Upcoming Community Events

All these opportunities are online and FREE unless noted.
In most cases you must register if registration information is provided.
Ongoing and On Demand courses follow this monthly list of events.

When other events become available they will be posted at:  https://fairfaxcountysepta.org/upcoming-community-events/

The FCPS Parent Resource Center is still open, and it continues to provide direct assistance to families, educators, and community members.  The staff there can help you find answers and solve problems.  [email protected]   703-204-3941

Strengthening Families — 8 week course
Parent Session:  Wednesdays, Mar. 3 to Apr. 28, 6:30-7:30 pm
Youth/Family Session:  Mondays, Mar. 8 to May 3, 5:30-7:30 pm

Parents and youth (ages 10-14) can strengthen family bonds through discussion, games, roleplaying, and family projects. Raffles and great prizes. Register:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/strengthening-families-with-children-10-14-virtual-series-registration-141018071849


Youth Mental Health First Aid Course for Adults
Sat. Mar. 13, 9 am-3 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?groupID=47

Programa de apoyo para padres — Curso de 8 semanas
Miércoles, el 17 de marzo hasta el 12 de mayo, 6-8 pm
Reúnase con otros padres y madres para compartir experiencias, éxitos y desafíos.  Dirigida por un especialista en la crianza de los hijos. Registrarse:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/programa-de-apoyo-para-padres-registration-141230226409 o 703-820-9001 ext. 106

Nurturing Parenting Program — 8 week course
Thursdays, Mar. 18 to May 13, 6-8 pm
Parents of children of all ages will be supported in stress management, family rules, self-esteem, and child development. Register:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/nurturing-parenting-program-virtual-series-registration-140995341863

Special Education Law and Advocacy Training (Wrightslaw)
Wed. Mar. 31, Decatur, GA, live OR online    $170-$250, inc. 3 books
Learn about special ed. law, rights and responsibilities; measuring progress and regression; SMART IEPs; and effective advocacy. Register:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/wrightslaw-special-education-law-advocacy-this-event-offers-cle-and-ceu-tickets-93743534435?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

Discipline Strategies for ADHD:  How to Manage Your Child’s Most Challenging Behaviors
Tue. Mar. 2, 1 pm, with replay link
We will focus on increasing positive interactions with your child or teen, and effective strategies to manage online school and problematic behavior. Register:  https://www.additudemag.com/tag/webinar/

What Parents Should Know About Mental Health Treatment of Minors and Young Adults
Tue. Mar. 2, 7:00-8:30 pm
Learn about mental health treatments, who provides them, what to ask providers, parents’s rights, and how to advocate for youth. Register:  https://thesycamoreschoolva.org/events/virtual-speaking-event-what-parents-should-know-about-mental-health-treatment-of-minors-and-young-adults-a-senior-capstone-project/#mec-events-meta-group-booking-7801

Medicaid Waivers Basics
Wed. Mar. 3, 10-11 am
Learn what a Medicaid Waiver is, how to determine if you are eligible, the services a waiver can offer, and how to apply. Register:  https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_IJ6YpViOQMKv-KiajnlQjQ

Planificación Futura:  Es Posible y Necesario
Miercoles, Mar. 3, 7:00-8:30 pm
Aprenda de personal de The Arc cómo empezar los discusiones y los pasos que su familia debe seguir para crear un plan futuro. Registrarse:  https://thearc.webex.com/thearc/k2/j.php?MTID=t8061dc3d4aae6d3e09027d8ede883a4f

Teaching your Children to Follow Directions
Thu. Mar. 4, 10:00-11:30 am
Gain an overview of instructional control and strategies to support your child in following directions. Register:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf7nE1__FuKz0FJJjvlJo7pVXmL4nuH4JDbHonhGFmZnZVwSQ/viewform

Planificación Futura: Es Posible y Necesario
Jueves Mar. 4, 2:00-3:30 pm
Aprenda de personal de The Arc cómo empezar los discusiones y los pasos que su familia debe seguir para crear un plan futuro. Registrarse:  https://thearc.webex.com/thearc/k2/j.php?MTID=t01db210d4973b663f778529672ce9461

Family Partnerships with Social-Emotional Learning
Thu. Mar. 4, 6:30-7:30 pm
Learn the core competencies of social-emotional learning and how improving these can help a student manage daily tasks and challenges in life. Register:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc3NGp5Tv9k84_75jE1P4IVtk3hZRlM5dDyluoqTU43pBN33A/viewform

Divorce and Children with Disabilities
Fri. Mar. 5, 10:00 am-noon
Learn about critical issues to be resolved in divorce planning including the establishment of a Special Needs Trust. Register:  https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Mn80P0XMTIOmygaKLQd0Nw

Talk Saves Lives
Sun. Mar. 7, 4-5 pm
Suicide can be prevented. Learn how by recognizing common risk factors and warning signs, and by learning appropriate responses. Register:  https://ncactsl03072021.attendease.com/register/registration/

Courageous Leadership – Minding How We Treat One Another
Mon. Mar 8, 7:00 pm
Learn, share, and implement solutions to diversity, equity, and inclusion challenges in our PTAs and schools. Register:  https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwod-ugrzspGdSLZLf8L-1wYgKLxVhTTfCs

Nutrition and Mental Wellness:  Part 1 & Part 2
Tue. Mar. 9 & Thu. Mar. 11, 5-7 pm
Parents are invited to this exploration of nutrition and mental wellness. Register:  https://www.facebook.com/events/124832809505607/

Is It Bipolar Disorder or ADHD Moodiness? A Guide to Getting the Right Diagnosis and Treatment
Wed. Mar. 10, 1 pm, with replay link
Learn how the symptoms of ADHD and bipolar disorder are similar but different, plus treatment options for both conditions. Register:  https://www.additudemag.com/tag/webinar/

Playing with Math:  Brain-Based Strategies to Improve Foundational Math Skills
Wed. Mar. 10, 7:00-8:30 pm
Learn how to minimize math anxiety and maximize math performance by keeping math fun with interactive games and activities. Register:  https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/3516073532380/WN_Yu0QjzPpSU-u-HGdbqrUaw

Order of Self-Determination
Thu. Mar 11, noon
Students from Arlington County VA will discuss what self-determination means to them.Register:  https://vcu.zoom.us/meeting/register/v5QlceGspz4pHNOO8XQ5pvIG2BIL2EMBu__p

How to Raise Your Spirited Child
Thu. Mar. 11, 1 pm, with replay link
Discover how small actions can build a routine that wins cooperation from your child with ADHD and brings calm to your family. https://goto.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1435306&tp_key=7e6ab44a3d

Having Meaningful Conversations About Difficult Topics
Thu. Mar. 11, 7:00-8:30 pm    $10
Learn strategies to use when talking about COVID, sexuality, race relations, politics, and other challenging topics. Register:  https://thesycamoreschoolva.org/events/jen-corts-talk-on-having-meaningful-conversations-about-difficult-topics/#mec-events-meta-group-booking-2482

Youth Mental Health First Aid Course for Adults
Sat. Mar. 13, 9 am-3 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?groupID=47

Programa de apoyo para padres — Curso de 8 semanas
Miércoles, el 17 de marzo hasta el 12 de mayo, 6-8 pm
Reúnase con otros padres y madres para compartir experiencias, éxitos y desafíos.  Dirigida por un especialista en la crianza de los hijos. Registrarse:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/programa-de-apoyo-para-padres-registration-141230226409 o 703-820-9001 ext. 106

Effectively Communicating with Your Child
Thu. Mar. 18, 10:00-11:30 am OR 6:30-8:00 pm
Gain an overview of the components of communication and  strategies to increase effective communication with your child. Register:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdrCrX-uhmCY90OiSqS1VAbzXYcKVulYa37DLanbZdgghV0Kg/viewform

Building Relationships through Virtual and Community Programming
Thu. Mar. 18, noon
Learn how individuals with autism can develop meaningful relationships via creative and collaborative community programs. Register:  https://vcu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJ0qceGtpzMoGNL1kD8CFIiq0jnI9zMuMx5r

Understanding Special Education
Thu. Mar. 18, 7:00
Learn the phases of the special education process and how parents should participate both formally and informally. Register:  https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_g4YhbnBST_y8hZ9qtTuwYQ

Special Education: Understanding the Process and Collaborating with Your School
Fri. Mar. 19, 10:00-11:30 am
Learn how children qualify for services, how to advocate for your child, and about some of the special education terms and processes. Register:  https://www.fcps.edu/resources/family-engagement/parent-resource-center/register-free-workshops-parent-resource-center

Black Interracial Adoptees:  Part 1
Mon. Mar. 22, 7-9 pm  $25
Parents of black interracial adoptees are invited to join this virtual interactive lecture. Register:  https://store.adoptionsupport.org/product/specialeventinteractivelecture-part1/special-event-virtual-interactive-lecture-black-interracial-adoptees-part-1?

كيف تحتفظ بالتقاليد و المثل العربيه في المجتمع الامريكي

(Challenges of Parenting in the US and During the Pandemic)
Wed. Mar. 24, 10:00-11:30 am OR 6:30-8:00 pm  Presented in Arabic
Learn strategies to address your children’s challenging behaviors and to bridge the cultural gap, helping your home to run more smoothly. Register:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdx1ReVj2iehXl_yVxmwv9hjwBaMIo3Jp7p4w8y9NetBsVwNw/viewform

ADHD Clarified:  New Research and Essential Strategies for Thriving with ADHD
Thu. Mar. 25, 1 pm, with replay link
Learn new strategies and lifestyle hacks to minimize the downsides and maximize the benefits of ADHD for people of all ages. Register:  https://www.additudemag.com/tag/webinar/

Courageous Conversations:  Challenging the Status Quo
Tue. Mar. 30, 7 pm
Learn, share, and implement solutions to diversity, equity, and inclusion challenges in our PTAs and schools. Register:  https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUode6uqT4jHdWkxNv7crODzSaHW8o8RvCJ

Special Education Law and Advocacy Training (Wrightslaw)
Wed. Mar. 31, Decatur, GA, live OR online    $170-$250,  3 books included
Learn about special ed. law, rights and responsibilities; measuring progress and regression; SMART IEPs; and effective advocacy. Register:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/wrightslaw-special-education-law-advocacy-this-event-offers-cle-and-ceu-tickets-93743534435?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

Plan Ahead — Collaborative & Proactive Solutions — 2 Day Training
Thu. Apr. 8 & Fri. Apr. 9, 9 am–4 pm  $200-$220
Gain an overview of the CPS model, along with the nuances of assessment and engaging kids in solving the problems that affect their lives. Register:  https://4children.ca/events/

Plan Ahead — Navigating the Teen and Tween Years — 7 week course
Tuesdays, Apr. 6 to May 18, 6-8 pm
Join other parents of 10-16 yr. olds to address how to set routines, manage conflict, and navigate exposure to drugs and tobacco. Register:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/navigating-the-tween-teen-years-virtual-series-registration-141017303551

Plan Ahead — FCPS Special Education Conference
Sat. Apr. 17
It will include live and recorded presentations, a student strand for youth age 14-22, and a virtual exhibit hall. Register:  https://www.fcps.edu/academics/academic-overview/special-education-instruction/special-education-conference-2021?

Plan Ahead — Children’s Challenging Behaviors
Apr. 20 & 22, 6-9 pm
Learn typical vs. challenging behaviors and how to respond, available community resources, educational supports, and parenting strategies. Register:  https://forms.gle/Y6qomzybur7BK9Md9

Ongoing and On Demand

Dyslexia & the IEP: How to Make Sure the IEP Is in Tip-Top Shape
Webinar, available 24/7
Access:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=frehRL58UTs
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 [email protected] 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 registration 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://publiccourseapi.nami.org/Learner/Login?ReturnUrl=%2F
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

Support Groups

Support Groups are ongoing throughout the year and do not change from quarter to quarter like the other opportunities sent through the weekly HES PTA Buzz email.  All these support groups are open to newcomers, most are online, 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 respected.

FOUR NEW GROUPS:

African American Culturally Focused Virtual Parent Café 

Meets Thursdays, 6:00-7:30 pm.  Register at least 24 hours in advance by email [email protected]fairfaxcounty.gov or 703-324-7720

Arlington Epilepsy Support Group, a list-serve

Can be accessed at [email protected]com

Kinship Café

Meets monthly on the 2nd Wed. 6:30-8:00 pm for those raising children of friends or relatives.  Contact:  703-324-7720 or email [email protected]fairfaxcounty.gov

Cafés Virtuales Para Padres

Miércoles de 7:00-8:30 pm.  Regístrese con al menos 24 horas de anticipación:   [email protected]fairfaxcounty.gov o 703-324-7720

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Alpha Moms  

This support group for adoptive parents meets monthly in McLean.  Contact:  [email protected]com

Autism Dads
Meets one evening monthly.  Contact:  George Buzby at 571-419-1257 or [email protected]
Autism Society of Northern Virginia Virtual Support Group
2nd and 4th Saturday of the month, 1:00-2:30 pm via Zoom.  Meeting ID:  83085728013
Business Networking Event for Special Needs Parents
Alternate Fridays, 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/
CHADD: Children & Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
  • Alexandria CHADD Parent Support Group  4th Mon. of each month at 6:30 pm.  Contact:  Alyssa  [email protected]gmail.com  or call 303-903-9972.
  • Loudoun County CHADD Parent Support 3rd Tue. morning of the month in Sterling.  Contact:  Bonnie Little  571-306-2932 or on Facebook @loudounahdhsupport
  • West Fairfax/Burke CHADD Parent Support Group  1st & 3rd Thur. of each month at 8 pm Contact:  Cathy,  [email protected]
CSB Family Support Group at Gatlan Center
2nd and 4th Wed. of each month 6:00-7:30 pm via Zoom Contact:  [email protected]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 [email protected] or call 703- 545-6089.
Dr. Dan’s Support Group for Parents Raising Challenging Children
Meets via Zoom on Mondays, 1-2 pm, Register:  http://survey.constantcontact.com/survey/a07eh2rnzqrk9vdghmb/a0179kbgrhnj1/questions
Epilepsy Parent Support Group & Discussion Series
Meets monthly on the 4th Thursday, 7:00-8:30 pm.  Register:  https://epilepsywdc.org/events/epilepsy-parent-support-group-discussion-series-virtual/
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 Recovery & Support Group
Meets weekly via Zoom on Mondays 6:30-7:30 pm for family and friends of those receiving CSB services for addictions.  Contact:  [email protected]fairfaxcounty.gov   www.fairfaxcounty.gov/community-services-board/recovery/family-support-virtual-group
Grupo de Chat para Padres
Unete a nuestro nuevo GRUPO DE CHAT mediante la aplicación de WhatsApp y podras mantenerte al tanto de todo lo que PEATC Latino esta haciendo. Entra al GRUPO: https://bit.ly/2VoU2vw   (Chat Group for Latino Parents: Join our new CHAT GROUP through the WhatsApp application and you will be able to keep up to date with everything that PEATC Latino is doing.)
Heads Up and Talk It Out — Teen and Parent Recovery Groups
These are concurrent virtual groups for teens (ages 14-17) who are working through emotional, mental health or substance use challenges and their parents every Thursday 6-7 pm.
Info:  https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/community-services-board/recovery/heads-up-talk-it-out
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 [email protected]
Parent Café (for all Fairfax County parents and guardians)
Meets via Zoom in English on Mon., 7:45-9:15 pm, for African Americans on Thu. at 6:00-7:30 and en español, miércoles, 7:00-8:30 pm .  Register at least 24 hours in advance by email:  BuildingStrongerFamili[email protected]   or 703-324-7720
Parents in a Pandemic
For families of children or young adults with developmental and/or behavioral challenges.  They meet twice monthly, 5:00-6:00 pm on Tuesdays.  Contact Diane Manning [email protected]org .
Parents of Autistic Children (POAC-NOVA) Parent Support Group 
Meets on Saturdays occasionally.  Contact:  Brianne Russel-Morris [email protected]poac-nova.org .
Parents of Autistic Teens 
Meets some Sat. of each month.  Contact:  Maria Dubuc 703-970-3676 or [email protected]
Stronger Together
Meets alternate Tuesdays, 7-8 pm, starting Oct. 6.  This peer support group is for parents, caregivers and guardians of youth ages 14 – 22.   The youth meet separately at the same time, and both groups are facilitated by professionals.  Register:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2020-21-stronger-together-peer-support-groups-tickets-119246035101?