Special Education Resources
Parent Information Relating to Special Education
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.
Ongoing and On Demand events and courses follow this monthly list of events.
When other events are announced they will be posted with these at: https://fairfaxcountysepta.org/upcoming-community-events/
January
Civil Rights Protections Against Retaliation
This new resource was recently released by the U.S. Dept. of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR):
http://t1.info.ed.gov/r/?id=h1d6eedc,18abdea,18b79b3
For more information or to file a complaint: https://ocrcas.ed.gov
Plan Ahead — DMV Connect
Mon. Jan. 13, 9:30 am-2:45 pm, 3060 Williams Dr. #300, Fairfax
A Virginia Dept.of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Connect team will be at the Arc and equipped to conduct most DMV transactions.
Pre-Register: https://thearcofnova.org/event/dmv-connect/
Plan Ahead — Wrightslaw Special Education Law and Advocacy Training
Tue. & Wed. March 18 &19, 9 am-noon each day
Learn about special education law, rights, tests and measurements, SMART IEPs, and advocacy.
Register by Jan. 15 for Early Bird price $130: https://peatc.org/event/wrightslaw-special-education-law-and-advocacy-training-2/?
Note: Several Fairfax County parenting classes are included in this list because many families with children with disabilities benefit from every ounce of wisdom to best care for their children.
Plan Ahead — Active Parenting Class —Families of children age 0-4
Wednesdays, Jan. 15 to Apr. 29, 6-8 pm
Learn nurturing parenting routines, how to recognize emotions, child development, and infant massage, and build self-esteem.
Register: email: buildingstrongerfamilies@fairfaxcounty.gov or phone Augustina Bravo 703-324-7737
Active Parenting Class —In Spanish
Planifique con anticipación — Crianza activa — en español — para familias con niños 0-4 años
Martes, 21 de enero a 30 de abril, 6-8 pm
Aprenda rutinas de crianza enriquecedoras, cómo reconocer las emociones, el desarrollo infantil y los masajes infantiles, y desarrollar la autoestima.
Registrarse: buildingstrongerfamilies@fairfaxcounty.gov o telefonear Sammy Zeballos 703-324-3532
Plan Ahead — African American Culturally-Focused Parenting Class
Wednesdays, Feb. 2 to May 14, 5:30-8:00 pm, Gum Springs CC, Alexandria
This class emphasizes African American history, culture, and traditions. All family members have age-appropriate activities.
Plan Ahead — Dads Parenting Group
Tuesdays, Feb. 6 to Apr. 26, 6:00-8:30 pm
Hone your Father Skills by meeting with other Dads to focus on self-awareness, self-care, parenting skills and relationship skills.
Pre-Register: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/familyservices/children-youth/father-engagement
Plan Ahead — I’m Determined Youth and Family Summit
Tue.-Thu. June 10-12, James Madison Univ. Harrisonburg, VA
Youth (age 14-18) with disabilities and parents will meet to network, discuss issues and learn about self-determination.
Application due Jan 12: https://imdetermined.org/annual-youth-family-summit/
Building Independence with the TFIL Team
Thu. Jan 2, noon-1 pm
Learn how the Arc2Independence app can be customized to help your student navigate daily routines and challenges.
Register: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMtce6qqD8jHNz6UyPkRgItKT7nmk3ecB6h#/registration
Metro Travel Training
Fri. Jan. 3, 10 am to -12:30 pm, Dunn Loring-Merrifield Metro Station.
This is a practice trip on the metro for an individual with a disability and a designated adult. Metro card included.
Medication for Struggling Children and Adolescents
Tuesdays, 10-11 am
Jan. 7, Medication for ADHD
Jan. 14, Medication for anxiety
Jan. 21, Medication for depression and severe irritability
Includes a 10-session video course followed by one or more of the live discussion sessions, $ varies
Register: https://www.parentchildjourney.com/excursions/
Small Wins Add Up: How to Build New Habits in 2025
Tue. Jan. 7, 1 pm, with replay link
If ADHD runs in your family, consider how to take manageable steps to improve life for your whole family.
Register: https://www.additudemag.com/webinar/small-wins-new-habits-adhd-new-year/
Special Education Webinar Series — in Spanish
Serie de educación especial — en español
Cada taller: 6:30-7:45 pm
Enero 7: Comprensión de la Educación Especial
Enero 21: De la Referencia a la Eligibilidad
Febrero 4: Dentro y Fuera de las Reuniones del IEP
Febrero 18: Diez cosas que debe saber sobre un IEP
Marzo 25: ¡Su Voz Vale!
Aquellos que asistan a más de tres talleres, podrán participar de una rifa y ganar una tarjeta de regalo de $50!
Registrarse: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Cb1EoNatRsiVaoTGaiNlWw#/registration
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Webinar Series
Tuesdays, Jan. 7-28, 7-8 pm
Learn about this under- or mis-diagnosed disability, and how to support affected children at home or in school.
Register: https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/2025-fff-fasd-winter-webinar-series
Understanding FASD as a Brain-Based Disability
Tue. Jan. 7, 7-8 pm
Gain an overview of FASD characteristics, variability, diagnosis, and the strengths of affected youth.
Register: https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/2025-fff-fasd-winter-webinar-series
Perspective: Adult Sibling with Profound ASD
Wed. Jan. 8, 1 pm
Join us for a sibling perspective as an physician shares her journey as a legal guardian, caregiver, and advocate for a loved one.
Register: https://autism.org/perspective-adult-sibling-with-profound-asd/
Extended School Year (ESY): A Guide for Families
Wed. Jan. 8, 6-7 pm
Learn about ESY services for students with IEPs, including the purpose, decision process, and the types of services.
Register: https://pwcs-zm-edu.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_VuTQQIA3SL-9EmxkzU_R_Q#/registration
What Is PDA? Exploring the Autism Profile Everyone’s Talking About
Wed. Jan. 8, 7:00-8:30 pm
Learn about PDA: a Persistent Drive for Autonomy, and how students with this profile can be supported at home and school.
Register: https://xminds.org/event-5971138
Chantilly (HS) Academy Open House
Wed. Jan. 8, 6-8 pm, 4201 Stringfellow Rd. Chantilly
Learn about career and technical education classes in health sciences, auto tech, construction, ROTC, Korean, marketing, engineering, cyber/IT, firefighting, and human services.
Information: https://chantillyacademy.fcps.edu
Transition Lunch & Learn
Thu. Jan. 9, noon-1:30 pm
Plan for the transition to adult services by learning about supports for employment, transportation, recreation, and day services.
Register; https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMvcuGuqjktHNz9913p6Nhk7vo6UKymiSFe#/registration
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Opioid Overdose & Naloxone Education Training
Thu, Jan. 9, 1 pm & other dates & times
Be prepared for an overdose! Learn how to administer naloxone, and what to do afterwards. Receive supplies.
Register: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/community-services-board/heroin-opioids/revive
Building Friendships for Middle & High School Students
Thu. Jan. 9, 6:30-8:00 pm, 13505 Hillendale Dr. Woodbridge
Both students and parents are welcome to attend this presentation on ways to build lasting friendships for those with IDD/DD.
Register: https://www.pwcs.edu/academics___programs/special_education/parent_resource_center/events/index
From Graduation to Greatness: Learn How a Gap Year will Enhance Your Teen’s Growth Trajectory
Thu. Jan. 9, 7-8 pm
Consider the benefits of a gap year, whether it might be a good fit for your teen, and how to plan for it.
Register: https://thesycamoreschoolva.org/event/seth-kessler-lee-sosin-gapwell/
Parents of Challenging Adolescents
Thursdays, 7-8 pm $ varies
Jan. 9, Avoiding Power Struggles
Jan. 16, Working with Your Adolescent
Jan. 23, Behavioral Strategies
Includes 10 session video course followed by live discussion sessions.
Register: https://www.parentchildjourney.com/excursions/
Talk Saves Lives: An introduction to Suicide Prevention
Thu. Jan. 9, 7-8 pm
Suicide can be prevented. Learn how to recognize common risk factors and warning signs, and learn how to respond.
Register: https://ncactsl01092025.attendease.com
Falls Church (HS) Academy Open House
Thu. Jan. 9, 6-9 pm, 7521 Jaguar Trail, Falls Church
Learn about career and technical education classes in criminal justice, biotechnology, American Sign Language, Vietnamese, and health sciences.
Information: https://fallschurchacademy.fcps.edu
Examining an Employment Planning Tool for Students with Significant Support Needs
Thu. Jan. 9, 1:00-2:45 pm,
Consider a way to assist students with significant support needs in connecting to employment while in high school.
Register: https://vcurrtc.org/training/webcasts/webcastDetails.cfm/1703
Help! My Kid Won't Go To School! Addressing Chronic Absenteeism in Schools
Fri. Jan. 10, 10:00-11:30 am
Learn about the root causes of school refusal, and how to set supportive boundaries at home.
Register: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfeaDqZPS2t2xZij26RsWpP-Kaq7z7FevppBy-zfAvybMWuNA/viewform?
Sibshops — For Siblings (in Grades 2-6) of a Child with Special Needs
Sat. Jan. 11, 9 am-noon, 3001 Vaden Dr. Fairfax
Siblings share experiences and receive peer support in a relaxed setting with fun games and activities.
Register: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1Kc00Zc0NQsdKafabdmm_L89ogkxIhHbVAeSl63umhsk/viewform?
Next Steps: College, Careers and Beyond
Sat. Jan. 11, 9:00 am-12:30 pm, 21000 Educ. Ct Ashburn
Prepare early for life after graduation by gaining information and resources. Vendor fair 11:00 am-12:30 pm.
Register: https://www.collegesteps.org/calendar-main
Cooking Club with Arc2Independence
Sat. Jan. 11, 10 am-1 pm, 3060 Williams Dr. #300, Fairfax
Learn to use the app, Arc2Independence, to guide students step-by-step through instructional cooking. $25
How to Talk So Schools Will Listen (and Listen so Schools Will Talk)
Fri. Jan. 11, 10 am-noon, Lorton Library, Lorton
Discover communication techniques, recognize and
prevent barriers to communication, and build agreements.
Register: https://bit.ly/49A0vsX
FCPS Math Week
Mon-Fri. Jan. 13-17,
Enjoy a full week of stories, games, and math activities in English and Spanish for families with students in K-6.
Access: mindresearch.org/fcps-math-week
DMV Connect
Mon. Jan. 13, 9:30 am-2:45 pm, 3060 Williams Dr. #300, Fairfax
A Virginia Dept.of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Connect team will be at the Arc and equipped to conduct most DMV transactions.
Pre-Register: https://thearcofnova.org/event/dmv-connect/
Building Strong Parent Advocates — Self-Paced Course
Mon. Jan. 13 to Feb. 3, 6 hours of content
Build a solid foundation to understand the special education process while being empowered to be your child’s best advocate.
Register: https://peatc.org/event/building-strong-parent-advocates-14/?
IEP University (IEPU) — Self-Paced Course
Mon. Jan. 13, to Feb. 3, with access 24/7
Get accurate and useful information about IEP (Individualized Educational Program) development, including practical strategies.
Register:: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/peatc/1467918?
Use Your Words: Getting Community & School Supports in Early Childhood
Tue. Jan.14, noon-1 pm
Learn what to ask for and how to find early childhood specialists, city or county programs, and when to use private alternatives.
The Use Your Words Workshop will empower you to advocate for your child so
Register: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_l4rHZ1F6TmGYnAcnxks7Sw#/registration
Supporting Children and Youth with FASD: Strategies for Home and School
Tue. Jan 14, 7-8pm
Gain strategies for navigating brain function deficits caused by fetal alcohol spectrum disorder while enjoying your child’s strengths.
Register: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/2025-fff-fasd-winter-webinar-series
Middle School Toolkit: Systems for Improving Study Habits, Getting Organized, and Reducing Procrastination
Tue. Jan. 14, 7 pm
Gain study strategies, organizational routines, tips to prevent procrastination and advocacy guides to help your child.
Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_29ItqOaKSzut_pWw2_N4eQ#/registration
Straight Talk about ADHD Treatment: The Pro's and Con's of Medication
Wed. Jan. 15, 6:30 pm
Register: https://labschool-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/2917244297878/WN_k-8KL-IGR1KuHgPGa62FMg#/registration
Onward to Preschool: Taking the Big Step from Early Intervention!
Wed. Jan. 15, 6:30-7:30 pm
Dive into the roles of parents, service coordinators, and educators in ensuring a smooth transition for your little superhero.
Register: https://peatc.org/event/onward-to-preschool-taking-the-big-step-from-early-intervention-2/?
Key Neuropsychological Insights for Guiding Teens to College Success
Wed. Jan. 15, 7:30 - 9:00 pm
High school parents are invited to consider your child’s developing brain as you foster essential life skills for college success.
Ongoing and On Demand Classes
FCPS Special Education and 504 Newsletter
Sign up at News You Choose: https://www.fcps.edu/family-resources/family-communication-resources/news-you-choose
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
Register: https://www.additudemag.com/download/adhd-new-school-year-for-parents/
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.
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
Manifestation Determination Reviews (MDRs) Toolkit
This Toolkit can help a family navigate an MDR process when a student with an IEP is considered for disciplinary action.
Access: https://peatc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Manifestation-Determination-Review-MDR-Toolkit.pdf
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://www.nami.org/support-education/mental-health-education/nami-basics/
Children’s Challenging Behaviors
This 6-hour workshop focuses on children’s challenging behaviors, mental health conditions, special education, and advocacy skills. Register: https://nami-northernvirginia.org/support-and-programs/for-families-and-loved-ones/childrens-challenging-behaviors/
Collaborative & Proactive Solutions — 2 Day Training
Gain an overview of the CPS model including the use of assessments and problem solving. $179
Register: https://cpsconnection.com/virtual-and-in-person-trainings/
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.
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Support Groups for Parents
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.
AAC Parent Group meets occasionally on Saturdays. Contact: Amanda amandam@skillbuildersllc.com 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 BuildingStrongerFamilies@fairfaxcounty.gov or 703-324-7720
Alpha Moms 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 Society of NoVA Parents and Caregivers meets on the 2nd Wednesday of the month, 7-8 pm via Zoom. https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9466001682#success Meeting ID: 946 600 1682; One tap mobile (301) 715-8592
Autism Society of NoVA padres y proveedores de cuidado del grupo de apoyo en españo se reúne el segundo sábado de cada mes de 1 a 2 pm en ServiceSource, 10467 White Granite Dr. Oakton. Estacione en la parte de atrás. Para obtener más información, envíe un correo electrónico a director@asnv.org .
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: BuildingStrongerFamilies@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: Susan, ADHDParentMountVernon@gmail.com or call 303-903-9972.
West Fairfax/Burke CHADD Parent Support Group 1st & 3rd Thur. of each month at 8:00 pm Contact: Cathy, ocgreulich@aol.com
CSB Family Support Group at Gatlan Center 2nd and 4th Wed. of each month 6:00-7:30 pm via Zoom Contact: Samar.Chwairy@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 gbuzby@aol.com or call 703- 545-6089.
Dr. Dan’s Support Group for Parents Raising Challenging Children meets via Zoom on Mondays, 1-2 pm, Register: https://www.parentchildjourney.com/excursions/
Embark in the DC Metro Parent Support Group is for parents of children and youth with mental health challenges. It meets virtually on alternate Thursdays, noon-1 pm. Register: https://www.embarkbh.com/event/dc-metro-virtual-parent-support-group/
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
Formed Families Together hosts monthly peer support groups for adoptive, kinship, and foster caregivers and parents. Virtual support group meets the 1st Sunday evening monthly. In-Person support group meets the 3rd Wednesday evening monthly. Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/formed-families-together-support-groups-tickets-147657582805
Foster the Family Support Group for foster and adoptive moms meets the 2nd Monday of each month, 6:30-8:00 pm in Falls Church. Childcare is provided. Register: https://www.fosterthefamilydc.org/supportgroups
Grupo de educación y apoyo a padres en español se reúne el cuarto sábado de cada mes, de 10 a 11 am en Zoom en https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9466001682 ID de reunión: 946 600 1682
Grupo de apoyo para madres de habla hispana de niños con autismo se reúne mensualmente en línea y está patrocinado por Johns Hopkins Medical Center. Contacto: mariposas.autismo@gmail.com
Hablemos educación especial es un grupo de discusión de padres de habla hispana y de un estudiante autista. Se reúnen virtualmente el primer miércoles de cada mes de 7:00-7:45 pm Registrarse: https://xminds.org/event-4522635
Infinity ABA Parent Connect, for families with a child with autism, meets online on the 2nd Thursday monthly at 7:00-8:30 pm. Guest speakers, discussions, and resources. Register: https://www.infinityaba.com/events/
Kinship Café meets online 6:30-8:00 pm the 1st Wednesday of the month for those raising the children of relatives and friends. To attend, call 703-324-7720 or email BuildingStrongerFamilies@fairfaxcounty.gov
Mesothelioma Veterans Center resources on talking to kids about cancer: https://www.mesotheliomaveterans.org/veterans/talking-to-kids-about-cancer/
Military Families Support Group meets the 3rd Tuesday monthly at 7-8 pm for families of all disabled dependents. Access: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9466001682#success OR Email director@asnv.org for details
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 mczero@yahoo.com
NAMI Family Support Group meets on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays on Zoom for parents of children living with mental health challenges including ADHD, ASD, etc. https://zoom.us/j/94509229914
NAMI Parent & Caregiver Support Group meets on the 4th Thursday monthly. Email namicva.org or call 804-285-1749
NOVA Adopt Friends Parent Peer Support Group for adoptive parents meets on the 3rd Thursdays monthly 6:00-7:30 pm. Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/5687947368
OCD Family Support Group meets the 1st Mon. of each month, 7:30 pm. Contact: ela.mike@verizon.net 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 of Autistic Children (POAC-NOVA) Support Group meets in-person the 1st Saturday monthly at 10:00-11:30 am. RSVP to supportgroup@poac-nova.org to learn the current location.
People of the Global Majority is a discussion group for BIPOC parents of children with autism. They meet virtually on the 1st Monday monthly at 7:00-7:45 pm. Register: https://xminds.org/event-4534279
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 mojgan.pourmand@eastersealsucp.com health
Small Steps Together is a discussion group for parents of preschool and elementary children with autism. They meet virtually on the 4th Monday monthly at 7:00-7:45 pm. Register: https://xminds.org/event-4778134
Virginia Family Network Book Club for parents and caregivers of children living with mental health challenges meets on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays at 7 pm. Contact Nicole Anjum at nanjum@namivirginia.org .
Virginia Family Network Parent Meetup is on the 1st and 3rd Fridays at 8 pm for parents/caregivers of children with mental health challenges. Contact Nicole Anjum at nanjum@namivirginia.org