Events By Month and Day:
April
I Can Bike After-School Program
Various weeks in March through May at Middle Schools in Fairfax County
This program uses adapted bicycles, a special instructional program, and trained staff to run the weeklong trainings for children with disabilities.
Information and registration: https://icanshine.org/ican-bike-fcps-fairfax-va/
Normalizing Parenting Stress $20
Mon. Apr. 2, 10 am, Family Compass 11150 Sunset Hills Rd. #150 Reston
Stress is normal if you are raising a child with developmental disabilities. Learn tips on how to cope during tense situations with your child and self-care strategies for home.
Register: http://familycompass.com/parenting-class/
Kinship Café: Dinner and Discussion for Kinship Caregivers
Wed. Apr. 10, 6-8 pm, Mott Community Center 12111 Braddock Rd. Fairfax
Share a family meal and conversation about raising children for relatives or friends. Includes separate games and activities for children and teens.
Register by Wed. Apr. 3: email kfi@fairfaxcounty.gov or 703 246-4653
The Kids We Lose: A Screening and Discussion
Wed. Apr. 3, 6:30-8:30 pm, Auburn Sch. 3800 Concorde Pkwy. #500, Chantilly
This documentary exposes the struggles faced by students with behavioral difficulties and common counterproductive responses to them.
Register: https://www.theauburnschool.org/page/153 or 703-793-9353
Impactful Parenting: Our Best Tips for Parents of Kids with Learning Differences
Wed. Apr. 3, 7:30-9:00 pm, Lab Sch. 4759 Reservoir Rd, NW, Wash. DC
Hear useful, effective parenting tips, covering a wide range of parenting dilemmas and approaches. The focus will be on practical advice that is relevant for most families.
Register: https://www.labschool.org/page/outreach/lecture-series
Technology to Support Reading and Writing
Thu. Apr. 4, 10 am-noon Parent Res. Ctr. 2334 Gallows Rd. Door 1, Dunn Loring
Learn about a variety of technology tools that support student success and independence with reading and writing at school and home.
Register: https://www.fcps.edu/node/28019/ or 703-204-3941
Parenting Your Late Elementary/Middle School Aged Child
Thu. Apr. 4, 6:00-7:30 pm, Ross Center, 1595 Spring Hill Rd. Vienna
Parents will learn: how to respond to negative behavior; reward systems; and how to foster the development of social skills, coping skills, and executive function skills.
https://www.rosscenter.com/group-therapy/free-parenting-series-virginia-office/
Executive Function Challenges and Your Child – $20
Wed. Apr. 4, 7 pm, Family Compass 11150 Sunset Hills Rd. #150 Reston
Learn about executive functioning skills, how children use them, and how to develop tools and strategies to support your child.
Register: http://familycompass.com/parenting-class/
An Individualized Approach to Raising Your Challenging Child — 10 Sessions
Thu. Apr. 4-Jun. 13, 7:30-9:00 pm, Temple Sinai 3100 Military Rd. NW Wash. DC
This program is designed to help parents identify the source of their child’s challenging behavior and learn what they can do about it. For parents of children ages 3-12.
Register: http://www.parentchildjourney.com/journey/ $ Cost varies.
Sibshops
Fri. Apr. 5, 9 am-noon, Providence Comm. Ctr. 3001 Vaden Dr. Fairfax
This workshop is for children in grades 2-5 who have siblings with special needs. Your child will meet other siblings, share experiences and receive peer support.
Register: https://www.fcps.edu/node/28019/ or 703-204-3941
Special Needs Trusts and ABLE Accounts — With Webinar Option
Fri. Apr. 5, 10 am-noon, Arc of NOVA, 2755 Hartland Rd. # 200 Falls Church
Learn about the roles of Special Needs Trusts and ABLE Accounts in safeguarding government benefits while providing for your child in the future.
Register: https://thearcofnovatrust.org/events/
Job Fair for Teens
Fri. Apr. 5, 11 am-1 pm, Chantilly HS, 8501 4201 Stringfellow Rd, Chantilly
Local businesses and agencies will be on hand to offer a range of opportunities including full-time and part-time jobs, internships, and volunteer work.
Registration: http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/springfield/teenjobfairs
Wrightslaw Special Education Law and Advocacy Training
Fri. Apr. 5, 9:00 am-4:30 pm, Kelly Ctr. 14715 Bristow Rd. Manassas
Learn about special education law, rights and responsibilities; tests to measure progress and regression; SMART IEPs; and strategies for effective advocacy.
Register: https://arcgpw.123signup.com/event/details/221520;jsessionid=0FA70D29949BE3569A1AB4C53B829938 $75-$125
FCPS Special Education Conference
Sat. Apr. 6, 7:45 am-1:30 pm Lake Braddock SS 9200 Burke Lake Rd, Burke
This conference for parents, students, and teachers includes over 50 presentations, a keynote speaker, and exhibit hall. The student strand is for youth ages 14-22.
https://www.fcps.edu/spedconference2019
Transition Planning for Foreign Service Families with Disabilities —With Webinar Option
Sat. Apr. 6, 8:30 am-noon, The Arc of Nova, 2755 Hartland Ave. #200, Falls Church
This workshop is for military and other families who need to plan for the future even though they may not know where they will eventually reside.
Register: https://thearcofnova.org/programs/transition/transition-points-workshops/
Job Fair for Teens
Sat. Apr. 6, 10 am-noon South County HS, 8501 Silverbrook Rd, Lorton
Local businesses and agencies will be on hand to offer a range of opportunities including full-time and part-time jobs, internships, and volunteer work.
Registration: http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/springfield/teenjobfairs
Autism Community Day
Sat. Apr. 6, 10 am-noon, LCPS 21000 Education Ct. Ashburn
Free activities for the entire family, such as moon bounce, sensory room, games, music, fun run.
Register: https://www.lcps.org/cms/module/selectsurvey/TakeSurvey.aspx?SurveyID=9166
Intelligent Lives Screening – $10
Sun. Apr. 7, 7:15 pm University Mall Theater 10659 Braddock Rd. Fairfax
This movie challenges what it means to be intelligent and points to a future in which people of all abilities can fully participate.
Tickets: https://arcofnva.z2systems.com/np/clients/arcofnva/eventRegistration.jsp?event=5894
Your Struggling to Launch Young Adult: Building the Optimal Partnership for Launch
Tue. Apr. 9, 2:00-8:30 pm, Fusion 333 John Carlyle St #100 Alexandria
Learn about steps in the transition to adulthood at which students with ADHD typically have difficulty and helpful ways for parents to respond.
Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/your-struggling-to-launch-young-adult-building-the-optimal-partnership-for-launch-tickets-58405787282
Vision 2019 — for Parents and Seniors
Wed. Apr. 10, 4-6 pm, NVCC 8333 Little River Turnpike, Annandale
The orientation will include presentations from Disability Services and Counseling Services, a mock NOVA classroom experience for students, and a current student panel Q&A session.
Register: Contact your HS Employment and Transition Rep. (ETR)
MPower Me Tech Workshop — For Parents and Students
Wed. Apr. 10, 6-8 pm, The Arc of Nova, 2755 Hartland Ave. # 200, Falls Church
Parents and students will learn about and practice using this technology to plan complex tasks using smaller steps, set goals, and track progress toward them.
Register: https://goo.gl/forms/63tkoYEAeaJeoqNm2
The Message of Behavior
Thu. Apr. 11, 9-11 am, LCPS 21000 Education Ct. Ashburn
Review ways to understand what your child is communicating through her behavior. Identifying the functions of behaviors is critical to finding effective interventions.
Register: https://www.lcps.org/parentresourceservices or 571-252-6540
Diamonds in the Rough Conference – $ Varies
Fri./Sat. Apr. 12-13, JHU 9601 Medical Ctr. Dr. Rockville, MD
Parenting Chldren with Special Needs: Preparing to Launch at Every Age
Register: https://www.diamondsintheroughconference.com
Transitioning: From School to Employment
Sat. Apr. 13, 10 am-noon, ASNV 10467 White Granite Dr. Oakton
Learn about the school-to-employment transition process for students with ASD, including supported employment and other options.
Register: https://asnv.wufoo.com/forms/transitioning-from-school-to-employment/
The Power of Meditation for Less Stress (at Home and School!)
Sat. Apr. 13, 1:30 pm-3:00 pm, StudyPro, 6849 Old Dominion Dr. #200, McLean
Learn the what, why, and how of using meditation to decrease stress for our students, many of whom are being overwhelmed by expectations.
Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-power-of-meditation-for-less-stress-at-home-and-school-tickets-58025589099
Wondering About Gap Years?
Tue. Apr. 16, 10:00-11:30 am, StudyPro, 6849 Old Dominion Dr. #200, McLean
Learn the who, what, when, where, and why of taking a gap year. Juniors and seniors are also welcome whether or not they have college acceptances.
Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/wondering-about-gap-years-tickets-59030284169?
Hot Topics on ADHD: Update on the Most Recent Findings in ADHD Research
Wed. Apr. 17 7:30 pm Lab Sch. 4759 Reservoir Rd. NW Wash. DC
Following an up-to-date synopsis of recent research findings we will focus on how that information is affecting treatment options for children with ADHD and related disorders.
Register: https://www.labschool.org/outreach/lecture-series
Instituto de Padres en Español
17-18 abr. 9:00 – 15:00 Courtyard 300 Marriott Drive Winchester,
Este oportunidad es por padres que son nuevos en el proceso de Educación Especial interesados en dar los próximos pasos para colaborar como padres líderes.
Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/registro-instituto-de-padres-en-espanol-2019-winchester-va-55520397002
Gender Differences in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Tue. Apr. 23, 6:30-8:30 pm, LCPS 21000 Education Ct. Ashburn
Learn about gender differences in ADHD symptoms in children and young adults, which lead to important implications in diagnosis and treatment.
Register: https://www.lcps.org/parentresourceservices or 571-252-6540
Transition Fair and Parent Workshop — With Webinar Option
Wed. Apr. 24, 5:30-8:00 pm, TCW 3330 King St. Alexandria
The Transition Fair will be followed by a panel discussion that will explain many options and aspects of the transition to employment for people with disabilities.
Register by April 19: email janet.reese@acps.k12.va.us or phone 703-824-0129
Flash Forward, Career and Transition Event
Tue. Apr. 23, 6:30-8:30 pm Woodson HS 9525 Main St, Fairfax
Students with IEP’s and their parents can learn about options after high school: supported employment, competitive employment, and further education.
Register: https://www.fcps.edu/node/28019/ or 703-204-3941
Transition Fair & Employment Panel for Individuals with Disabilities — Webinar Option
Wed. Apr. 24, 5:30-8:00 pm, TCW HS 3330 King Street Alexandria
This workshop/webinar will show case and explain many options and aspects of transition and employment for people with disabilities.
Register: https://www.acps.k12.va.us/site/Default.aspx?PageID=964&DomainID=51#calendar1526/20190424/event/10241
Preparing for the Transition to Secondary School
Thursday, April 25, 2019
7:00 pm – 8:30 pm, Sycamore Sch. 4600 North Fairfax Dr. #300 Arlington
Concerned about how your student will transition to Secondary school? Learn about key readiness skills and what parents can do today to help their student prepare.
Register: https://thesycamoreschoolva.org/upcoming-events/
Autism and Safety: Public Safety Considerations, Guidance for Families, Caregivers and Self-Advocates
Fri. Apr. 26, 10 am-noon, Parent Res. Ctr. 2334 Gallows Rd. Door 1, Dunn Loring
Learn about safety risks for children with ASD or other cognitive disabilities, proactive steps to reduce these risks, and resources for emergency preparedness.
Register: https://www.fcps.edu/node/28019/ or 703-204-3941
Morning at the Museum — National Air and Space Museum
Sat. Apr. 27, 8:30-10:00 am, 600 Independence Ave. SW, Wash. DC
Families with students with cognitive or sensory processing disabilities may come to explore the exhibits and for sensory-friendly activities.
Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/si-morning-at-the-museum-air-and-space-museum-tickets-59377036314
Community Sensory Day
Sat. Apr. 27, 11 am-1 pm, Police Station 6140 Rolling R., Springfield).
Individuals with developmental disabilities and their families can meet police, learn about safety, and “Touch-A-Truck!” Snacks, games, and activities included.
Register: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/neighborhood-community-services/therapeutic-recreation/fantastic-times
Spring Forward Family Fun Day and Regional Conference
Sat. Apr. 27, 8:30 am-2:00 pm, GMU Colgan Hall 10900 Univ. Blvd. Manassas
Families formed through foster care, kinship care, or adoption are invited. Adults focus on learning while children have a blast at GMU’s The EDGE.
Register: https://fffspringforwardconference.eventbrite.com $0 – $40
Adoption and The Teen Years: A Conference for Teens, Parents & Professionals
Sat. Apr. 27, 9 am-2 pm, McLean Sch. 8224 Lochinver Ln. Potomac, MD
Learn about the challenges and unique strengths of adopted teens, and strategies to support and maintain the connection with your teen during these years.
Register: https://www.adoptionstogether.org/events/adoption-and-the-teen-years/?
Job Fair for Teens
Sat. Apr. 27, 10 am-noon Mount Vernon HS, 8515 Old Mt. Vernon Rd, Alexandria
Local businesses and agencies will be on hand to offer a range of opportunities including full-time and part-time jobs, internships, and volunteer work.
Registration: http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/springfield/teenjobfairs
Social Competence: For Children with Autism or Other Developmental Disabilities
Mon. Apr. 29, 9-11 am, LCPS 21000 Education Ct. Ashburn
Learn strategies for promoting social skill acquisition and enhancing performance. We will focus on tools to help children understand social interactions, situations, cues, and rules.
Register: https://www.lcps.org/parentresourceservices or 571-252-6540
I’m Ready to Advocate for Kids With Learning and Attention Issues. Now What?
Mon. Apr. 29, noon, — Webinar
Learn how to initiate change in your community by working with your local school board, including specific resources and supports you can advocate for.
No registration. Go to https://live.understood.org/en/ at noon on Apr. 29
Special Education PTA Meeting: Meet the FCPS Ombudsman
Tue. Apr. 30, 6:30-8:45 pm, Camelot ES 8100 Guinevere Dr. Annandale
Come meet the FCPS Ombudsman, Armando Peri. Members will vote on next year’s board, and you can participate in a discussion of your concerns.
Ongoing…
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.
