Special Education Liaison

Parent Information Relating to Special Education

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.

When other events are announced they will be posted with these at:

https://fairfaxcountysepta.org/upcoming-community-events/

October 2023

Plan Ahead — Parents of Challenging Children: Preschool through Early Adolescence

10 Tuesdays 8-9 pm, Oct. 10 to Dec. 12 $25-$350

Includes video course with > 10 hours of content in 3-5 min. videos

This discussion course helps parents to identify the source of their child’s challenging behavior and learn what they can do about it.

Information: http://www.parentchildjourney.com/journey/

Plan Ahead — Wrightslaw Special Education Law and Advocacy

Thu. Oct. 19, 9:00 am-4:30 pm, $165-$225

Learn about special education law, rights and responsibilities; tests and measurements, SMART IEPs; and effective advocacy. Includes 4 books.

Simultaneous interpretation in Spanish

ADHD in Communities of Color: Scrutinizing Barriers to Health Equity, Diagnosis, & Treatment

Tue. Oct, 3, 1 pm, with replay link

Consider the factors that hamper proper diagnosis and treatment, and gain strategies for improving outcomes.

Restrained and Secluded: How a Change in Perspective for Students With Disabilities and Simple Science Can Change Everything

Tue. Oct. 3, 1 pm

A new lens on behavior can reduce and eliminate punitive practices and lead to endless potential.

Special Topics in Raising Your Challenging Child (Buffet)

One or more Wednesdays, Oct. 4 to Oct. 25, 9:30-10:30 am

Video course plus group discussion on neurodiversity, ADHD, autism, children’s violent play, and helping siblings get along. $$ varies

Oct 4: Coexisting ADHD, Anxiety and Autism

Oct 11: Neurodiversity, Gender and Sexual Variation

Oct. 18: Children and Violent Play

Oct 25: Helping Siblings Get Along

Addressing the Mental Health Crisis in Children, Teens, and Young Adults: What Parents and Educators Can Do

Wed. Oct. 4, 7 pm Zoom

Fostering a healthy sense of control at home and in school will be emphasized, and multiple strategies will be covered.

Special Education Workshop Series

Wednesdays: 10/4, 10/18, 11/1, 11/15, 12/6, 6:30~7:45 pm

Learn about all the major features of the special education process in Virginia. Register for one or more presentations.

From Referral to Eligibility

Wed. May 4, 6:30-7:30 pm

Learn how to initiate a a referral and about the other initial stages of special education in Virginia.

Special Education Formed Families: Making It Work

Wed. Oct. 4, 7-8 pm

Learn about specialized topics for foster, adoptive, and kinship families to be aware of regarding special education.

Meet the Tech for Independent Living Team

Thu. Oct. 5, noon-1 pm

Learn about a free service that creates custom apps to help your child with activities of daily living and safety.

Building Family and School Partnerships for Twice Exceptional (2e) Students K-12

Fri. Oct. 6, 10:00-11:30 am

Join the FCPS 2e Specialist for ways to work with school and outside staff to address your child’s learning, social, and emotional needs.

ADHD Resource Fair and Lecture

Sat. Oct. 7, 9:30 am-12:30 pm, 120 Cherry St. Vienna

Dr. Stixrud will speak (11:30 am-12:30 pm) on how to nurture a healthy sense of control in kids with ADHD to support their self-motivation.

Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/chadd-of-northern-vadcs-2023-in-person-resource-fair-tickets-711692540547?aff=oddtdtcreator

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

Mon. Oct. 9, 9 am-noon, Providence CC, 3001 Vaden Dr. Fairfax

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

When Lack of Motivation Runs in the Family: Getting Kids with ADHD Organized & Focused for Learning

Tue. Oct. 10, 1 pm,

Consider effective strategies for helping parents with ADHD to guide the schoolwork of their children with ADHD.

Parents of Challenging Children: Preschool through Early Adolescence

Ten Tuesdays, 8-9 pm, Oct. 10 to Dec. 12, $25-$350

Includes video course with > 10 hours of content in 3-5 min. videos

This discussion course helps parents to identify the source of their child’s challenging behavior and learn what they can do about it.

Information: http://www.parentchildjourney.com/journey/

Neurodiversity, Gender and Sexual Variation

Wed. Oct 11, 9:30-10:30 am

Video course will be available with registration and the group discussion will be held on Oct. 11. $$ varies

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Overview

Wed. Oct. 11, 10:00-11:30 am OR 7:00-8:30 pm

ABA is used to study a student’s problematic behavior and then to shape their future behavior and teach skills.

Access: https://www.fcps.edu/academics/academic-overview/special-education-instruction/applied-behavior-analysis-aba-program

Understanding Special Education

Wed. Oct.11, 6:30-7:30 pm

Learn the steps of the special education process and the importance of both high expectations and the role of parents in that process.

Communication, Collaboration, and What to Do When You Just Can’t Agree

Wed. Oct. 11, 7-8 pm

Learn the specifics about special education dispute resolution options for foster, adoptive, and kinship families.

From Referral to Eligibility — in Spanish

De la referencia a la eligibilidad

Jueves, 12 de octubre, 6:30~7:45 pm

Conozca las etapas iniciales de la educación especial en Virginia.

Morning at the Museum — National Air and Space Museum

Sat. Oct. 14, 8:30-10:00 am, 6th St. & Independence Ave. Washington, DC

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

Let’s Take a Hike

Sat. Oct. 14, 10 am-noon, 14050 Dawson Beach Rd. Woodbridge

Adoptive families with children under 12 are invited for a hike at Occoquan Bay Wildlife Refuge.

Morning at the Museum — U. S. Botanical Garden

Sun. Oct. 15, 8:30-10:00 am, 100 Maryland Ave. SW Washington DC

Families with students with cognitive or sensory disabilities may come explore the garden and for sensory-friendly activities.

ADHD in the Workplace: Finding the Fit, the Interface and How to Problem Solve

Tue. Oct. 17, 7:30-9:00 pm

A panel of adults with ADHD will share their experiences in the workplace.

Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/adhd-in-the-workplace-career-fit-interface-and-resolution-tickets-711698899567?aff=oddtdtcreator

Children and Violent Play

Wed. Oct 18, 9:30-10:30 am

Video course will be available with registration and group discussion will be held on Oct. 18. $$ varies

Research Updates: Nutrition and Autism 2023

Wed. Oct. 18, 1 pm

Learn about the recent research on nutrition and autism.

Anatomy of an IEP

Wed. Oct 18, 6:30-7:45 pm

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

Wrightslaw Special Education Law and Advocacy

Thu. Oct. 19, 9:00 am-4:30 pm, $165-$225

Learn about special education law, rights and responsibilities; tests and measurements, SMART IEPs; and advocacy. Includes 4 books.

Simultaneous interpretation in Spanish

RSD Toolkit: Strategies for Managing Your Sensitivities in Real Time

Thu. Oct 19, 1 pm with replay link

This webinar for adults with rejection sensitivity dysphoria (RSD) may help you understand your child with ADHD.

Building a Growth Mindset for Math — for 4th & 5th graders

Sat. Oct. 21, 1:30-3:00 pm The StudyPro, 6849 Old Dominion Dr. #200, McLean

The focus will be on how to use a growth mindset to shift our goal from "get it done fast" to "honor the process".

Ins and Outs of IEP Meetings — In Spanish

Dentro y Fuera de las Reuniones del IEP

Lunes, 23 de octubre, 6:30~7:45 pm

Aprenda a planificar una reunión del IEP, qué esperar durante la reunión, cómo entablar relaciones allí y cómo defender a su hijo.

Registrarse: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_6homjgCPTr-sCA918T9qnw#/registration

The Importance of Assessing and Treating Anxiety and Trauma in Understanding ADHD Symptoms

Tue. Oct. 24, 7:30-9:00 pm

Consider how ADHD symptoms can also reflect the impact of underlying anxiety.

Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/assessing-and-treating-anxiety-and-trauma-in-understanding-adhd-symptoms-tickets-711699952717?aff=oddtdtcreator

Chat with an Attorney about Special Education

Wed.Oct. 25, 9:00-3:30 pm

Free 45-minute appointments with an attorney are available for parents to receive guidance on special education topics.
Register: https://form.jotform.com/232527274803153

Helping Siblings Get Along

Wed. Oct 25, 9:30-10:30 am

Video course will be available with registration, and group discussion will be held on Oct. 25. $$ varies

Preparing for Emergencies for People with Disabilities

Wed. Oct. 25, 11 am-noon

Three agencies will together guide participants in how to create their own emergency plan and toolkit.

Autism and Anthropomorphism

Wed. Oct. 25, 1 pm

Consider recent findings suggesting that autistic individuals tend to anthropomorphize more than neurotypicals.

Suicide Prevention: What Every Parent Needs to Know

Wed. Oct. 25, 6:30-8:00 pm, 21000 Educ. Ct, Ashburn

Youth Mental Health First Aid — Course for Adults

Thu. & Fri. Oct. 26 & 27, 9:00 am-12:30 pm, $25

Learn the risk factors and warning signs of mental health challenges in youth, their potential impact, and how to respond.

Coping Strategies for Anxiety, Depression, and Stress

Fri. Oct. 27, 10:00-11:30 am, Part 1 of 2

Learn how to identify if a child has anxiety or depression, treatment options, and ways to support those children.

Service Dog Day at the Museum of the Army

Sat. Oct. 28 4-6 pm, 1775 Liberty Dr. Ft. Belvoir

A hands-on special educational program and docent led tours will be available in a sensory-friendly environment.

Building a Growth Mindset for Math — for 4th & 5th graders

Sat. Oct. 21, 1:30-3:00 pm The StudyPro, 6849 Old Dominion Dr. #200, McLean

The focus will be on how to use a growth mindset to shift the goal from "get it done fast" to "honor the process".

November 2023

Special Topics in Raising Your Challenging Child Buffet

One or more Wednesdays, Nov. 1-15, 9:30-10:30 am, $ varies

Video course plus group discussion on common problems for neurodiverse children.

Nov. 1: Helping Your Child Experience Social Success

Nov. 8: Helping Your Child Learn Healthy Eating Habits

Nov, 15: Helping Your Child with Sleep Problems

Understanding Special Education — In Spanish

Comprensión de la Educación Especial

Miércoles, 1 de noviembre, 6-8 pm, 9950 Wellington Rd.
Manassas

Aprender los pasos del proceso de educación especial, y se familiarícese con su papel como padres en el desarrollo del IEP.

Registrase: https://peatc.org/event/comprension-de-la-educacion-especial-4/

Measurable IEP Goals
Wed. Nov 1, 6:30-7:45 pm

Learn about the benefits of high expectations, how goals can be measurable, and why monitoring progress is so important.

Meet the Tech for Independent Living Team

Thu. Nov. 2, noon-1 pm

Learn about a free service that creates custom apps to help your child with activities of daily living and safety.

SSI and VA's Medicaid Waivers

Thu. Nov. 2, 6:30 pm

Learn the basics on federal and Virginia government benefits for disabled children or adults including how to apply.

Placing Real Estate in a Special Needs Trust

Fri. Nov. 3, 11:30 am-12:30 pm

Learn to integrate real estate with trust assets, and the rights laws for disabled people in residences in VA, MD, and DC.

Morning Under the Dome — U.S. Capitol

Sat. Nov. 4, 8:00-9:30 am, First St. & East Capitol St. Washington, DC

Families with students with cognitive or sensory disabilities may come explore the Capitol and sensory-friendly activities. Register: RSVP to Maura Nelson at Maura.Nelson@aoc.gov with your family name and the number of individuals

Practice Police & First Responder Interactions
Sat. Nov. 4, 11 am-2 pm, 200 S. Carlin Springs Rd. Arlington
Practice: police traffic stops, traffic accident responses, and talking with fire and rescue services. Learn about tech safety resources.

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

Mon. Nov. 6, 9 am-noon, Providence CC, 3001 Vaden Dr. Fairfax

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

Helping Your Child Learn Healthy Eating Habits

Wed. Nov. 8, 9:30-10:30 am

Video course will be available with registration and the group discussion will be held on Nov. 8. $ varies

Resources for Undocumented Parents with Children with Disabilities — In Spanish

Recursos para padres indocumentados con hijos con discapacidades

Jueves, 9 de noviembre, 11:00 am-12:30 pm, en vivo, en línea - Y- 3060 Williams Dr. #300, Fairfax

Venga a obtener recursos que están disponibles para familias de niños con discapacidades que no tienen estatus legal en los Estados Unidos.
Registrarse por Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Eu2PK6XFTKKSmFAed4pc0g#/registration

Registrarse para asistir en persona: https://arcofnva.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/arcofnva/eventRegistration.jsp?

Executive Function Strategies to Externalize Time, Memory, Motivation

Thu. Nov. 9, 1 pm, with replay link

Gain strategies to help those with ADHD to reduce distractions, to make time more obvious, and to stay motivated.

How to Handle Disappointing Grades: Ways to Uncover the Reasons Behind Your Child’s School Performance (& How to Help!)

Thu. Nov. 9, 1 pm

Consider how to talk with your child about their school work, and what to do about it while benefiting your relationship.

Talk Saves Lives

Thu. Nov. 9, 7-8 pm

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

Coping Strategies for Anxiety, Depression, and Stress

Fri. Nov. 10, 10:00-11:30 am

Learn more about stress: how to recognize it in children, common sources, and strategies to lower stress.

Steps for Systematically Teaching New Behaviors

Wed. Nov. 15, 10:00-11:20 am, OR 7:00-8:20 pm

This presentation supports the FCPS applied behavior analysis program (ABA) for students with autism.

Access: https://www.fcps.edu/academics/academic-overview/special-education-instruction/applied-behavior-analysis-aba-program

Ins and Outs of IEP Meetings

Wed. Nov. 15, 6:30~7:45 pm

Learn what to expect at an IEP meeting, how to prepare for it, and how to work together afterwards to support your student.

Helping Your Child with Sleep Problems

Wed. Nov. 15, 9:30-10:30 am, $ varies

Video course will be available with registration and the group discussion will be held on Nov. 15.

Ten Things You Need to Know about IEPs — in Spanish

Diez cosas que debe saber sobre un IEP

Miércoles, 15 de noviembre, 6:30~7:45 pm

Comprender estas ideas puede ayudarlo a contribuir al IEP de su hijo.

Registrarse: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_6homjgCPTr-sCA918T9qnw#/registration

Supporting Attention and Executive Functioning from Early Childhood to Young Adulthood

Wed. Nov. 15, 7 pm

Characteristics and misconceptions of ADHD will be covered as well as ways to support individuals up to early adulthood.

Youth Mental Health First Aid — Course for Adults

Thu. Nov. 16, 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.

Fostering Better Communication Between the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community and the Police

Thu. Nov. 16, 7 pm

Learn about standard police procedures, recommendations for the deaf, and offer suggestions to help the police. Q&A included.

Executive Functioning — Helping your kids with organization, emotional regulation, and flexibility — In Spanish

Funcionamiento Ejecutivo - Ayudando a tus hijos con la organización, la regulación emocional , y la flexibilidad

Viernes, 17 de noviembre, 10:00-11:30 am

Aprenda qué son las funciones ejecutivas, por qué son importantes, y sobre el TDAH.

Registrarse: https://www.fcps.edu/event/parte-1-funcionamiento-ejecutivo-ayudando-tus-hijos-con-la-organizacion-la-regulacion

Talk Saves Lives

Sun. Nov. 19, 4-5 pm

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

At Ease: Low-Sensory Afternoon at the Museum of the Army

Sat. Nov. 18, 4-6 pm, 1775 Liberty Ave. Fort Belvoir

Explore the museum with a sensory-friendly and hands- on special educational program.

Mental Health in a Post-COVID World

Wed. Nov. 29, 11 am

Consider the new landscape of mental health needs, and how to access mental health care for people with disabilities.

Parenting Styles That Work for Neurodivergent Children: How to Adopt a Strengths-Based Approach to Parenting

Wed. Nov. 29, 1 pm, with replay link

Gain evidence based strategies for parenting neurodivergent youth in ways to help them build confidence and flourish.

Ongoing and On Demand

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. Scholarship: https://thearcus.surveymonkey.com/r/H7WNHB7

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

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).

Children’s Challenging Behaviors

This 6-hour workshop focuses on challenging behaviors, mental health conditions, special education, and advocacy skills. Register: https://nami-northernvirginia.org/support-and-education/mental-health-education/childrens-challenging-behaviors/

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. $50-$90

Info: https://www.wrightslaw.com/webex/law.adv.index.htm

Advanced Training in Collaborative & Proactive Solutions

Participants will learn how to use the ALSUP assessment and how to solve problems collaboratively. $149

Access: https://vimeo.com/ondemand/2dayjan22

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

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

https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/911/emergency-health-profile

Ongoing medical and behavioral health conditions can be included, along with emergency contact information.

Fairfax County Community Connect

https://www.communityconnect.io/info/va-fairfax-county

The special needs of individuals, and information about pets and your residence can be included with emergency contacts.

Ongoing Community Support Groups

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.

Support Groups for Parents

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

Arlington Epilepsy Support Group, a list-serve, can be accessed at ARLepilepsy@googlegroups.com

Autism Dads meets one evening monthly. Contact: George Buzby at 571-419-1257 or gbuzby@aol.com

Autism F.I.R.S.T. Family Support Group meets on the 1st Wed. monthly, in Chantilly or Herndon. Register: https://autismfirstus.com/events/