INFORMATION
Everyday Oz
MVLE Moves! is excited to debut its inaugural performance, ‘Everyday Oz’ this spring. ‘Everyday Oz’ is a family-friendly performance that partners MVLE individuals with professional performers. Equal parts zany and poetic, ‘Everyday Oz’ includes active audience participation to reveal the ways that we are smart, compassionate, brave, and creative…every day!
The production will be performed at all three of MVLE’s Community Centers and then the Fairfax County Government Building May 1,
the USO Family Center at Ft. Belvoir May 16,
and the Millennium Stage at the Kennedy Center on May 21. All performances are open to the general public and are FREE to attend.
The ‘Everyday Oz’ performance is possible in part by funding from the National Endowment for the Arts.
Questions about ‘Everyday Oz’ please contact Sarah Caldwell at Sarah.Caldwell@mvle.org or
|
Community Events
APRIL
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.
SCREENAGERS
Tuesday, April 18, 7:00 pm – Light refreshments, 7:30 pm – Movie showing
St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School, Upper School Campus - Chapel & Performing Arts Center, 1000 St. Stephen's Road, Alexandria, Virginia 22304
Presented by the St. Stephen's & St. Agnes School and the SSSAS Association of Parents and Teachers
Free and open to the public
Appropriate for students ages 11 and older, parents, grandparents, educators, and all adults
who interact with or care about children.
The award-winning movie SCREENAGERS probes into the vulnerable corners of family life, including the director's own, and depicts messy struggles over social media, video games, academics, and internet addiction. Through surprising insights from authors and brain scientists, solutions emerge on how we can empower kids to best navigate the digital world.
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.
The ARC of Northern VA, 2755 Hartland Rd., Suite 200, Falls Church, VA 22043
Transition to Employment will help families plan for employment for their child with a disability after high school. Learn from presentations by the Department of Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS) and an employment provider panel featuring representatives from MVLE, ServiceSource, Inc., The Choice Group and Next Level Transition Consulting. A light lunch will be provided.
Also available via webinar. To register go to https:thearcofnova.org/
Yoga/Dance for Individuals with Special Needs
6350 Rolling Mill Place, West Springfield, VA,
Saturday, April 22, 3pm to 4:30pm
$25 per person
Yoga/Dance brings joy, inspiration, connection and fun to participants with gentle guidance toward the integration of body awareness, breath and spirit! Motivating music and yoga poses stimulate creative expression, delight in moving with others, and bring a sense of focus and relaxation.
AGES: 18+
Requirements for Participation:
1. Able to walk independently
2. Mild to moderate developmental delays
3. Ability to participate in a group activity
Advanced registration is required and class size is limited so sign up early to ensure your spot in this special workshop class!
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
Community Workshop: Protecting Children From Sexual Abuse
Tuesday, April 25, 6:30pm
Falls Church City Hall, Dogwood Room, G Level, 300 Park Ave., Falls Church, VA
Join our community for an empowering training to learn 5 steps of protecting children.
FREE, Registration required - e mail tleonard@scanva.org
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.
I’m Determined Workshop
Wednesday, April 26, 9am-11am
Syphax Education center, 2110 Washington Blvd., Rooms 101/103, Arlington, VA 22204
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.
Community Conversation on Youth Suicide Prevention
Thursday, April 27, 1:30 pm - 4:00 pm
Fairfax County Public Schools’ Virginia Hills Center, 6500 Diana Lane, Alexandria, 22310.
The more a community knows about suicide, the better equipped it is to prevent such tragic deaths
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!
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
Teens Work! Career Fair
Thursday, April 27, 3-5pm
T.C. Williams High School, Cafeteria, King St., Alexandria, VA
The City of Alexandria Workforce Development Center will host the career fair for ages 16-21. Make insider connections, get details on vocational training and career education programs, and meet face-to-face with employees offering opportunities. For more information, contact Octavius Fulton (703) 746.5857
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
Professional Workshop: 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.
USA Science & Engineering Expo: X-STEM
Fri, April 28, 9:30am – 3:00pm
Walter E. Washington Convention Center, 801 Mt Vernon Pl NW, Washington, DC 20001
Students in grades 6-12 have the unique opportunity to experience hands-on presentations from some of the most inspiring names in STEM!
$20 per attendee
register: https://www.eply.com/2017XSTEM
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 to PatientFocused@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/
The Role of Restorative Practices in Building Emotional Literacy
Thursday, May 4, 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
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
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
State Complaint Procedures Workshop: Presenter Hank Milward,VDOE
Wed, May 10, 7:00pm – 8:30pm
PEATC Office, 8003 Forbes Place, Suite. 310 Springfield, VA 22151
This workshop is designed to provide participants with information regarding the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) state complaint resolution procedures. Discussion will focus on collaboratively resolving disputes between parents and their school division on matters related to the special education process and how to determine what constitutes a dispute needing a more formal intervention. During the workshop, participants will be guided through the state complaint resolution process and how to write a state complaint that meets the sufficiency standards of applicable state and federal special education laws and regulations. Information regarding mediation and due process hearings will also be shared with participants. All participants will receive several take away documents regarding dispute resolution.
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.
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.
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.
JUNE
Hidden Talents Shine Up 2017
Sat., June 3, 4:00-9:00 p.m.
King of Kings Lutheran Church, 4025 Kings Way, Fairfax, VA
Performances, Music, Dance, Magic Show, Balloons, Prizes, Food and On-Site Childcare for children with disabilities and special needs.
People interested in performing at the event should email yoursunshine@teachers.
Tickets can be purchased on line at https://yoursunshine.
Family Movie Night - RESILIENCE screening
Fri, June 9, 2017, 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Offices of Formed Families Forward, 4031 University Drive, Suite 100, Fairfax, Va 22030
Children, youth, parents and caregivers are all welcome. Light dinner served to all at 6 PM; movies start at 6:30.
Children will enjoy a G-rated movie and snacks, supervised by skilled caregivers. Next door, parents, caregivers and interested older youth will screen the recent documentary Resilience: The Biology of Stress and the Science of Hope
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: 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: 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
