Community Events
March
ADHD Is Not A Choice: The Impacts of ADHD/Executive Functioning on Teens
Wednesday, March 29th, 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Choral Room, E146, Woodson HS, 9525 Main Street, Fairfax, VA 22031
Teens struggle in a variety of ways as they grow towards independence and maturity. These challenges can be amplified in teens with attention and executive function deficits. We will discuss how development in the teen with ADHD or ADD, with Executive Function deficits, differs and how parents and educators can support these teens to create resiliency, self-advocacy and improved learning skills.
Presented by:
* Catherine Adams, President of the ADHD Resource Group of Northern Virginia
* Patricia M. Hudak, PCC, BCC, Co-Chair of CHADD of Northern Virginia and the District of Columbia
APRIL
12th annual Special Education Conference!
Saturday, April 1, 2017, 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Hayfield Secondary School, 7630 Telegraph Road, Alexandria, Virginia 22315
Register today for this event that will include 60 workshops, 6 guest speakers, book sales, and over 80 exhibitors! The keynote speaker is Dr. Nancy Mather.
►Parents and Educators can register online at https://www.fcps.edu/node/
►View the conference agenda at
►FCPS Educators who attend the entire conference can earn five recertification points.
The conference, designed for parents and educators of students who receive special education services or who have learning challenges or special needs, will feature Nancy Mather, Ph.D., professor of special education at the University of Arizona, as the keynote speaker. Mather will discuss “Elephant in the Room: What We Overlook Regarding Struggling Readers,” that will address issues affecting the identification of students who struggle with reading and appropriate interventions.
Job Fair for Teens
Saturday, April 1, noon - 2 p.m.
West Springfield High School, 6100 Rolling Road, Springfield, VA
Local businesses and agencies will be on hand to offer a range of opportunities including part-time jobs, internships, and volunteer work.
Registration: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/
Electronics and Social Media: A Guide for Parents
Wed., April 5, 6:30-8:00 p.m.
T.C. Williams High School, 3330 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22302.
Presented by Amy Fortney Parks, Ph.D.
The workshop is free, but registration is required. To register, or for more information, contact Janet Reese, janet.reese@acps.k12.
Fostering Resilience in a Stressful World
Thursday, April 6, 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Loudoun County Public School Administration Building, 21000 Education Ct. Ashburn, VA
Dr. Karin H. Spencer, Parent Resource Services
Today’s world is stressful- often rushed, hurried and on-the-go. Children and families juggle a host of extracurricular activities with homework, friendships, and everyday tasks. Anxiety and stress related to peer pressure, family issues, and academics can start early. We may not be able to erase daily stress or prevent adversity. However, we can nurture resilience in our children so that they are better able to respond to life’s challenges. Join this presentation to learn about the impact of stress on development as well as strategies to nurture resilience.
Future Fridays Alternatives to Guardianship and Supported Decision-Making
Friday, April 7, 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
The ARC of Northern Virginia, 2755 Hartland Road, Falls Church, VA 22043.
The Arc of Greater Prince William Easter Egg Hunt
Sun., April 9, 3:00-5:00 p.m.
13505 Hillendale Drive, Woodbridge, VA 22193.
Learning and Your Child’s Brain: What the Research Suggests
Wednesday, April 12, 8:30am-11am
Holton-Arms School, 7303 River Road, Bethesda, MD 20817
Presented by The Parents Council of Washington.
Speaker: Glenn Whitman, Director of the Center for Transformative Teaching & Learning at St. Andrew’s Episcopal School and co-author of Neuroteach: Brain Science and the Future of Education
This program is open to all! Invite a friend to join you!
Download the 2017 Spring Speaker Flyer.
Postsecondary Education and Employment Options for Students with IEPs
Tues. Apr.18, 6:30 – 8:30 pm
Woodson HS Cafeteria A, 9525 Main Street, Fairfax, VA
This event for students with IEPs and their parents will highlight supported employment, competitive employment and postsecondary education.
Finding Employment that Works for Individuals with Asperger's Syndrome
Wednesday, April 19,10:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.
Marymount University, 2807 North Glebe Road, Arlington, VA 22207.
Presented by Barbara Bissonnette of Forward Motion Coaching, a specialist in career development coaching for individuals with Asperger's Syndrome. There is a fee to attend this workshop. (617) 690-2127, barbara@
Adolescence and ASD: Executive Function, Self-Awareness and Transition to Adulthood
Wed. Apr. 19, 7:30 - 9:00 pm
Auburn School, 3800 Concorde Pkwy. Suite 500, Chantilly, VA
Dr. John Strang, PsyD.
Register: http://www.theauburnschool.
Neurodevelopmental Science and Social-Emotional Development: Building Relationships at Home and In the Classroom,
Thurs., April 20, 2017, 3:30-7:00 p.m.
Westminster Presbyterian Church, 2701 Cameron Mills Dr., Alexandria, VA 22302
Presented by Dr. Beth Tuckwiller through Children Together. This workshop focuses on birth through age 5. There is a fee to attend, and registration is required. Contact Karen Pearson, 1018 Beverly Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 or childrentogether@gmail.org. People seeking scholarships to attend should contact Carol Keller at (703) 671-3939 by April 7, 2017. www.children-together.
Mind in the Making - Self-Directed, Engaged Learning
Fri. Apr. 21, 10 am – 12:30 pm
Dunn Loring Ctr. Ent. 1, 2334 Gallows Rd. Dunn Loring, VA
Learn the research behind why self-directed, engaged learning is one of the Seven Essential Life Skills. Learn strategies and activities for improving this skill for you children.
Transition to Employment Workshop: Helping Families Plan for Employment
Fri., April 21, 12:00-2:00 p.m.
Also available via webinar. To register go to https:thearcofnova.org/
SpringFest 2017
Sun. Apr. 23, 2:00 - 4:30 pm
Stambaugh Serv. Ctr. 2100 Washington Blvd., Arlington, VA
Young adults and teens: Have fun with spring plant potting, prizes, and a group discussion about mental health led by our Young Adult Leaders.
Register: http://events.r20.
Fairfax County Special Education PTA Charter Meeting
Tues. Apr. 25, 7 - 9 pm
Fairfax Circle Church 3110 Chichester Lane, Fairfax, VA
Come be a Charter member of this PTA that focuses on the needs and interests of all FCPS parents and teachers of students with disabilities. Dues $TBD
Next Stop
Tue. Apr. 25, 7 – 8:30 pm
Dunn Loring Center Ent. 1, 2334 Gallows Rd. Dunn Loring, VA
Author, Glen Finland will share hard-won lessons, strategies and insights she has learned about the uniquely individual dynamics of families of children with special needs.
Using Nutrition to improve Biochemistry of Development, Learning, and Mood
Wed. Apr. 26 , 7:30 pm
Oakwood School, 7210 Braddock Road Annandale
Presented by Kelly Dorfman
Making the Move to Independent Housing for People with Disabilities
Wednesday, Apr. 26, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Media Center, Minnie Howard, 3801 W. Braddock Road, Alexandria, VA
Presented by Jeannie Cummins, Senior Integrated Community Options Specialist, Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services.
For more information or to register, contact Janet Reese, janet.reese@acps.k12.
Autism & Safety
Thursday, April 27, 2017
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Dunn Loring Center for Parent Services, 2334 Gallows Road, Entrance 1 - Room 100, Dunn Loring, VA
Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other cognitive disabilities may not recognize danger, react well in an emergency or be able to seek help. Attend this workshop to learn safety risks for individuals with special needs, proactive steps to reduce the risk of potential dangers, information on the NEW Yellow Dot Program and more!
Register online now or call us at 703-204-3941
Special Needs Housing Workshop
Thurs., April 27, 7:00-9:00 p.m.
Jewish Community Center of Northern Virginia, 8900 Little River Turnpike, Fairfax, VA 22031.
This workshop is free, but reservations are requested. Contact Carey Alford at (703) 865-6502 or calford@financialguide.com
10th Annual International ADHD Professionals Conference
Friday and Saturday, April 28-30, 2017
Reston, Virginia
Sponsored by the ADHD Coaches Organization (ACO)
The conference is designed for coaches and other professionals working within the ADHD community.
For Registration and more information
What Really Works and What Doesn't For Challenging Kids
Friday, April 28, 8 am - 12:30 pm
4031 University Dr., Fairfax ,VA
Formed Families Forward and the ADHD Resource Group of Northern Virginia are pleased to host Dr. Bruce Thyer, Professor of Social Work at Florida State University and author of Science and Pseudoscience in Social Work Practice, for a half-day workshop. Dr. Thyer will provide insight into some of the most common and most controversial interventions for working with children, youth and families.
Dr. Thyer will cover science and pseudoscience in:
• Clinical assessment
• Treating children and adolescents, including those with emotional and behavioral needs, such as conduct disorders, ADHD, anxiety disorders and autism
• Treating those who have experienced trauma
• Addressing the unique needs of persons with developmental disabilities
• Evaluating and selecting sounds practices and discouraging pseudoscience
This interactive workshop is designed for social work, counseling, education, psychology and other professionals. Registration is $50 and includes breakfast.
Job Fair for Teens
Saturday. April 29, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
South County High School, 8501 Silverbrook Road, Lorton, VA
Local businesses and agencies will be on hand to offer a range of opportunities including part-time jobs, internships, and volunteer work.
Registration: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/
Spring Forward Family Fun Day
Saturday, April 29, 9:30 AM- 3:30 PM
Providence Community Center, 3001 Vaden Drive, Fairfax, VA
Join our annual celebration of families formed by adoption, foster care and kinship connections!
Children will enjoy a morning of games and activities while parents, caregivers and older youth participate in inspiring personal development workshops.
Cost is $5 per person, and includes all activities, light breakfast, and boxed lunch. Children under age 3 are free, but must be registered.
Children and youth with special needs are welcome; please be sure to describe the specific needs when you register, so we can be ready!
MAY
The Caregiver’s Toolbox: Practical Strategies for Preventing Burnout
Mon. May 1, 7:30 - 9:00 pm.
McLean Bible Church, Com. Rm. B, 8925 Leesburg Pk., Vienna
Avoid caregiver burnout by using tools for self care and maintaining healthy relationships.
RSVP appreciated, but not required: Emily.Johnson@mcleanbible.org or 703-770-2938
Patient-Focused Drug Development for Autism
Thursday, May 4, 2017, 1pm – 5pm
FDA, White Oak Campus, 10903 New Hampshire Ave., Great Room (Enter at Building 1 to clear security), Silver Spring, MD 20993
FDA is conducting a public meeting on Patient-Focused Drug Development for Autism. FDA is interested in obtaining patient perspectives on the impact of autism on daily life and patient views on treatment approaches. Patient-Focused Drug Development is part of FDA’s performance commitments made as part of the fifth authorization of the Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA V). The public meeting is intended to allow FDA to obtain patient perspectives on the impact of autism on daily life, patient views on treatment approaches for autism.
For each of these topics, a panel of patients and patient representatives/advocates will present comments to begin the dialogue and will be followed by a facilitated discussion inviting comments from all patients and patient representatives in the audience.
If you are attending the meeting in person and are interested in providing comments as part of the initial panel discussion, indicate so during the registration process. Potential panelists must send a brief summary of responses to the discussion questions toPatientFocused@fda.hhs.gov
by April 17th. Panelists will be confirmed prior to the meeting.
There will also be an opportunity for patients, patient representatives and others to provide comments on issues other than the Topic 1 and Topic 2 Discussion Questions (see below) during an Open Public Comment session.
Sign-up for Open Public Comment will take place the day of the meeting.
Webcast participants will also have an opportunity to provide input through webcast comments.
For more information, refer to the FDA meeting website at: http://www.fda.gov/
Carnival: Family and Friends Day
Sat., May 6, 1:00-3:00 p.m.
8922 Little River Turnpike, Fairfax, VA 22031 (field behind the firehouse).
Hosted by the J's Special Needs Department and the Washington Group Special Care Planning Team. In the event of rain, the activity will be moved next door to the Jewish Community Center, 8900 Little River Turnpike. The event is free, but registration is required. To register, contact Tenia Mitchell by April 28, tenia.mitchell@jccnv.org, (703) 537-3035
The Role of Restorative Practices in Building Emotional Literacy
Thursday, May 6, 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Loudoun County Public School Admin. Building, 21000 Education Ct. Ashburn, VA
Suzanne Petersen, Supervisor Student Support Services
Join Suzanne Peterson, Supervisor of School Social Workers to learn how the implementation of Restorative Practices increases social and emotional learning for children and helps them successfully resolve conflict, communicate clearly, solve problems, and much more. Learn how the use of restorative language and circles teaches children empathy and self-awareness and creates a safe learning environment
39th Annual Corporate and Community Team Challenge
Sunday, May 7
Burke Lake Park, 7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station, VA 22039
RUN, WALK, VOLUNTEER - GO THE DISTANCE for people with disabilities,.
Understanding the IEP Process
Mon., May 8, 10:00-11:30 a.m.
Alexandria Parent Resource Center. Room 134, Minnie Howard Campus, T.C. Williams High School, 3801 W. Braddock Road, Alexandria, VA 22302
Presented by Janet Reese, ACPS Parent Support Specialist, and Dr. Courtney Davis, Coordinator,. Space is limited and registration is required. Call (703) 824-0129 or e-mail janet.reese@acps.k12.va.us or
Calming the Anxious Waters
Fri, May 12, 10 am - noon,
Dunn Loring Ctr. Ent. 1, 2334 Gallows Rd. Dunn Loring
Join us to learn simple yet effective strategies to build calm minds and bodies in preschool and elementary age children with anxiety.
Register: www.fcps.edu/node/28279 or 703 204-3941
Medication Intervention for ADHD and Autism
Tues. May 16, 7:00-8:30 p.m.
The Arc of Greater Prince William/Muriel Humphrey Training Center, Training Room 2, 13505 Hillendale Drive, Woodbridge, VA 22193
Presented by Dr. Joni Johnson. The workshop is free, but registration is required. To register, contact Jan Russell at jrussell@arcgpw.org.
Control the Clutter: Piles into Files
Wed. May 17, 6:30 - 8:00 pm
4031 University Av. Fairfax (enter on South St), VA
Learn high- and low-tech strategies for managing medical and educational events and records, including tracking symptoms and setting reminders.
Register: http://formedfamiliesforward.
Mindful Parenting: Remaining Calm While Improving Family Dynamics
Thursday, May 18, 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Loudoun County Public School, Admin. Building, 21000 Education Ct. Ashburn, VA
Donilee Alexander-Goldsmith, LCPS School Social Worker & Michelle Bogdan, LCSW, MLB Therapy PLLC
Join Donilee Alexander-Goldsmith, LCPS School Social Worker, and Michelle Bogdan, LCSW, to learn about Mindfulness and Mindful Parenting. Mindfulness is noticing your thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations in the present moment without judgement. Learn how to utilize Mindfulness in your role as a parent to support your children in improving focus, reducing anxiety, and being more present in each moment.
RECURRING AND ONGOING EVENTS
Autism Acceptance Night @ Flight
Tuesdays 5:00pm-7:00pm
Flight Trampoline Park, 7200 Fullerton Road, Springfield, VA 22150
JCCNV Special Needs Parent Support Group
1st Wed. of each month, 7:00–8:30 pm
Youth and Young Adults: Stronger Together
Alternate Tuesdays, October 4 through May 2017, 6:30-8:00 pm in Fairfax., VA
Sponsored by Formed Families Forward, this peer-to-peer support group for youth ages 14 - 22 meets twice a month through May. Parents, caregivers and guardians meet at the same time. Register: formedfamiliesforwa
People First for Young Adults
2nd Tue. monthly, 6:30 - 8:00 pm
The Arc , 2755 Hartland Rd Suite 200, Falls Church
Youth with disabilities ages 14-26 practice public speaking skills, plan social outings, learn from guest speakers on topics of life skills and advocacy, and do projects to enhance social skills.
Information: Diane Monnig 703 208-1119 x 118
ACPS Monthly Support Group for Parents of Students with Moderate to Severe Disabilities
Wednesdays: Apr. 6, May 10 and June 14, 9:30-10:45 a.m.
Parent Resource Center, Minnie Howard Campus of T. C. Williams High School, Room 134
3801 W. Braddock Road, Alexandria, VA
Please join us for support, strategies and conversation.
For more information, contact Janet Reese, ACPS Parent Support Specialist, janet.reese@acps.k12.va.us, or Courtney Davis, Ph.D., ACPS Parent Resource Center Coordinator, courtney.davis@acps.k12.va.us, 703-824-0129.
Monthly Support Group for Parents of Young Children Receiving Special Education Services (Preschool-First Grade) in ACPS
Tuesdays: Apr. 4, May 2 and June 6, from 9:30-10:45 a.m.
Parent Resource Center, Minnie Howard Campus of T. C. Williams High School, Room 134
3801 W. Braddock Road, Alexandria, VA
Please join us for support, strategies and conversation.
For more information, contact Janet Reese, ACPS Parent Support Specialist, janet.reese@acps.k12.va.us, or Courtney Davis, Ph.D., ACPS Parent Resource Center Coordinator, courtney.davis@acps.k12.va.us, 703-824-0129.
West Fairfax CHADD Parent Support Group
1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month, 7:30 pm
Room 201 at Fairfax Church of Christ, 3901 Rugby Road, Fairfax, VA 22033
Alexandria CHADD Parent Support Group
4th Mon. of each month at 6:30 pm
Support Group for Middle School Students with ADHD
First Sunday of each month, 2:00 - 3:00 pm
4031 Univ. Dr Fairfax, VA (enter on South St.)
No parents!
Support Group for High School Students with ADHD
First Sunday of each month, 3:30 - 5:00 pm
4031 Univ. Dr., Fairfax, VA (enter on South St.) No parents!
NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness
Works to build better lives for those affected by mental illness.
Oakton Family Support Group
First Thurs. of each month, 7:30-9:00 pm
The Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Fairfax, Room 9, 2709 Hunter Mill Rd., Fairfax, VA
Alexandria Family Support Group
Second Wednesday of the month, 7:30-9:00 pm,
First Christian Church of Alexandria, 2723 King St., Alexandria, VA
Fairfax Family Support Group
Second Thur. of each month 7:30-9:00 pm
Springfield Family Support Group
Fourth Thur. of each month 7:00-8:30 pm
For other Family Support Groups visit http://www.nami-
OCD Family Support Group
First Monday of the Month, 7:30pm – 9:30pm
St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 4000 Lorcom, Lane, Arlington, VA
For family and friends of those with obsessive compulsive disorder.
POAC: Parents of Autistic Children of Northern Virginia
Bimonthly Support Group
