction to Suicide Prevention

Sun. Feb 23, 4-5 pm

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

FCPS Risk Prevention Series — Suicide Prevention: Supporting Your Child

Tue. Feb. 25, 10:00-11:30 am

Learn how to identify signs of suicidal ideation and how to respond effectively with compassion and confidence.

Measurable IEP Goals

Wed. Feb. 26, 6:30-7:45 pm

Learn about the benefits of high expectations, what are measurable goals, and why monitoring progress is so important.

Creating a World Without Bullying — A Facilitated Discussion

Wed. Feb. 26, 6:30-7:45 pm

Activities and group chats will invite youth and their parents to explore how youth can recognize bullying and respond to it.

Save the Date— 2025 FCPS Family Summit

Sat. Mar. 15, 8 am-3 pm (Location to be announced.)

Plan Ahead — Wrightslaw Special Education Law and Advocacy Training $180

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

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

Ongoing and On Demand

FCPS Special Education and 504 Newsletter

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

This Toolkit can help a family 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

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 Playbook — 9 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

Learn About Opioid Overdoses and How to Reverse Them

Access: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/community-services-board/heroin-opioids/revive

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).

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

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

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

Kinship Café meets online 6:30-8:00 pm the 3rd Thursday of the month for those raising the children of relatives and friends. To attend, call 703-324-7720 or email BuildingStrongerFamilies@fairfaxcounty.gov .

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

Sowing Special Seeds is a group of families (with offspring who have special needs) who maintain gardens at South Run Rec Center. Meeting times vary. Contact: Brenda Zepf,

703-475-6277 or zepfmb@gmail.com

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 .

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