CARES: Children's Academic Resource & Educational Services: May 2016

ABLE Accounts, Special Needs Trusts, & Financial Planning

Community Rm B, McLean Bible Church 8925 Leesburg Pk. Vienna

Jessica Pannell, Attorney will present information on long term planning for individuals with significant intellectual and developmental disabilities.

RSVP appreciated but not required: erin.roundtree@mcleanbible.org or 703-770-2938

Sadness and Depression in Children and Teens

Tuesday, May 3, 2016: 6:30pm-8:30pm* (Doors open at 6:30pmfor Resource Mini-Fair; Presentation and Q&A - 7:30pm-8:30pm) 

Arlington Public Schools Education Center, 1426 N. Quincy Street, 1st Floor, Arlington, VA 22207 

Featured Speaker: Julia Dorfman, MD, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, Children’s National Medical Center

Are you concerned about your child? Does he or she seem sad, or depressed? Join us in welcoming Julia Dorfman, MD, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist with Children's National Medical Center. Dr. Dorfman will share information on recognizing signs and symptoms of depression in children and teens, and when families should seek professional help. Registration is required. Register online.

Introduction to Special Education

Tuesday, May 3, 2016 7:00 - 9:00 pm

Dunn Loring Center for Parent Services, 2334 Gallows Road Entrance 1 - Room 100 Dunn Loring, VA 22027

This workshop is most appropriate for parents with children in the referral or eligibility phase of the Special Education process; parents who want to know more about how the Special Education process works; and parents with children new to Special Education. This workshop will help parents understand the special education process, build a network of support, collaborate with school staff, and develop an understanding of how to help their child.

Download the flyer

Register online NOW!

Middle School Sibshop

May 4, 2016: 6:30pm-8:30pm

Langston Community Center Multi-purpose Room, First Floor

2121 N. Culpeper Street, Arlington, VA 22207

Middle school students in grades 6-8 who have brothers or sisters with disabilities and or significant health/issues are invited to join us for dinner and a fun evening of games, activities and conversation. Registration is required. Kindly register online or contact the Parent Resource Center at emma.parralsanchez@apsva.us or 703.228.7239 to register or obtain additional information. A $10.00 donation to cover dinner and expenses is requested.

A Behavioral Approach to Language Assessment and Intervention for Children with Autism

May 5 and 6, 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

presented by Dr. Mark Sundberg. Prince William Campus, Verizon Auditorium, George Mason University Science and Technology. Register at http://spedsurvey.gmu.edu/snap/2016/aba_workshop/index.htm.

Mind in the Making - Self-Directed, Engaged Learning

Fri. May 6, 10 am - 12:30 pm

FCPS Parent Resource Center 2334 Gallows Rd., Entr. 1, Dunn Loring

Learn strategies for improving this skill, the importance of it in children's lives, and activities to promote the skill at home. Bring your lunch and stay until 1:30 pm to learn more activities and strategies.

Registration required: www.fcps.edu/dss/osp/prc or 703 941-5788

Special Needs Family Carnival

Saturday, May 7, 1 - 4pm

Manassas Church of Christ, 8110 Signal Hill Road, Manassas, VA

This event is open to all special needs, and disabled children and their families, and includes games, a music room, snacks and a moon bounce, FREE.

Beyond Consequences

Sat. May 7, 9:00 am -3:00 pm

Lutheran Ch. of the Abiding Presence 6304 Lee Chapel Rd. Burke, VA

Learn how to help a child at his core emotional level during times of defiance, aggression, and disrespect so that you can connect with even the most difficult and resistant child.

$20 includes book

Diagnosing Decoding Issues in Students of All Ages

Sat. May 7, 9 am - 12:15 pm

Siena School 1300 Forest Glen Road, Silver Spring, MD

Learn about and practice using Really Great Reading's Diagnostic Decoding Survey, which is an easy and efficient way to detect when students are having word-level reading difficulties and to pinpoint specific decoding weaknesses.

ACPS Understanding the IEP Process

Mon, May 9, 10:00am – 11:30am

T.C. Williams Minnie Howard Campus Room 134, W. Braddock Rd., Alexandria, VA

This workshop is designed to give parents new to ACPS Special Education services a basic understanding of the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process.

Presented by: Janet Reese, ACPS Parent Support Specialist, and Courtney Davis, Ph.D., Coordinator, ACPS Parent Resource Center

http://www.acps.k12.va.us/curriculum/special-education/workshops.pdf

Sensory Story Time

Mondays, May 9, May 16, May 23

Duncan library, 2501 Commonwealth Avenue, Alexandria, VA

Sensory story time geared toward children with special needs includes songs, stories, music and social interaction. Registration required. 703-746-1705

“Waiver Redesign: What Does This Mean for Me?”

Tue, May 10, 7pm – 9pm

The Arc of Greater Prince William/ Muriel Humphrey Center, Training Room 2 13505 Hillendale Drive Woodbridge, VA 22193

This workshop on waiver redesign will focus on history and the DOJ settlement; ID, DD, DS waivers; waiver reform process over the last few years (My Life, My Community); what we know of the new waivers; addressing the waitlist; IFSP; and more. Jessica “Flip” Grey, Case Management Operations Manager for Moms in Motion, is the mother of two daughters, one of whom has Asperger’s and epilepsy. Pursuing a graduate degree in social work, Ms. Grey aspires to become an even more empowered advocate for persons living with disabilities. Heather Jennelle is the Division Manager for Service Facilitation/Prince William and surrounding counties for Moms in Motion. The former owner of Caterpillar Clubhouse where she served children both with and without disabilities in a preschool setting, Ms. Jennelle is also the mother of a daughter with autism.

There is no charge to attend; however, pre-registration is required and limited to 60. Childcare is available by pre-registration only.

To pre-register, contact Jan Russell at jrussell@arcgpw.org. If requesting childcare or interpreter services, you must pre-register by Thursday, May 5, 2016.

2016 Advocacy Symposium!

May 10-11, 2016

Stonewall Jackson Hotel in Staunton Virginia

You are formally invited to participate in a Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) and Parent Educational Advocacy Training Center (PEATC) co-sponsored FREE symposium for those involved in special education advocacy in Virginia.

The symposium will begin with registration on May 10th at 9 am. Program activities begin promptly at 10 am. The symposium will end on May 11th at 4:30 pm.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: APRIL 22, 2016

To submit your application for the 2016 Advocacy Symposium, please complete the application at:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NMW5L9N

This year’s GUEST SPEAKERS and TOPICS include:

“Legal Updates on IEP/FAPE Issues” and “The Impact of ESSA (IEP and FAPE issues) Other Legal Issues and Trends”

Art Cernosia, Attorney and Education Consultant from Williston, Vermont

“Creating Agreement”

Diane Autin, Executive Co-Director of the Statewide Parent Advocacy Network (SPAN)

“COPAA Voluntary Code of Ethics for Advocates and Implications for Practice”

Denise Stile Marshall, Executive Director of the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates, Inc. (COPAA)

“Collaborative Advocacy and Effective Communication”

Crystal Shin, Clinical Assistant Professor of Law and the Managing Attorney of William and Mary’s Special Education Advocacy Clinic

Contact PEATC at 800-869-6782 or partners@peatc.org with any questions or cancellations

Developing Play Skills and Building Communication through Play

Wed, May 11, 9am – 11am

LCPS Administrative Building 21000 Education Court, Ashburn, 20148

The information is intended for the parents (not the child) of children on the Autism Spectrum or Related Developmental Disabilities.

This presentation is designed for children who are just acquiring or have not yet developed play skills.

Topics include the purpose and characteristics of play, different types of play, ways to enhance play, and how to use shared, social experiences to build early communication skills.

Life Experiences of Deaf/Hard-of-Hearing College-Aged Students: A Panel Discussion 

May 11, 2016: 7:00pm-8:30pm

Syphax Education Center, 2110 Washington Boulevard, Room 105, Arlington, VA 22204

 Facilitated by Laura Cunningham and Dr. Gina Gomez

Join us and meet a successful and diverse group of deaf and hard of hearing college students who will discuss their lives and educational experiences, and answer participant questions. Families, staff, and community members are welcome to attend. Registration is required. Register online.

Super Sibs Club

May 12, 2016: 4:00pm-6:00pm

Walter Reed Community Center, 2909 16th St S, Arlington, VA 22204

Super Sibs Club is a series of Sibshops - peer recreation and support sessions for students, grades 2-5, who have brothers or sisters with disabilities, special needs, and/or significant health issues. Donations for activity fees* to cover the costs of snacks and materials are requested as follows - $10. for 4 hour sessions, (includes lunch) and $5 for 2 hour sessions (includes snacks). *Activity fee waivers are available. Registration is required. Kindly Register Online, or contact the Parent Resource Center at emma.parralsanchez@apsva.us or 703.228.7239 to register or obtain additional information.

View 2015-16 flyer

Pediatric Anxiety Seminar: Coping Strategies for Anxious Children Ages 8-17

May 13, 2016, 10:00 am - noon

Dunn Loring Center for Parent Services, 2334 Gallows Road, Entrance 1, Room 100, Dunn Loring, VA

What Parents Need to Know

Presented by Erin D. Berman, Ph.D. Clinical Psychologist, National Institute of Mental Health, topics from this important seminar will include:

* how to identify an anxious child,

* how to change anxious thinking,

* the science and biological roots of anxiety in children,

* how computer technology is transforming the understanding of anxiety, and

* current treatment options, including medications and cognitive behavioral therapy.

All workshops are FREE to parents, educators and community members. For more information, visit us at http://www.fcps.edu/dss/osp/prc/index.shtml or call 703-204-3941.

Aspire to Excellence - DREAM, EXPLORE, CREATE YOUR OWN PATH!

Saturday, May 14, 2016: 9:00am to 3:00pm

Wakefield High School, 1325 S. Dinwiddie Street, Arlington, VA 22206

Have you ever wondered what your child will become when he or she grows up? Dr. Patrick K. Murphy, Superintendent, invites all APS students and their families to explore students' individual paths, plan for the future, and connect with career professionals. Join us for a fun day for the whole family to:

• Explore careers based on individual interests

• Plan early for success

• Establish academic goals for the future of each student

Workshops will be available in English and Spanish, and lunch will be provided. Pre-registration is strongly encouraged. Register online.

World or Possibilities Expo

Sat, May 14, 11am – 4pm

Holiday Inn Arlington at Ballston, Arlington, VA

http://expo.caringcommunities.org

Features include:

• Free Parking

• Free Wheelchair Rentals and Emergency Repair Services, Representatives from Stuart's Medical and Sales will be available for emergency repairs

• Many Exhibitors: Exhibitors will share their knowledge and expertise about their equipment/supplies. See exhibitor link http://expo.caringcommunities.org/exhibitors_timonium.php

• Product Demonstrations: Selected vendors will have assigned times to demonstrate their products

• Local Agencies and Support Groups

• Workshop (More to be Scheduled): “Be Your Own Boss-Everyone IS EMPLOY-ABLE!” 12:30p

This interactive programs helps you move past your boundaries and soar as you test your wings! You will explore qualities that employers want to see in candidates and the qualities that would make you a successful entrepreneur! Resources will be shared as well as valuable tips to making the transition easier and more fun! Marcia Merrill has 25+ years in the Career Development & Transitions fields. She also has a disability and has been a successful entrepreneur for 11 of those years!

• Mobility Dog Demonstration. 12:30-1:00 and 2:30-3:00

• Book Signings:

1) A Journey of Hearts: Navigating Through Life Experiences: A collaborative book of journeys that will inspire, empower, motivate & uplift you creating hope for those going through similar situations.

2) Living in a World of Possibilities, Living in a World of Possibilities by Mona Freedman RN. Living in a World of Possibilities is a nice companion to the World of Possibilities Disabilities Expo and a way to get wonderful, inspirational and motivational words out to assist individuals who are living with challenging issues.

• Sunshine Models on Wheels Demo 1:30p

• Much, Much More!!

Learning about SSDI, SSI, Medicare & Medicaid

Sun. May 15, 1 - 3:30 pm

Trinity Presbyterian Church, 5533 N.16th St Arlington

Learn how SSDI, SSI, Medicare & Medicaid might be helpful to you or a family member. An introduction will be followed by a panel presentation and Q&A.

www.nami-northernvirginia.org

Building Independence Through Transportation and Mobility

May 19, 7:00-9:00 p.m.

Jewish Community Center, 8900 Little River Turnpike, Fairfax, VA 22301

Lecture and resource fair.

RSVP Carey Alford, (703) 865-6502 or calford@financialguide.com.

Raising Your Kids by Keeping Your Cool!

Friday, May 20, 2016 10:00 am - noon

Dunn Loring Center for Parent Services, 2334 Gallows Road Entrance 1 - Room 100 Dunn Loring, VA 22027

Keeping Your Cool means taking care of YOU! The most important thing you can do for your family is to take care of yourself. Put your own oxygen mask on first and create the mutually respectful, cooperative and loving relationship that you crave with your child. Don’t miss this interactive workshop to learn strategies to become the cool, calm, connected parent your child really needs.

REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED.

Download the flyer

Register online NOW!

Dyslexia Simulation

Sun, May 22, 4:00pm – 5:30pm

St. Stephen's United Methodist Church - 9203 Braddock Road, Burke, VA 22015

Presented by Decoding Dyslexia Virginia. We will walk participants through a dyslexia simulation created by the Dyslexia Training Institute.

Dyslexia for a Day: A Simulation of Dyslexia is a presentation for individuals or groups of experienced teachers, teacher training candidates, practitioners, immediate and extended family members, or anyone interested in learning more about dyslexia and what those with dyslexia often experience with reading, writing and processing. The presentation walks participants through a number of different reading and writing simulations. It is designed to help individuals gain a better understanding of and empathy for those children and adults who struggle with dyslexia.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ddva-dyslexia-simulation-tickets-24787012622

JUNE

Summer Mindfulness

Summer is the perfect time to practice mindfulness techniques with your children

Friday, June 3, 2016 10:00 am - noon

Dunn Loring Center for Parent Services (map) 2334 Gallows Road Entrance 1 - Room 100 Dunn Loring, VA 22027

Join us to learn valuable mindfulness tools to help your children enhance their physical, mental, emotional, and social skills this summer. Learn yoga poses and “off the yoga mat” breathing techniques your children can use to help manage stress and difficult emotions. These tools can support children and adolescents by reducing anxiety, while increasing the ability to self-calm, focus and sustain attention. Mindfulness techniques can also help strengthen self-confidence and self-esteem.

Download the flyer

Register online NOW!

Tech Thursday- Write On Into Summer!

Join us for some great ideas on how to encourage your children to Write On Into Summer!

Thursday, June 9, 2016 10:00 am - noon

Dunn Loring Center for Parent Services (map) 2334 Gallows Road Entrance 1 - Room 100 Dunn Loring, VA 22027

Explore FUN websites that your children will want to use to practice writing over the summer! Learn about technology tools and strategies available to students in Fairfax County Public Schools that can help struggling writers.

Download the flyer

Recurring Events

OCD Family Support Group

First Mondays 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.

202-215-5859 familygroupocd@verizon.net

Youth and Young Adults: Stronger Together

Alternate Thursdays at 6:30 - 8:00 pm, Fairfax, VA

4031 University Dr., Suite 100, Fairfax, VA 22030

Apr 19; May 3, 17.

Formed Families Forward hosts Stronger Together peer-to-peer support groups.

We believe that youth and young adults really are stronger when they share their experiences and work together to improve their own lives and the systems that are supposed to help youth and families.

The group is designed for teens and young adults, ages 14-22, who have lived experiences in one or more service systems such as:

• Social services (foster care, child welfare, family services)

• Special education (learning or emotional disability or other condition)

• Mental health services

• Substance use treatment/recovery

Light dinner of pizza and salad will be served.

Lunch Bunch

The Autism Society Northern Virginia, Down Syndrome Association Northern Virginia and The Arc of Northern Virginia now offer our popular informative Lunch Bunch Meetings on Saturday. Every second Saturday of the month, from noon to 2pm at ASNV. Bring a bag lunch and talk to experts about your questions and concerns in navigating the maze of services for individuals with disabilities and on the spectrum.

The number of families is limited to provide personalized information, so RSVP to ASNV at 703-495-8444 and ask to RSVP for LUNCH BUNCH. Topics include what is on the top of your list, but also can include: Getting a diagnosis, Medicaid Waivers, IEP's and other school issues, Guardianship, Special Needs Trusts, Recreation, Transportation, and Housing.

ASNV 10467 White Granite Dr. 3rd Floor Oakton, VA 22124

CHADD: Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

West Fairfax CHADD Parent Support Group

Meets each 2nd & 4th Thurs. at 7:30 pm

Room 201 at Fairfax Church of Christ, 3901 Rugby Road, Fairfax, VA 22033

Contact Sharon 703 716-4646 or clintob@aol.com.

Support Group for Middle School Students with ADHD

Meets the 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

Meets the first Sunday of each month 3:30 - 5:00 pm