Summer Story Time at the PRC: A Virtual Webinar for Families 

The Seven Essential Life Skills Every Child Needs

Join us for Story Time for children ages 5-8 and their families! 

This Story Time will highlight books and activities to support the executive functioning skills of your child. Tip sheets, book lists and activities will be sent to each family so that the skills can be practiced at home.

This is an evidence-based program focusing on the Seven Essential Life Skills Every Child Needs. Register for one or all sessions.
            
July 7:   Focus and Self Control
July 9:     Perspective Taking
July 14: Communicating
July 16: Making Connections
July 21: Critical thinking
July 23: Taking on Challenges
July 28: Self-Directed, Engaged Learning

Tuesdays and Thursdays July 7 - July 28, 2020, 10:00 – 10:45 a.m. 

Register for Summer Story Time at the PRC: A Virtual Webinar for Families

The Juggle: Building Your Resilience through Self-Care: A Webinar for Parents and Caregivers 

Parenting is challenging. We are constantly juggling demands and especially now, need to practice self-care more than ever. This workshop will acknowledge and celebrate parents/caregivers and introduce practical strategies to build resilience based on brain science.   

Webinar Highlights:

• Importance of self-care
• Identifying when you need self-care
• Tips and activities for adults to improve self-care
  • Movement and breath practices
  • Letting go of the “shoulds”
  • Benefits of using humor

Presented by Laura Thieman and Stephanie Herman, FCPS School Social Worker Supervisors

Friday July 10, 2020, 10-11:30 a.m.

Register for The Juggle: Building Your Resilience through Self-Care: A Webinar for Parents and Caregivers 
 

1-2-3 Magic: The 3-Step Discipline for Calm, Effective, and Happy Parenting 
A Webinar for Families

1-2-3 Magic allows you to get back in charge of your home, enjoy your family again, and help your kids develop their emotional intelligence.  

In this presentation, you will learn how to set limits for and connect with your children by breaking down the task of parenting into three straightforward steps:

• Get your kids to STOP difficult behavior (whining, arguing, tantrums, etc.).
• Get your kids to START doing what you want them to do (picking up, going to bed, doing homework, etc.).
• Powerful strategies to reinforce the bond between you and your children.

Presented by Lauren Hawkins and Robin Yuckenberg, FCPS Behavior Intervention Teachers

Full: Wailist only 1-2-3 Magic: The 3-Step Discipline for Calm, Effective, and Happy Parenting 
A Webinar for Families

Setting the Stage for Distance Learning Success: A Webinar for Families

Transitioning to distance learning can be overwhelming.  Join us to learn important strategies to help support your child’s learning in elementary, middle, or high school. 

Webinar Highlights:

• Setting realistic expectations for this unique time period
• Setting new routines
• Designing organization systems for your home
• Building strategies to support everyone’s needs
• Preparing for and addressing challenges as they arise

Presented by Erika Deem and Valrie Eisele, FCPS Parent Resource Center Professionals.

Friday, May 1, 2020, 10 a.m.-noon. 

Watch Setting the Stage for Distance Learning Success: A Webinar for Families

Maintaining Wellness and School Supports During COVID-19: A Webinar for Families

Maintaining our own mental health and wellness during this time can be challenging, let alone supporting our children and family members. The first step to taking care of our families, is to take care of ourselves.

Webinar Highlights:

• Strategies for maintaining wellness for self and family
• How to talk to my child about COVID-19
• Activities that will foster resilience during this time
• What does stress look like in children?
• Resources to support my child 

Presented by Bethany Koszelak, Mental Wellness Specialist for FCPS.

Friday, May 8, 2020, 10 a.m.-noon.

Watch Maintaining Wellness and School Supports During COVID-19: A Webinar for Families

Motivating Responsible Behavior When Kids Are at Home 24/7: A Webinar for Families

In some cases, being home all the time is leading to more connection and positive memories...but in many cases it's leading to negative behavior that seems to stick around no matter what you try.

Webinar Highlights:

• Sibling relationships
• Resistance to schoolwork
• Helping around the house – chores

Presented by Parenting Specialist, Rachel Bailey, M.A., CPDPE.

Friday, May 15, 2020, 10 a.m. to noon.

Watch Motivating Responsible Behavior When Kids Are at Home 24/7: A Webinar for Families

10 Non-negotiable Rules for Raising a Teenager: A Webinar for Families

No one has ever said that raising teenagers is for the faint of heart. And while all parents genuinely want what's best for their children, teenagers seem to talk in a completely different language that's coded with many meanings.

Webinar highlights:

• Understanding the teen brain and digital binging
• Ideas for what to do with your teen during quarantine
• 10 non-negotiable rules for raising a teenager
• Tactics to ensure that your relationship remains strong

Presented by Michele Tureaud and Lori Kraden, FCPS Behavior Management Teachers

Tuesday, May 22, 2020, 10 a.m. to noon.

Watch 10 Non-negotiable Rules for Raising a Teenager: A Webinar for Families

Supporting Executive Functions at Home: A Webinar for Families

Our FCPS Behavior Intervention Services team will provide resources to help families support the growth of student executive functioning skills during this time of distance learning and beyond.

Webinar Highlights:

• Connections between behavior and executive functions,
• 6 executive function skill areas and their respective sub-skills
  • Working Memory
  • Self-Control
  • Goal Directed Persistence
  • Metacognition Strategies
  • Goal Directed Attention and Focus
  • Cognitive Flexibility and Shifting
• Practical strategies to develop and strengthen their students' executive function skills when at home

Presented by Shannon Hoey and Janeen Waddell FCPS Behavior Intervention Teachers

Tuesday, May 26, 2020, 10 a.m. to noon.

Watch Supporting Executive Functions at Home: A Webinar for Families

Flash Forward: Postsecondary Education and Employment Options for Students with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) and their Families: Virtual Webinars

Flash Forward will provide students with IEPs and their parents an introduction to options after high school. 

1. May 27, 2020: Supported and Competitive Employment Options:
   • For students planning to work after graduation.
2. May 28, 2020: Postsecondary Education Options:
   • For students planning to continue their education at a 2- or 4- year college or specialized training program.

Presented by FCPS Career and Transition Services

How to Keep Distracted Kids in “Study Mode” (Even if They Have ADHD): A Webinar for Families

Whether your child struggles with executive functioning skills, has ADHD, or would simply rather be playing Fortnite than doing online schooling, this webinar is for you. I’ll share tips to help you dial back the drama, get your child to focus, and create realistic expectations that make the next few months manageable.

Webinar Highlights:

• The ‘Framework 5’ for setting a daily routine that can work for just about any kid
• How to create the ideal structure for a positive homeschool experience
• Ways to collaborate and not dictate in order to get greater buy-in from your child
• The cup system that can help you get your own work done without interruption 
• Simple yet powerful tools that teach kids to take ownership of their work
• Two ways to break up assignments to get more done
• Free software to teach your child so that you don’t have to be the ‘homeschool police’
• Top apps that allow kids to better manage their own media use, increase focus, and decrease procrastination

Presented by Ann Dolin, M.Ed., educational consultant and award-winning author.  Ann is the President and Director of Educational Connections, Inc.

Friday, April 24, 2020, 10 a.m.-noon. 

Watch How to Keep Distracted Kids in “Study Mode” (Even if They Have ADHD): A Webinar for Families

Cancelled: Mind in the Making Series

At this workshop you will learn the research behind the Seven Essential Life Skills Every Child Needs. Learn strategies for improving these skills, the importance of them in children’s lives, and activities to promote these evidence-based executive functioning skills.

*Registration includes attendance at all sessions 6:30-8:30 p.m.

• Session 1: Introduction 1/16/20
• Session 2: Focus and Self-Control 1/23/20
• Session 3: Perspective Taking 1/30/20
• Session 4: Communicating 2/6/20
• Session 5: Making Connections 2/13/20
• Session 6: Critical Thinking 2/20/20
• Session 7: Taking on Challenges 2/27/20
• Session 8: Self-Directed, Engaged Learning (3/5/20)

Cancelled: Special Education: Understanding the Process and Collaborating with Your School

• What is Special Education?
• How do children qualify for services?
• What is Least Restrictive Environment?
• What is the difference between accommodations and modifications?
• What is an IEP?
• What are the roles and responsibilities of IEP team members?
• How can I work with the school team to develop an IEP?
• How do I advocate for my child at school and in the IEP process?

Presented by Mary Beth Harrison-Cunningham, Manager of the FCPS Parent Resource Center and Susan Kannengiesser, FCPS Procedural Support Liaison.

Friday, March 6, 2020, 10 a.m.-noon. Will be recorded for our YouTube Chanel.

Cancelled: Drugs, Alcohol, and Vaping, What Every Parent Needs to Know

Talking with your teen or young adult can be challenging. Having meaningful, ongoing conversations about drugs and alcohol, however, is key to helping keep your son or daughter healthy and safe.

Presentation Highlights:

• Current trends in substance use and abuse

• Image of substances on physical and emotional development
• Paraphernalia display and discussion
• Tools for parents

Presented by Brian Maslowski, FCPS Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Education teacher.

Friday, March 20, 2020, 10 a.m.-noon.

Sibshops

An exciting workshop for brothers and sisters of children with special needs!

*Registration must be completed separately for each session.

• Session 1: 11/4/19
• Session 2: 1/28/20
• Session 3: 3/21/20 will be held at Gum Springs Community Center and Providence Community Center

Cancelled: Launching Your Adolescent into Adulthood

A recent survey of young adults in the US reported that nearly 45% of young adults between the ages of 18 and 34 now live with their parents - even though they are employed.

This session will provide:

• 10 Tips to help launch your young adult successfully into adulthood
• Strategies to teach your child “soft” employment, money management and communication/self-advocacy skills.

Presented by Dr. Amy Fortney Parks, LPC, ACS, Owner of The Wise Family Counseling & Assessment Services in Alexandria and Arlington.

Friday, March 27, 2020, 10 a.m.-noon. Will be recorded for our YouTube Chanel.

Cancelled: Fitness Activities: A Parent’s Guide to Getting your Child Moving

Learn fun activities for the whole family to get your child moving while reinforcing a wide range of skills needed to participate in physical education.

You will learn how to:

• Motivate your child to be physically active
• Use provided games to enhance movement while reinforcing the adaptive skills students need to be successful in PE:
  • Taking turns and following rules
  • Participating in group games and interacting with peers

Presented by Phyllis Orner, FCPS Adapted PE Specialist, Manda Tirado and Christy Stone, FCPS Adapted PE Teachers

Tuesday, March 31, 2020, 10 a.m.-noon

Preschool Transition to Kindergarten for Students with Disabilities: CANCELLED

The transition to kindergarten is a big one for kids and can be even more so for children with disabilities. Please join us to discuss how parents can collaborate with FCPS to ensure their students have a smooth transition to Kindergarten.

Presentation Highlights:

• How are special education services provided in Kindergarten?
• What does the continuum of services look like?
• Overview of the reevaluation process
• What happens at the transition IEP?
• Transportation for school age children

Presented by Kurt Soderstrom and Laurie Andrews, FCPS Special Education Preschool teachers.

Friday, February 7, 2020, 10 a.m.-noon. CANCELLED

Fostering Protective Factors in Children and Adolescents to Promote Social-Emotional Wellness

Every adult can foster protective factors and build resiliency in children and adolescents.

Presented by Ryan Dickerson, FCPS School Psychologist and Jenn Spears, FCPS Mental Wellness Specialist

Topics include:

• What does the Fairfax County Youth Survey data show us?
• Identifying Protective Factors and Assets (Three to Succeed)
• Strategies for building protective factors and assets
• Understanding resilience and how to increase your child’s ability to respond to challenges

Thursday, February 13, 2020, 10 a.m.-noon

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Children and Adolescents

Join Dr. Lisa M. Cullins, attending physician in the Emotion and Development Branch at the National Institute of Mental Health for this highly informative workshop.  She will provide current research on:

• Diagnostic Criteria
• Signs and Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder as manifested in children and adolescents
• Treatment Options, Resources and Collaborations

Tuesday, February 18, 2020, 10 a.m.-noon

Parenting Your Teen While Keeping Your Sanity

Learn important strategies to help form a positive relationship with your teen.

Topics include:

• Understanding the development of the teen brain
• Recognizing ways to create a positive climate in the home
• Identifying constructive discipline approaches
• Increasing more productive and effective communication strategies

Presented by Michele Tureaud, FCPS Behavior Intervention Teacher.

Friday, February 21, 2020, 10 a.m.-noon.

Career and Transition Services Super Transition Saturday

It is never too early or too late to start planning for a successful transition from school life to life as a young adult. Join us to learn about Career and Transition Services (CTS) programming and course options for students with disabilities.

Breakout sessions will cover:

• In-school as well as postsecondary support services.
• Employment and postsecondary education considerations.
• Student self-determination as an evidence-based predictor of post school success.

This event will also include a student/parent panel where members describe their personal experiences as they navigated Fairfax County Public Schools and the transition process. New this year will be the opportunity to sit with professionals well versed in transition planning to answer your questions during the “Ask an Expert” Q & A.

Saturday, February 22, 2020, 8:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. at Luther Jackson Middle School

Adversity and Trauma in Childhood: Building Resilient Communities

In the past couple of decades, there has been an explosion of new understanding about how and why adversity and trauma can reliably predict risks for mental, physical, behavioral health and productivity in the population.

This is great news! What’s predictable is preventable! We can understand how protection, prevention and resilience promotion can profoundly improve health, safety and productivity, as well as reduce public and private costs now and for generations to come.

The presentation includes in-depth information about:

• The neurobiological effects of adversity on development.
• The impacts of childhood adversity and trauma on population health.
• Resilience – what we can all do to improve health and well-being across the lifespan.

Presented by Karen Brown, FCPS  Psychologist, Sarah Ince, FCPS School Social Worker and Jenna White from the Fairfax County Council of PTA's.

Friday, February 28, 2020, 10 a.m.-noon.

Mind in the Making Series 

At this workshop you will learn the research behind the Seven Essential Life Skills Every Child Needs. Learn strategies for improving these skills, the importance of them in children’s lives, and activities to promote these evidence-based executive functioning skills.

*Registration includes attendance at all sessions 6:30-8:30 p.m.

• Session 1: Introduction 1/16/20
• Session 2: Focus and Self-Control 1/23/20
• Session 3: Perspective Taking 1/30/20
• Session 4: Communicating 2/6/20
• Session 5: Making Connections 2/13/20
• Session 6: Critical Thinking 2/20/20
• Session 7: Taking on Challenges 2/27/20
• Session 8: Self-Directed, Engaged Learning (3/5/20)

The IEP Transition Plan: Post-Secondary Planning in Middle and High School

Join FCPS Career and Transition Services to learn the importance of the IEP Transition Plan for effective postsecondary planning in middle and high school. Have in-depth conversations with CTS staff, and get answers to these questions:

• What should parents look for?
• What questions should you ask the school team?
• What questions should you ask your son or daughter?
• What role does the IEP play in increasing self-advocacy?
• How do IEP goals support postsecondary planning?

Thursday, January 9, 2020, 10 a.m.-noon.

Parenting Children with Challenging Behaviors - CANCELLED

Parenting can be difficult, but it is even more stressful when children refuse to follow directions, throw tantrums, and are continuously disruptive. Sometimes parents find themselves at a loss for successful strategies.

Join us in this important session that will focus on:

• Reasons for challenging behaviors
• Recognizing and preventing power struggles
• Recognizing and encouraging appropriate behaviors
• Communicating effectively with your child

Presented by Laurie Andrews and Kurt Soderstrom, FCPS Special Education Teachers.

Friday, January 10, 2020, 10 a.m.-noon.

Mind in the Making Series

At this workshop you will learn the research behind the Seven Essential Life Skills Every Child Needs. Learn strategies for improving these skills, the importance of them in children’s lives, and activities to promote these evidence-based executive functioning skills.

*Registration includes attendance at all sessions 6:30-8:30 p.m.

• Session 1: Introduction 1/16/20
• Session 2: Focus and Self-Control 1/23/20
• Session 3: Perspective Taking 1/30/20
• Session 4: Communicating 2/6/20
• Session 5: Making Connections 2/13/20
• Session 6: Critical Thinking 2/20/20
• Session 7: Taking on Challenges 2/27/20
• Session 8: Self-Directed, Engaged Learning 3/5/20

Bipolar Disorder in Children and Adolescents: Assessment, Treatment and Research Update

Join Dr. Lisa M. Cullins, attending physician in the Emotion and Development Branch at the National Institute of Mental Health for this highly informative workshop.  She will provide current research on:

• Diagnostic Criteria
• Signs and Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder as manifested in children and adolescents
• Treatment Options, Resources and Collaborations

Tuesday, January 21, 2020, 10 a.m.-noon

Calm Conversations with Your Adolescent

As parents of adolescents, we can often find ourselves in the throes of emotion and reactivity; we can say or do things that escalate the situation.

Join Corinne Coppola, M.A., and Well-Being Professional in this important workshop to learn tools to take yourself off of the emotional roller coaster and engage in ways that are helpful and supportive.

• Explore ways to set boundaries that fosters loving and safe communication.
• Learn strategies to feel connected and calm rather than frazzled and overwhelmed.

Friday, January 24, 2020, 10 a.m.-noon.

Sibshops

An exciting workshop for brothers and sisters of children with special needs!

*Registration must be completed separately for each session.

• Session 1: 11/4/19
• Session 2: 1/28/20 will be held at Gum Springs Community Center and Providence Community Center
• Session 3: 3/21/20

Portrait of an ADHD Graduate: Overcoming Obstacles While Optimizing Strengths

This session focuses on ways parents can prepare students diagnosed with ADHD to be successful in the 21st Century workforce.

Topics will include:

• Identifying and building on existing strengths
• Strategies for developing executive functioning skills
• Ways to cultivate emotional intelligence

Presented by: Patricia M. Hudak, PCC, BCC, Certified ADHD/Executive Function Coach at PathFinder Coaching & Tutoring LLC, President-Elect, CHADD Board of Directors.

Friday, January 31, 2020, 10 a.m.-noon.

Zones of Regulation

Rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy, the Zones of Regulation is a framework that uses four colors to help students identify their feelings and level of alertness and provides strategies to support emotional regulation. By understanding how to notice their body’s signals, detect triggers, read social context, and consider how their behaviors impact those around them, students learn improved emotional control, sensory regulation, self-awareness, and problem-solving skills.

Participants will:

• Learn about the four Zones, corresponding feelings and visuals to reinforce this language at home.
• Explore calming and alerting strategies to teach children how to become aware of and manage their emotions.
• Discuss individual needs in a collaborate group setting.

Presented by Emily Habermeyer and Paula Augenstein, FCPS School Counselors.

Thursday, December 5, 2019, 10 a.m.-noon.

Watch Zones of Regulation on our YouTube Channel

Raising Children with High Self-Esteem in a High Pressure Culture

We all want our children to feel good about themselves and meet their full potential. But how can we raise children with healthy self-esteem when they compare themselves to others and believe they aren't doing or being enough… no matter how successful they are?

Participants will learn:

• Where self-esteem comes from
• Practical strategies to help children improve their self-esteem
• Why some strategies we usually use to improve self-esteem may backfire
• 3 simple actions used to improve your child’s self-esteem today and, in the future

Presented by Parenting Specialist, Rachel Bailey, M.A., CPDPE.

Friday, December 6, 2019, 10 a.m.-noon.

Watch Raising Children with High Self-Esteem in a High Pressure Culture on our YouTube Channel

Twice Exceptional Students: What Parents Need to Know

Twice-exceptional (2e) learners have exceptional strengths and exceptional learning challenges. Please join us to learn what FCPS is doing to provide schools and families with insight and guidance to support the identification, instruction, and social-emotional wellness of 2e students.

During this workshop, you will have an opportunity to:

• Learn about the joys and challenges of twice-exceptionality.
• Review newly published FCPS resources created to support families and schools.
• Talk to other parents of 2e learners.

Presented by Ms. Beth Baldwin, FCPS Advanced Academic Specialist and Ms. Dawn Azennar FCPS Curriculum Resource Teacher.

Friday, December 13, 2019, 10 a.m.-noon.

Watch Twice Exceptional Students: What Parents Need to Know on our YouTube Channel

Irritability in Children and Youth: How to Help Children Cope

Dr. Ramaris German, Ph.D., Psychologist and Ms. Wanda Wheeler, Mental Health Clinician from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), will present this important workshop for parents of irritable children and youth.

They will highlight:

• Understanding appropriate vs. inappropriate levels of irritability
• The psychological processes that underlie irritability
• The impact on home and school for children with irritability
• Strategies for children and youth to use to cope
• Current NIMH studies on irritability in children

Friday, November 1, 2019, 10 a.m.-noon.

Sibshops

An exciting workshop for brothers and sisters of children with special needs!

*Registration must be completed separately for each session.

• Session 1: 11/4/19 will be held at Gum Springs Community Center and Providence Community Center
• Session 2: 1/28/20
• Session 3: 3/21/20

Raising a Screen Smart Kid: Embrace the Good and Avoid the Bad in the Digital Age

For parents who didn't grow up with smartphones but can't let go of them now, expert advice on raising kids in our constantly connected world. This presentation will focus how to help kids navigate friendships, bullying, dating, self-esteem, and more online.

• Using social media to enhance connection with friends and family, instead of following strangers and celebrities
• Finding online support and community for conditions such as depression and eating disorders
• Learning and developing life skills through technology--for example, by problem-solving in online games--while avoiding inappropriate content

Presented by Juliana Miner, public health expert and the creator of the popular blog Rants from Mommyland.

Thursday, November 7, 2019 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Watch Raising a Screen Smart Kid: Embrace the Good and Avoid the Bad in the Digital Age on our YouTube Channel

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder: Beginning Your Journey

Attend this important workshop, presented by Julia Calhoun and Katie Boxer, FCPS Behavior Intervention Teachers to understand characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorder.

• Does your child have a new diagnosis?
• Do you suspect your child may have Autism?

Highlights will include:

• Understanding the unique learning styles of students with Autism.
• Effective strategies to use in the home and classroom.
• Examine examples of resources.

Friday, November 8, 2019, 10 a.m.-noon.

Special Education: Understanding the Process and Collaborating with Your School

Topics Include:

• What is Special Education?
• How do children qualify for services?
• What is Least Restrictive Environment?
• What is the difference between accommodations and modifications?
• What is an IEP?
• What are the roles and responsibilities of IEP team members?
• How can I work with the school team to develop an IEP?
• How do I advocate for my child at school and in the IEP process?

Wednesday, November 13, 2019, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Parenting Through Challenging Times: Supporting Your Child Through Life’s Ups and Downs

Transform feelings of being overwhelmed, anxious and stressed to calm, confident and compassionate. Learn tools and techniques to navigate turbulent waters and times of change within your home and family life.

Major Life Changes can make you feel out of control:

• A Job Change/Loss
• A Move
• Divorce/Separation
• Addition of a family member or sibling to the home
• Death
• Mental/physical illness
• Child leaving the home

Presented by Corinne Coppola, M.A., and Well-Being Professional.

Friday, November 22, 2019, 10 a.m.-noon.

Watch Parenting Through Challenging Times: Supporting Your Child Through Life’s Ups and Downs on our YouTube Channel

Post-Secondary Education Options: Parent Coffee & Conversation

Join FCPS Career and Transition Services to learn about post-secondary concerns for students contemplating college.

Highlights will include:

• Disclosure
• Accessing Accommodations
• Disability Support Services
• Differences Between High School and College

Wednesday, October 2, 2019, 10 a.m.-noon.

From Chaos to Calm: 10 Ways to Stop Power Struggles

Please join Celebrate Calm Founder, Kirk Martin, for a laugh-out-loud funny presentation filled with practical, concrete strategies to restore calm in your home and stop the power struggles.

Perfect for parents of children ages 2 – 22!

• Get your kids to listen the first time.
• Stop defiance, disrespect, and yelling.
• Stop whining, tantrums, and sibling fights.
• Get kids off screens without a fight.
• Create stress-free mornings, homework time, and bedtime.

Thursday, October 3, 2019, 10 a.m.-noon and 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Watch From Chaos to Calm: 10 Ways to Stop Power Struggles on our YouTube Channel

Mastering the Process of School: Helping Students Build Study and Organization Skills

Executive Functioning (EF) skills, such as time-management, materials organization, planning, and prioritization, and initiating and completing work, are critical for student success in school and in life. Students with executive function challenges can have difficulty fully demonstrating their knowledge and strengths.

Join us for this workshop to learn:

• What is Executive Functioning?
• What strategies can I use to help my child develop stronger Executive Functioning skills?

This session will both define and provide explicit strategies to help bolster these essential skills for students accessing a challenging curriculum or high-incidence support.

Presented by Lindsey Thoms, M.Ed., Kathy Essig, M.Ed., and Deborah Rosen of The StudyPro.

Friday, October 11, 2019, 10 a.m.-noon.

Moving on to Life in the Community: A Resource Fair for Students with Disabilities

Don’t miss this FREE Resource Fair for students with disabilities and their parents!

Learn about vocational, residential, leisure, recreational, independent living and advocacy options. This resource fair is for all individuals requiring ongoing employment and community support services after graduation.

• 6:30-6:45 p.m. Registration - Participants and Adult Service Providers
• 6:45-7:15 p.m. Overview Presentation (Little Theater)
• 7:15-8:45 p.m. Adult Service Provider Fair/Exhibits (Cafeteria)

Tuesday, October 15, 2019, 6:30-8:45 p.m. at Lake Braddock SS

Knowing the Signs: Substance Abuse and Today’s Youth

It can be so hard to watch someone close to you destroy themselves with drugs and alcohol. Learn how to deal with being hurt by your loved ones and how you can support them in their darkest moments.

• Local substance abuse expert, Sam Lucania, with support from FCPS Office of Student Safety and Wellness, will share some of his life experiences and lessons learned.
• Learn how to improve your ability to handle the unexpected influences in your child’s life.
• He will have you learn that there is indeed hope in recovery and that we can turn our lives around when we take the right steps.
• Learn the signs and strategies to support and help your child.

Friday, October 18, 2019, 10 a.m.-noon.

Watch Knowing the Signs: Substance Abuse and Today's Youth on our YouTube Channel

Dyslexia Open House

Browse exhibit tables and learn about next steps for FCPS students with dyslexia.

Thursday, October 24, 2019, 10-11 a.m.

Helping your Child Cope with Stress

As parents, we want to shield our children from stress and adversity as much as possible. However, we cannot protect them from everything; everyone will face challenges in his or her life. What we can do is give them the skills necessary to face those stresses and challenges head-on, to learn from them, and to grow in strength and maturity as a result.

Join Dr. Lisa Bateman, Clinical Psychologist, in this important session that will focus on:

• Recognizing stress in children
• Building resiliency skills
• The role of mindfulness and executive functioning skills

Friday, October 25, 2019, 10 a.m.-noon.

Watch Helping your Child Cope with Stress on our YouTube Channel

Future Quest: College and Career Conference for Middle and High School Students

Future Quest is a FREE college and career conference held every two years for middle and high school students with disabilities, young adults with disabilities, their families, and professionals who work with them. The conference is organized by George Mason University and the Northern Virginia Transition Coalition. One of the largest events of its kind in Virginia, Future Quest features more than 40 workshops and 40 exhibits related to a successful life after high school.

Saturday, October 26, 2019, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. at George Mason University Johnson Center