Events By Month and Day:
Fairfax Prevention Coalition Meeting
Wed. Jan. 8, 1-3 pm, Thom. Jeff. Lib. 7415 Arlington. Blvd, Falls Church
Learn about strategies to prevent drug misuse and addiction, including vaping, opioids, and underage drinking, along with connections to treatment.
Info: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/community-services-board/events/2020-01-08-coalition
Neuropsychological Evaluation
Wed. Jan. 8, 7-9 pm, Auburn Sch. 3800 Concorde Pkwy. #500, Chantilly
Learn about the information that a neuropsychological evaluation provides, and how it can be used to implement appropriate interventions at home and school.
Register: https://www.theauburnschool.org/page/153 or 703-793-9353
What Parents Need to Know about Teenagers and Autism
Wed. Jan. 8, 7:00-8:30 pm, Arc of GPW MHC, 13505 Hillendate Dr. Woodbridge
Register: Contact Jan Russell at jrussell@arcgpwc.org
What People with Autism Have to Teach the Rest of Us About Sexuality and Gender
Wed. Jan. 8, 7-9 pm, Temple Sinai 3100 Military Rd. NW Washington, DC
Register: https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07egrf87az3076cbb2&oseq=&c=&ch=
Augmentative and Alternative Communication: AAC Partner Training Strategies
Wed. Jan. 15, 6:30-8:00 pm, TCW HS 3330 King St. Alexandria
Learn about various AAC tools and how to use them to enhance your child’s ability to communicate at home, at school, and in the community.
Register by Jan. 8: janet.reese@acps.k12.va.us or phone 703-824-0129
The IEP Transition Plan: Post-Secondary Planning in Middle and High School
Thu. Jan. 9, 10 am-noon, Parent Resource Ctr. 2334 Gallows Rd. Door 1, Dunn Loring
Learn the importance of the IEP Transition Plan for effective postsecondary planning in middle and high school.
Register: https://www.fcps.edu/node/28019/ or 703-204-3941
Raising Tweens: 10 Key Skills Kids Will Need in Middle School and Beyond
Thu. Jan. 9, 11:45 am-1:15 pm, StudyPro, 6849 Old Dominion Dr. #200, McLean
Learn how we can help our tweens to navigate key issues: making good friend choices, negotiating conflict, regulating emotions, and self-advocating.
Register: https://thestudypro.com/events-calendar/
Teen LifeSkills Training — 6 Week Class for Middle Schoolers
Wed. Jan. 9-Feb. 13, 5:30-7:00 pm, Sherwood Com. Ctr 3740 Old Lee Hwy. Fairfax
LifeSkills Training is an evidence-based program for middle schoolers to learn healthy habits and build skills. Dinner served. Attend regularly to earn gift cards!
Register: 703 385-7858 or www.fairfaxva.gov/ParksRec
Financial Planning for Special Needs Families — With Webinar & Recorded Options
Fri. Jan. 10, 10:00 am-noon, The Arc of Nova, 2755 Hartland Ave. #200, Falls Church
Learn general financial planning principles and special considerations for the unique needs of families with special needs children and young adults.
Register: https://arcofnva.z2systems.com/np/clients/arcofnva/event.jsp?event=6099&
Mental Health and Wellness Conference
Sat. Jan. 11, 8 am-1 pm, Independence HS 23115 Learning Cir. Ashburn
This conference for parents includes concurrent breakout sessions, presentations by school, community, and regional experts, and a resource fair.
Register: www.NavigateThePath.com
Watch Party for a Presidential Forum on Disability Issues
Mon. Jan. 13, 11 am, The Arc of Nova, 2755 Hartland Ave. #200, Falls Church
Join others to watch the live-stream coverage in Austin, TX of Elected for Inclusion: A Presidential Forum on Disability Issues.
The ADA and Developmental Disabilities Employment — With Webinar Option
Tue. Jan. 14, noon-1 pm, The Arc of Nova, 2755 Hartland Ave. #200, Falls Church
Learn how the Americans with Disabilities Act offers protections for people with developmental disabilities who are employed or looking for work. Bring questions.
Register: https://thearcofnova.org/programs/info-referral/ada-workshop-series/#workshop3
SEPTA Advocacy Event & General Membership Meeting
Tue. Jan. 14, 7-9 pm, Gatehouse Admin. Cafe 8115 Gatehouse Rd. Falls Church
Learn the steps in how to advocate to bring about change for yourself, your child, and our community.
Register: Eventbrite
New Parent and Teen Support Groups
Tue. Jan 14, 6:00-7:30 pm, Newport Academy 1497 Chain Bridge Rd, McLean
Mental health professionals lead these groups. Parents and teens meet together for one-half hour, and then the group divides into a parent group and teen group for the remaining time.
Information: Susan Salva 757-784-3562 or Darren Hoffer 717-526-9209
Strategies for Finding a Good College Fit
Wed. Jan. 15, 7:00-8:30 pm, Sycamore Sch. 4600 North Fairfax Dr. #300 Arlington
Learn practical tips for selecting the right fit college, how to find the accommodations your student needs, and preparation strategies.
Register: https://thesycamoreschoolva.org/upcoming-events/
Why is my Kid Still at Home? Managing the Failure to Launch Dilemma
Wed. Jan. 15, 7:00-8:30 pm, 4031 University Dr. Fairfax (enter on South St.)
Join us as we look into why young adults with ADHD struggle with independence, and as we share methods to overcome this difficulty.
Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/why-is-my-kid-still-at-home-managing-the-failure-to-launch-dilemma-tickets-83927526491
Beyond Learning Differences and Executive Functioning Challenges: How to Solve Any Academic Problem with Study Skills and Time Management
Wed. Jan. 15, 7:30-9:00, Lab Sch. 4759 Reservoir Rd, NW, Wash. DC
This talk will highlight simple, practical ways to help your students improve their study skills and time management.
Register: https://form.jotform.com/92343925458162
Evidence-based Interventions for Children with FASD — Webinar
Thu. Jan 16, 6:30-8:00 pm
The various interventions to be covered will target behavior and self regulation, social skills, family support, and academic skills.
Register: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/1090640071262713100
Who Gets to Tell Your Story: Disability and Identity in a ‘Perfect’ World
Thu. Jan. 16, 7 pm, McLean Sch. 8224 Lochinver Ln. Potomac, MD
Disability advocate, John Sharon will explore how a person’s limitations impact who they are and how they are seen by those around them.
Register: https://www.mcleanschool.org/events/community-education-series-2/
Bipolar Disorder in Children and Adolescents: Assessment, Treatment, and Research Update
Tue. Jan. 21, 10 am-noon, Parent Resource Ctr. 2334 Gallows Rd. Door 1, Dunn Loring
Learn about diagnostic criteria, signs and symptoms in children and adolescents, and treatment options, resources and collaborations.
Register: https://www.fcps.edu/node/28019/ or 703-204-3941
Managing Bumps in the Road
Wed. Jan. 22, 709 pm, LCPS Admin. Bldg. 21000 Education Ct. Ashburn
Learn how to help your teen by maximizing parent-child relationships during the middle school and high school years.
Register: https://www.lcps.org//cms/module/selectsurvey/TakeSurvey.aspx?SurveyID=2904
Parenting Youth in LGBTQ+ Adoptive Families — Webinar
Thu. Jan 23, 7-8 pm. Cost varies.
Register: https://store.adoptionsupport.org/webinars
Calm Conversations with Your Adolescent
Fri. Jan. 24, 10 am-noon, Parent Resource Ctr. 2334 Gallows Rd. Door 1, Dunn Loring
Learn ways to set boundaries that foster loving and safe communication, and strategies to feel connected and calm rather than frazzled and overwhelmed.
Register: https://www.fcps.edu/node/28019/ or 703-204-3941
Managing ADHD Medications
Fri. Jan. 24, 10 am-noon, 6849 Old Dominion Dr. #200, McLean
Learn how to manage ADHD medications, including how to manage side effects, uneven coverage, and stoping medication. Bring your questions.
Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/book-launch-and-lecture-adhd-medication-management-tickets-85511630589?
Strengthening Families — 14 week course
Mon. Jan 27 – May 18, 5:30-8:00 pm, ARHA Bldg. 401 Wythe St. Alexandria
Parents and youth (ages 6-11) can strengthen family bonds through discussion, games, roleplaying, and family projects. Free dinners & Childcare for ages 2-5.
Register: Yolonda Thompson at 703.820.9001 X 109 ythompson@scanva.org
Sibshops
Tue. Jan. 28, 9 am-noon, Providence Community Ctrr. 3001 Vaden Dr. Fairfax
OR Gum Springs Community Center 8100 Fordson Rd, Alexnadria
These workshop are for brothers and sisters of children with special needs.
Register: https://www.fcps.edu/node/28019/ or 703-204-3941
Developmental Disability Advocacy Day in Richmond! — Bus There and Back
Tue. Jan. 28, 7 am-3 pm, The Arc of Nova, 2755 Hartland Ave. #200, Falls Church
This is an annual bus trip to Richmond where we will advocate in coordinated groups meeting with legislators who represent the region.
Register: RSVP to lucy.beadnell@thearcofnova.org
Social Competence: For Children with Autism or Other Developmental Disabilities
Wed. Jan. 29, 9-11 am, LCPS Admin. Bldg. 21000 Education Ct. Ashburn
Learn strategies for promoting social skill acquisition and tools to help children understand social interactions, expectations, social cues, and social rules.
Register: https://www.lcps.org//cms/module/selectsurvey/TakeSurvey.aspx?SurveyID=8905
Protecting Our Youth: A Conversation About Teen Trafficking for Parents and Teens
Thu. Jan. 30, 6:30-8:30 pm, BWHS 22525 Belmont Ridge Rd, Ashburn
A panel of law enforcement will discuss how teens of every gender, race, and means are targeted locally, and the types of situations to look out for.
Register: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/V6N5965
Strategies to Promote Fine and Gross Motor Development in Young Children
Mon. Feb. 5, 6:30-8:00 pm, TCW HS 3330 King St. Alexandria
In this workshop, parents will learn some practical and fun ways to boost their young child’s fine and gross motor skills.
Register by January 29: janet.reese@acps.k12.va.us or phone 703-824-0129
Portrait of an ADHD Graduate: Overcoming Obstacles While Optimizing Strengths
Fri. Jan. 31, 10 am-noon, Parent Resource Ctr. 2334 Gallows Rd. Door 1, Dunn Loring
Learn how to help your student with ADHD by building on existing strengths, developing executive function skills, and cultivating emotional intelligence.
Register: https://www.fcps.edu/node/28019/ or 703-204-3941
Research Study on the Transition to Adulthood for Students with Fragile X Syndrome
A Vanderbilt U study is seeking students in a last year of high school and their parents. Includes 4 assessment visits over a 3-year period. Travel costs reimbursed.
Information: 615-322-2943 or email: transitions@vumc.org
Plan Ahead…
Plan Ahead — Parenting Education Programs — 12, 13, or 14 sessions
5:30-8:00 pm starting in Jan. at various locations in Fairfax County
In Spanish or English. Learn what to expect, how to build strong family relationships, and how to better handle stress and anger. Child care and dinner included.
Register: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/familyservices/children-youth/parenting-education-programs
Plan Ahead — Parenting & Navigating the Teen & Tween Years — 7 week course
Thu. Feb. 13 – March 26, 9-11 am, Riverside ES 8410 Old Mt. Vernon Rd. Alexandria
Join other parents of 10-16 yr olds to address how to set routines, manage conflict and navigate exposure to drugs and tobacco
Register: Meg Turkson, Parent Liaison at mturkson@fcps.edu
Plan Ahead — 2020 Youth Leadership Academy (YLA) Now Accepting Applications
Rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors learn leadership and advocacy skills at Virginia State University from July 13-16, 2020. Apply by March 27.
Information: https://vaboard.org/YLA.htm
Plan Ahead — Cecily’s Advocacy Conference 2020
Sat. Feb. 29, 8:30 am-2:00 pm, McLean Sch. 8224 Lochinver Ln. Potomac, MD
Early Bird Registration before Feb. 3: https://www.mcleanschool.org/support/parents-association/cecilys-advocacy-conference-2020/ $50 includes 2 meals
Save the Date — FCPS Special Education Conference
Sat. April 18 Hayfield SS, 7630 Telegraph Road, Alexandria.
Includes a Student Strand for youth ages 14-22.
Ongoing…
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
Get Ready for College: A Resource for Teens with Disabilities
Online, Self-Paced 8 Class Course from VCU
This course for high school students with disabilities focuses on preparation for college, selection of a college for best fit, and the disability services process. Access: http://vafamilysped.org/Event/j8Gu8yhL54NjdEsQYzfwtg/Event-online-self-paced-free-course-get-ready-for-college-a-resource-for-teens-with-disabilities
Access to Success — Online Self-Paced 8-class Course for Students with Disabilities
High school and college students can learn about their disability rights and how to obtain accommodations in college. Access: https://accesstosuccess.ctb.ku.edu
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
Fairfax County Parks – Adapted Recreation for Kids
Swimming, gymnastics, ice skating, fitness, park explorers.
Information: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/adapted-programs
Fairfax County Therapeutic Recreation
Information: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ncs/tracers/up/ProgramListing.aspx?pDGID=2
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
Post-Adoptive Recreation Program for Youth 10-15 with Special Needs
A once-monthly Saturday recreation and respite program open to Fairfax County residents who have adopted via public or private agencies.
Contact: Formed Families Forward info@formedfamiliesforward.org
Give an Hour Healthy Minds Fairfax
A new program will provide no-cost mental health services to income eligible children and youth ages 5-21. Information: https://giveanhour.org/initiatives-and-programs/healthy-minds-fairfax/
On Demand – Dyslexia & the IEP: How to Make Sure the IEP is in Tip-Top Shape
Webinar On demand, available 24/7.
*Please Note: FCPS (Fairfax County Public Schools) and ACPS (Alexandria City Public Schools) can often provide translation services for their events into Spanish, Arabic, or other languages if you contact them well in advance.
