Prince William County Public Schools

Presented in Spanish by PEATC

Family Game Night for Students with Visual Impairments

Please join us to play adapted games for the whole family that are inclusive of individuals with blindness and low vision. Participants will not only have fun playing games, but families will learn about ways to adapt materials for vision differences.

Successful Transition Planning and the IEP –by PEATC

This workshop will encourage active participation in developing a meaningful and useful transition plan to help students in preparing for life as an adult when they finish school. A transition plan is a required part of the IEP for Virginia students aged 14 and older.

NAMI Ending the Silence

Ending the Silence for Families is a free, evidence-based, one-hour session designed for parents and primary caregivers of youth. Provides information about warning signs of mental health conditions through a brief presentation, short videos, and personal testimony from a young adult who describes their journey to recovery. Learn how to talk with your child about mental health concerns and how to work with school staff

9/21/2023

The Basics of Estate Planning & Special Needs – ARC

Understanding and utilizing the correct estate planning tools are essential to making sure our loved ones are protected.

Parent and Child Adaptive Yoga Class for Students with Visual Impairments

Learn wellness techniques and yoga poses through adapted instructional techniques.

9/28/2023

Meet the Author: Kathy Hoopman

Kathy Hoopmann has written over twenty books for children and adults, including picture books, novels, and nonfiction, with translations into as many languages.

She is best known for her writing on neurodiversity, and her photo illustrated books are bestsellers worldwide.

Children's Challenging Behaviors by NAMI

A Class for parents, family members and caregivers who have children and youth with mental health needs. Provides information to help parents understand typical behaviors versus challenging behaviors that require intervention. Learn when and how to seek help, develop parenting strategies, learn the ins and outs of special education and other educational supports, and discover community resources available to families and youth. Taught by parents who have been on similar journeys and can provide firsthand experience and knowledge.

Self-Determination for Post Secondary Success (Elementary Focused)

Sessions will address preparing your child for post-secondary success through development of skills associated with self-determination. Sessions will also address the importance of student involvement in their own Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings and how families can encourage and support their child through this IEP process.

What is a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) and How Can it Help My Child?

Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) is an adaptive and responsive framework that helps schools identify and provide targeted support for students who are struggling academically and/or behaviorally. MTSS is built upon strong and intentional collaboration, enhanced by the belief that ALL students can learn at high levels. Participants will understand key components of the MTSS framework, how decisions are made, how to foster a strong collaboration with schools, and how to access student support when needed.

(Title 1 Family Camp)

Understanding Dyslexia

Understanding Dyslexia is a one-hour evidence-based literacy conversation for parents and caregivers of students who may struggle with reading, writing, and spelling. Better understand the importance of early identification, systematic spelling and reading, and ways to support your child at home while nurturing their strengths.

Preschool Toilet Training & What is the Parent Resource Center?

Parents and families will learn about the signs of readiness for toilet training to look for in their child. We will also review different methods of toilet training to ensure that you are prepared to help your child be successful. We will discuss accommodations that parents/families can add into their day to support toilet training if their child has language delays, physical challenges, sensory needs, or other disabilities. Lastly, participants will be introduced to the Parent Resource Center to learn about the support offered to families in Prince William County.

What is a Functional Behavior Assessment?

A Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) is a structured process for collecting information/data to help understand why problem behaviors occur. The data will also help identify positive behavior interventions and supports to address the behaviors. An FBA can then be used to develop a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP). After attending, families will understand the FBA/BIP process

Helping Kids Manage Their Behavior – By The Arc of Greater Prince William and Dr. Crist

Problems with expressing anger constructively continues to be a challenging problem for kids and teens. Everyone in a family can be affected when anger becomes unmanageable. In this talk, Dr. James Crist will address reasons why kids get angry and why they have trouble managing their emotions, how biology figures in, how psychiatric problems can complicate learning to control anger, and how to help your kids manage their anger more effectively without losing your cool as well.

Disability Benefits: Social Security and VA Medicaid Waivers –PEATC

Families of children with disabilities need to understand government benefits available to them as part of planning a future for their loved one. These benefits can help supplement a person’s income, qualify a person for extra help, and help them receive healthcare and community support. Navigating the world of disability benefits can be tricky, time-consuming, and overwhelming. This workshop will help make that process easier. Join us as we discuss in understandable language: what are Social Security benefits, what are Virginia’s Medicaid Waivers, who is eligible, and how do I apply?

Preschool Fine Motor Workshop

Families are invited for an afternoon of fine motor fun. Through play, caregivers, along with their student, will explore a variety of inexpensive and do it yourself activities that can be used at home to help develop hand skills.

A Family Guide to Child Find

Welcome to the Child Find in Virginia! This session is designed to help parents identify and support children who may have special educational needs. We will explore how to recognize signs of learning or physical disabilities in kids and understand the importance of early intervention. We will learn how to navigate the Child Find process in Virginia, ensuring that every child receives the necessary support and resources to reach their full potential. Join us on this journey to make a positive impact in the lives of the children of Prince William County!

A Family Guide to Eligibility

Get ready to dive into the Eligibility Process in Virginia! This session will help you understand how students are evaluated to determine if they qualify for special education services. We will learn about the different assessments and tests used to gather information about a student's strengths and weaknesses. We will explore how eligibility decisions are made and the importance of gathering input from parents, teachers, and other professionals. By the end of the session, you will have a clear understanding of how the eligibility process works and how it ensures that all students get the support they need to succeed in school. Let us get started!

Self-Determination for Post Secondary Success (Secondary Focused)

Sessions will address preparing your child for post-secondary success through development of skills associated with Self-Determination. Sessions will also address the importance of student involvement in their own IEP (Individualized Education Program) meetings and how families can encourage and support their child through this IEP process

Tools in the Capacity Toolkit: Power of Attorney and Guardianship by The Arc of Greater Prince William

No matter our individual circumstances, there may be times when all of us need help making daily personal or medical decisions. Whether capacity (the ability to understand the nature and consequence of a decision) is present determines which tool to utilize. The two most common tools are powers of attorney and guardianship/conservatorship. Understanding the intricacies, similarities, and differences between them has lasting consequences.

Parents as Partners in the IEP Process

Come join us and explore key components in the development of an Individualized Education Program (IEP) and learn how parents and students serve as an important voice in all steps of the process. The IEP serves as a blueprint for educational programming that addresses a student’s individualized needs and requires your family’s input as part of the process. Wherever you are in the special education process, come partner with us to discuss the requirements and components of the IEP so that we can grow together as a team.

Turning 18 in Virginia by PEATC

Turning 18 is a big deal. An 18-year-old is legally considered an adult in Virginia and can make legal, financial, medical, and educational decisions in their life. For some individuals with disabilities, this will not be an issue. Others may need support. This workshop will share basic information about things that need to be considered as your loved one turns 18.

Learning Over Break for Preschoolers

Learn how to engage your preschooler/student in sensory activities, communication and social activities and access activities in the community to promote learning over winter break.

The Parent's Guide to Section 504 in Public Schools

This session of The Parent's Guide to Section 504 in Public Schools provides a conceptual understanding of Section 504 to include the definition of what constitutes a disability under Section 504. Section 504 is a federal civil rights law designed to protect the rights of individuals with disabilities.

A Family Guide to ESY Services

Please join us to learn more about Extended School Year (ESY) services for students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). We will take a closer look at the purpose of ESY and talk about the six different factors that IEP teams must consider when deciding if ESY is necessary for each student. We will also discuss what ESY services look like compared to a student's typical educational program, break down the difference between class-based and mutual-location ESY, and define terms related to these types of services.

A Family Guide to Supporting Social Emotional Learning for Preschoolers

This session is designed for families with preschool aged students. Families will learn how to promote and grow social emotional skills in children through activities at home and in the community.

New Year, New Lens by Formed Families Forward

Congratulations! We have made it halfway through the school year! While there is much to celebrate, this can also be a time when our kids get tired, and they may exhibit challenging behaviors. This workshop offers a fresh new look at behaviors. What do they mean? How do we navigate them? How might a "brain-first" approach build better, more resilient supports? Join us to gain a new perspective and kick off a strong second semester!

Critical Decision Points By the VDOE

Collaboration among parents, caregivers, and educators is vital, and this workshop will help you understand critical components as your child progresses through school. Four Key Essential Components:

Understanding some of the keys to your child’s academic success; Know the decisions you will need to make regarding your child’s educational path; Know when critical decision points must occur; Know what information you need to make well-informed decision points for your child.

Hands on Environmental Science

Families are invited to an environmental science program created for students with disabilities. This program will provide students the opportunity to see, touch, and smell items found in our beautiful Prince William County Parks.

Assistive Technology from A to Z

Students in Prince William County utilize a variety of Assistive Technology (AT) tools and resources to access their education. This session will be an overview of some of the tools that students use to support them with communication, reading, writing, physical access and more!

Parents as Partners in Special Education Conference

Prince William Parks and Recreation Inclusion Programming and ADA Support

Learn about classes that the Prince William County Parks and Recreation offers. Veronica Laughman, ADA Coordinator, will be sharing information on opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

Supporting Preschool Language Development

This in-person event will include activities for preschool age children to build and facilitate language. Activities will also include demonstrations and exploration of different low-tech and high-tech assistive augmentative communication devices

Navigating the Day: Visual Supports for Happy Preschoolers

Discover the power of visual supports in creating a positive home environment for preschoolers. In this class, we’ll explore how visual supports such as visual schedules, functional communication, choice boards, and more to reduce anxiety and behaviors, enhance language development, and promote smoother transitions. Join us as we empower our little ones with the tools they need to thrive! There will also be make and takes for at home visual supports!

Navigating Special Education Disputes In Virginia: A Parent's Guide

Join us for an informative online session where we’ll explore the various dispute resolution options available to parents of children with disabilities in Virginia. Our staff will discuss strategies for resolving disagreements between parents and schools, emphasizing local-level collaboration whenever possible. Learn about the role of the Parent Ombudsman for Special Education, the benefits of mediation, facilitated Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and the due process hearing process. Whether you have questions or need guidance, this session aims to empower parents with knowledge to advocate effectively for their child’s educational needs

More Than Sad: Suicide Prevention For Parents

The More Than Sad family of programs has taught over a million students, parents, and educators how to be smart about mental health. Parents will learn how to recognize signs of depression and other mental health problems, initiate a conversation about mental health with their child, and get him or her help. More Than Sad will be presented by the National Capital Area Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

Preparing Your Child For Kindergarten: A Smooth Transition Guide

The transition from early childhood special education (ECSE) to kindergarten can be both exciting and overwhelming for students with disabilities and their families. In this session, we will explore practical tips to ensure a successful transition.

Navigating The College Search For Students Who Learn Differently

Max McAuley, Associate Director of Admissions at Landmark College, will deliver a presentation that discusses the particular challenges faced by families of students with ADHD, ASD, Executive Function challenges, Dyslexia, and other learning differences as they look for colleges with supports. Students who receive support in high school will face a different learning and accommodative environment in higher education, and this program is intended to assist with their college search and transition planning. We will examine the varying levels of support offered by different schools, how families can evaluate a college’s commitment to their neurodiverse students, and how to shape a student's college search around their needs.

It's A Balancing Act: Reclaiming Yourself Through Self-Care And Wellness

Reclaiming yourself requires finding your unique path to wellness and committing to making yourself a priority. This is difficult for all parents/caregivers, especially parents of children with disabilities. Life can be unpredictable, and coping with stress and burnout can become overwhelming. It’s a challenging balancing act to remain centered and at peace, not in pieces. This interactive workshop is designed to help parents of children with disabilities view self-care through a new lens. This workshop offers tangible strategies to help you overcome the challenges that hinder you from balancing life and reclaiming yourself through self-care and wellness. Participating in this workshop, you will learn how to prioritize self-care and make it an integral part of your daily routine. With the right tools and techniques, you can achieve a sense of balance, peace, and well-being that can positively impact yourself and your family.

The Family Guide To Section 504 In Public SchoolsThe Parent's Guide to Section 504 in Public Schools session provides an understanding of Section 504, a federal civil rights law designed to protect the rights of individuals with disabilities, and what the definition of a disability under Section 504 is.

The Arc Of Greater Prince William's Recreation Program

Joy Ocetnik, the Director of Support Services, and Rashawn Webster, the Recreation Inclusion Coordinator, will conduct a workshop focusing on The Arc's Recreation Program. They will discuss the distinct types of events that the program offers, how to register and participate, and the upcoming summer programming. The workshop aims to help parents learn how to keep their children engaged in recreational and leisure activities, whether in school or after school, with or without the Medicaid Waiver. It's also an excellent opportunity for children to practice social and life skills while enjoying fun activities. The session will allow time for questions regarding the program.

ADHD And Behavior Management With James J. Crist, Ph.D.

Managing a child or teenager with ADHD can be an overwhelming task. Getting homework done, remembering to complete chores, maintaining control of their emotions when under stress, and breaking away from more enjoyable activities such as gaming or texting friends are all more challenging when ADHD is present. In this talk, Dr. Crist will provide a brief overview of ADHD, explain how symptoms of ADHD make dealing with daily tasks more difficult, and provide strategies for successfully managing these challenges. He will also provide an update on treatment methods, including newer medication options. Dr. Crist is the Clinical Director of the Child and Family Counseling Center in Woodbridge, VA, working with a variety of clients, including children, adolescents, adults, and families. He is the author of 8 self-help books for children and teens, including What’s The Big Deal About Addiction?, The Survival Guide for Making and Being Friends, Siblings—You’re Stuck With Each Other, So Stick Together (with co-author Elizabeth Verdick), What To Do When You’re Cranky & Blue, MAD—How to Deal With Your Anger and Get Respect, and What To Do When You’re Scared an Worried

A Family Guide To The Parent Resource Center

Join us on Thursday, May 30, 2024, for a session that will focus on the crucial role the Parent Resource Center plays in supporting staff, parents, and families of children with disabilities. Since its establishment in November 1992, the Parent Resource Center has been dedicated to fostering collaboration between families and educators by equipping families with knowledge, tools, and support to advocate for their children’s educational needs.

Summer Learning For Preschool Special Education Students

Learn practical strategies to support your preschooler with special needs during the summer break. Discover ways to reinforce IEP (Individual Education Program) goals, enhance skills, and prevent learning loss. Whether your child has academic, social-emotional, or functional goals, this online seminar equips you with tools for an enriching summer experience.