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

Advocacy Symposium
Monday to Monday, May 3 to10, 8 am
Learn about self-advocacy and how to positively support your children with disabilities including recent priorities.
Register:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/advocacy-symposium-2021-registration-136451300513
Disability Benefits: Medicaid Waiver and SSI
Mon. May 3, 6 pm
Learn about the disability benefits for which your child may qualify either now or in the future, including eligibility and how to apply.
Register:  https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_HT-2aFAFT0WkA1qhzjzieA
Mọi điều bạn muốn biết về COVID-19: Cập nhật về sức khỏe và vắc xin
Ngày 4 tháng 5 năm, 6:30-7:30 pm
Tìm hiểu về các loại vắc xin, tính an toàn và hiệu quả của chúng, khả năng miễn dịch của đàn là gì và quy trình tiêm phòng, bao gồm cả cách đăng ký.
Đăng ký:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd_W1VsLKuePMtP3n5dVBBy_d-If6vCwaFVNxaigEoORS3IYA/viewform
Executive Functions: What Are They and Why Are They Important? 
Wed. May 5, 7:00-8:30 pm
Register:   https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcocu-vqDsuHNWjwGoj5JV2isnHEc_XvHPF
Autism and the Black Family
Thu. May 6, noon-1 pm
A Black mental health worker with an autistic child will discuss the challenges of parenting children with disabilities in the Black community.
Register:  https://vcu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJMrdeyuqDwiHdSeHQdHb2adxc6S62nJ-lTX
Discipline with a Twist: How to Manage Challenging Behavior Problems in Children & Teens with ADHD
Thu. May 6, 1 pm, with replay link
Learn to solve behavior problems by understanding their origin, effective ways to prevent them, changing the environment, and increasing compassion. Register:  https://goto.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1429090&tp_key=c1c2cb7509
Family Partnerships with Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)
Thu. May 6, 6:30-7:30 pm
Learn how SEL enhances students’ ability to apply skills, attitudes, and behaviors to manage daily tasks and challenges in school and in life.
Register:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc3NGp5Tv9k84_75jE1P4IVtk3hZRlM5dDyluoqTU43pBN33A/viewform
The “How To” Guide to Building Growth Mindsets
Fri. May 7, 9-10 am
Learn how to emphasize growth over product, build resilience and perseverance, and respond to mistakes and frustration.
Register:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-how-to-guide-to-building-growth-mindsets-tickets-151542155667
Supporting Your Child’s Wellness Through Health and Physical Education
Fri. May 7, 10:00-11:30 am
Learn about the K-12 Health and PE program, how to engage reluctant children, and healthy choices you can encourage throughout the summer.  Register:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdj-UOXrFnHaFuyX5FfNjE5ai_mJ10LqykSekDe1WT-XvyOlw/viewform
Disbursing from Your Special Needs Trust
Fri. May 7, 10 am-noon
Learn some specifics about using a special needs trust to enhance your child’s quality of life, while keeping them eligible for government benefits. Register:  https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_4y8ByTSwQtSM_zj98ebucQ
Fairfax 카운티의 COVID-19 백신 및 예방 접종 프로세스
년 5 월 11 일 오후 6:30-7:30
등록 방법을 포함하여 백신, 백신의 안전성 및 효과, 가축 면역력, 백신 접종 과정에 대해 알아보십시오.
deunglog bangbeob-eul pohamhayeo baegsin, baegsin-ui anjeonseong mich hyogwa, gachug myeon-yeoglyeog, baegsin jeobjong gwajeong-e daehae al-abosibsio.
레지스터:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeWxfw4bKwuixFXHW_St1mu8qZnrDHtp3KWKqD04UlioP6tEA/viewform?utm_name=
An Overview of COVID Recovery, Compensatory Education, and Extended School Year Services
Thu. May 13, 6:30 pm
Learn about recovery, compensatory, and extended year services and advocacy strategies to request them.
Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_033DrVdKStmZvHWasB1FDw
SibShops:  For Brothers and Sisters of Children with Special Needs
Sat. May 15, 10:00-11:00 am, OR 1:00–2:00 pm
This workshop is for children in grades 2-6 who have siblings with special needs. Your child will meet other siblings, share experiences and receive peer support.
Register:   https://www.fcps.edu/resources/family-engagement/parent-resource-center/register-free-workshops-parent-resource-center
Got a Picky Eater? How to Solve Unhealthy Food Challenges in Children with SPD and ADHD
Tue. May 18,1 pm, with replay link
Learn how to manage common picky eating challenges, identify signs of more serious feeding disorders, and use effective techniques to improve eating habits. Register;  https://goto.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1451050&tp_key=84e66a9df2
لقاحات COVID-19 وعملية التطعيم في مقاطعة فيرفاكس: ندوة عبر الإنترنت للعائلات
Tue. May 18, 2:00-2:45 pm
Register:  https://vcurrtc.org/registration/webcast/index.cfm?webcastID=534
لقاحات COVID-19 وعملية التطعيم في مقاطعة فيرفاكس
الثلاثاء 18 مايو  6: 30-7: 30 مساءً
تعرف على اللقاحات ، وسلامتها ومدى فعاليتها ، وما هي مناعة القطيع ، وعملية التطعيم ، بما في ذلك كيفية التسجيل.
taearaf ealaa allqahat , wasalamatuha wamadaa faeealiatiha , wama hi manaeat alqatie , waeamaliat altateim , bima fi dhalik kayfiat altasjil.
vasjl:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeZnvo2JOOJpaWyCtrLc5MXEoY2F6FtgjVDWvr_NPOfFS6Jpg/viewform
Behavior Summit
Wed. & Thu. May 19 & 20, extended access on May 21 & 22
Learn about the science of behavior, functional behavior assessments, behavior intervention plans, and the relation of behavior to social skills.  Register:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/behavior-summit-for-parents-of-children-with-disabilities-in-virginia-2021-registration-136470455807
The Explosive Child:  From Control to Problem Solving
Wed. May 19, noon-3:30 pm.  $40-$75
Learn about the Collaborative and Proactive Solutions process, its refinements over the past 10 years, and its use in diverse settings.
Register:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-explosive-child-from-control-to-problem-solving-with-dr-ross-greene-tickets-147685977735
How to Talk to Your Children About Body Safety
Fri. May 21, 10:00-11:30 am
Learn about a Body Safety Education Program for children, signs of potential abuse, and how to be a safe resource for children.
Register:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeOzdV7yCFAEPOShlNCPFCq62rSjsSJoVZi4wv6YHKoqKujTQ/viewform
The Missed Diagnosis:  ADHD and Asperger Syndrome in Smart Kids and Adults
Wed. May 26,1 pm, with replay link
This webinar will focus on inattentive  ADHD, symptoms of Asperger syndrome, and the use of  didactic therapy for treating Asperger syndrome. Register:  https://goto.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1448270&tp_key=a7fd0a027f
Parent to Parent:  Surviving and Thriving During a Second COVID-19 Summer
Thu. May 27, 10:00-11:30 am  OR  6:30-8:00 pm
Make connections with other parents while discussing self-care for kids, navigating decisions amid uncertainty, and planning for family fun.
Register:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfnHgsoAIbivTrHrZULqNvihFGB0nPmj_U2BOVNVjl7cZdPCQ/viewform

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.
AAC Parent Group meets occasionally on Saturdays.  Contact:  Amanda [email protected] or 703-941-7757 ext. 316
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
Alpha Moms  This support group for adoptive parents meets monthly in McLean.  Contact:  [email protected]
Arlington Epilepsy Support Group, a list-serve, can be accessed at [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, May 29 and following, 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/
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
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]com  or call 303-903-9972.
  • Loudoun County CHADD Parent Support 3rd Sun. evening of the month.  Contact:  Bonnie Little  571-306-2932 or on Facebook @loudounahdhsupport
  • West Fairfax/Burke CHADD Parent Support Group  1st & 3rd Thur. of each month at 8:00 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]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
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
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.)
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
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]
OCD Family Support Group meets the 1st Mon. of each month, 7:30 pm.  Contact:  [email protected]   or  call 202-215-5859
Parent Café (for all Fairfax County parents and guardians) meets via Zoom in English on Mon., 7:45-9:15 pm, and en español, miércoles, 7:00-8:30 pm.  Register at least 24 hours in advance by email BuildingStrongerFamilies@fairfaxcounty.gov or 703-324-7720
Parents in a Pandemic is for families of children or young adults with developmental and/or behavioral challenges.  They meet twice monthly, 5:30-6:30 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 .
REACH Parent Support Group meets monthly to support parents of individuals with developmental disabilities who also have mental health or behavioral issues.  Contact:  Dr. Pourmand [email protected]eastersealsucp.com