Haycock's Family Liaison Newsletter: September 6th, 2022

Haycock's Family Liaison Newsletter

Good Afternoon and happy Tuesday! We hope you had a wonderful holiday weekend. In this week's busy newsletter you will read about ways to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, kid's mental health resources, family friendly podcasts, a parent guide to Multi-tiered System of Support, upcoming county webinars that talk about student ADHD, and much, much more! Please enjoy this week's newsletter and have an amazing week! 


pic

September is Kinship Care Awareness Month

pic

The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors has proclaimed September as Kinship Care Awareness Month in recognition of the approximately three million children in the United States, 70,000 children in Virginia, and 4,000 children in Fairfax County, who are being raised in kinship care by grandparents, relatives, or close family friends because their parents are unable to do so. Learn more about Fairfax County Kinship Care programs, resources, and caregivers. 


Hispanic Heritage Month-September 15th-October 15th

3 Ways to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage as a Family

Honor Latino experiences and stories with books, podcasts, movies, and TV shows.

Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the diversity of Latin American cultures and the achievements of Latinos present and past. While we honor Hispanic heritage year-round, this month-long celebration gives us a platform to highlight our stories, traditions, and contributions.

Are you looking for ways to share your culture with your children, or deepen their connection to your family's heritage? Do you want to learn about and explore cultures different from your own? The tips and resources here can help you and your children celebrate Hispanic heritage as a family!

Honoring the Experiences of Latin Americans

Books are a fantastic way to explore the stories of Hispanic and Latino people around the world. Families can read about the importance of cultural traditions, the ups and downs of learning another language, and a multitude of immigration experiences. Kids' self-esteem and connection to community get a boost when they see themselves and their families represented in stories. Plus, reading together gives families a way to bond and start conversations.

You can use books to help you talk about the history of your family and ancestors. Stories can give you ways to teach kids about your family's traditions and pass them down to the next generation. And bilingual books or books in Spanish can support your child's language development and connection with their heritage.

Check out books with Latino characters and bilingual books for true stories of history-makers, fiction based on relatable experiences, and more.

Exploring Our Latin American Cultures and Traditions

The cultures and traditions of Latin America are as diverse as the people. From Mexico's Día de los Muertos to Colombia's Día de las Velitas and Puerto Rico's Parrandas, Latin American celebrations have distinct traditions, music, food, and art.

Families can celebrate Hispanic heritage by learning more about the communities, celebrations, and traditions of Latinos around the world. Try these podcasts, which feature stories and voices from Puerto Rico, Colombia, ancient Mayan culture, and beyond. Kids will see themselves and others in the relatable characters and hosts.

Hands-on activities can be another great way to connect with your own family's history and traditions. How about cooking some Venezuelan arepas, Argentinian asado, or a recipe from your childhood? Or consider creating your own board games, like this DIY Lotería, the Mexican version of Bingo, or a Pirinola.

Seeing Ourselves on the Screen

Did you know that Latinos make up 19% of the U.S. population, yet only 8% of characters in children's TV shows are Latinos?

If you grew up Latino, you might have noticed that you rarely saw people who looked like you on the screen. Even today, finding entertainment that represents Latino people without stereotypes is challenging. When kids see well-rounded, positive characters who look like them, they feel better about themselves and others in their communities.

Have a family movie night and watch a great movie that highlights Latinos. Get inspired by a story, character, or actor from your family's own culture with movies featuring MexicanCubanPuerto Rican, and South American leads. Or have a TV show marathon with one of these TV series with Latino characters and creators.

Remember to take some time after the movie or show to ask questions and let everyone share opinions!

There's still more work to do, but we've seen progress in how Latinos and Latino culture are valued on and off the screen. Let's celebrate our rich heritage and take pride in our contributions beyond Hispanic Heritage Month.

As José Antonio Tijerino, president and CEO of the Hispanic Heritage Foundation, said: "You are not lucky to be here. The world needs your perspective. They are lucky to have you."


Kids' Mental Health Apps and Websites for Anxiety, Depression, Coping Skills, and Professional Support

Apps, sites, and text hotlines help kids cope with issues from stress to suicide.

Growing up has always been a challenge, but it seems today's kids are having an especially rough time. Anxiety, depression, and the youth suicide rate have been on the rise for the last decade, especially for girls and children of color. It's safe to say that the need for easily accessible mental health tools that kids can use privately and safely is more critical than ever.

Everyone's mental health journey is different. Talking with your child and getting professional help is the first and best course of action if you think they need it. But digital tools can be an added boost to get your kid through a tough time. They're particularly helpful for kids who find it hard to reach out and ask for help.

Depending on your family's needs, you can find apps and sites designed for immediate help, ongoing support, information, and positive mental health habits. If your kid is going to use any of these tools, it's a good idea to review them yourself to see how they work and to check their privacy policies to learn how they handle sensitive information.

 

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ON THIS TOPIC!


Great Podcasts for Little Kids

If you're looking for easy, screen-free ways to keep your little ones entertained, podcasts are a nice tool to have in your belt. Podcasts can help make bedtime easier with comforting sounds and soothing stories, make playtime interactive with fun adventures and music to dance to, and make quiet time easier for you. From intriguing stories to calming meditations, you'll find a variety of educational, captivating, and engaging shows to add to your kids' routine. While you're here, find more storytimeeducational, and soothing podcasts to share with your little ones.

Find More Information Here!

Podcasts for the Family!


"I Can't Focus!" When ADHD Impacts Your Child's Math and Writing Performance: A Webinar for Families

Math and writing are often difficult subjects for students with ADHD because both require extensive working memory. But with the right study hacks and strategies, almost anyone can master writing and math! Unfortunately, most students don't learn these important skills at school.

This academic year is just getting started, and effective strategies can make a difference between success and frustration. In this webinar, educator, author, and Educational Connections Founder Ann Dolin, M.Ed., will teach parents:\

  • Research-based math study skills and strategies to use at home and in class
  • How to help your child get organized and get their thoughts down on paper
  • Tech tools to help students get started on assignments (and finish them!)
  • How virtual classes during the pandemic deepened math and writing learning gaps for many students with ADHD and what you can do to help your child get back on track this year

September 8, 2022, 6:30 - 8 p.m. and September 9, 2022, 10-11:30 a.m.

Register for "I Can't Focus!" When ADHD Impacts Your Child's Math and Writing Performance: A Webinar for Families


Signs and Symptoms of Eating Disorders: What Families and Schools Need to Know

Join Katie Maki as she shares her experiences highlighting the following topics:

  • Signs and symptoms of eating disorders and how they differ in age groups

  • Facts and myths about eating disorders 

  • How to avoid negative messaging on body image and food in education

  • What parents need from school staff to support families fighting eating disorders

September 16, 2022 10 -11:30 a.m.

Register for: Signs and Symptoms of Eating Disorders: What Families and Schools Need to Know


Back to School with ADHD: Out of the Box Approaches webinar presented by Formed Families Forward

Tonight! September 6
7-8 p.m. 

Virtual

Join Kelly Henderson, Ph.D, Executive Director and Beth Spivack, MSW, Family Support and Outreach Director for Formed Families Forward for a free virtual workshop. The session will address unique characteristics that impact identification, delivery of services and parenting of children and youth with ADHD. Register online


Back to What?! Coping Strategies to Successfully Manage the Transition Back to School webinar presented by Formed Families Forward

September 21
7-8 p.m.

This session will discuss the challenges for transitioning back to school for children and youth and their parents and caretakers. Participants will explore coping strategies to overcome the associated stress and support academic success. Register online.


Virtual Kinship Cafés hosted by the Department of Family Services’ Parenting Education Programs

First Wednesday and Third Thursday Monthly, Starting Sept. 15
6:30-8 p.m.


Kinship caregivers can talk with others who understand how difficult and joyful it can be raising a child for a family member or friend. Join us to discuss topics such as communication, self-care, and family dynamics.
Monday, October 5 we’ll discuss The Joys and Challenges of Kinship Care.  Register by email or call 703-324-7720.


Formed Families Forward Peer Support Groups

Formed Families Forward Peer Support Groups for foster and adoptive parents and kinship caregivers meet monthly. There is an in-person group in Fairfax on third Wednesday evenings from 7-8:30 p.m. and a virtual group on first Sunday evenings of the month 7:30-9 p.m. Register online.


Formed Families Forward Stronger Together Youth Support Groups: Back but Different in Fall Starting Tuesday, September 6

for teens and young adults (ages 14-22) meets WEEKLY in person from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in Fairfax City. Professional clinicians facilitate this peer support group which introduces skills youth can use to navigate everyday challenges and personal growth. A light dinner will be served each evening. FREE of charge but regular weekly attendance is expected. Register online


Foster the Family Support Groups

 for foster and adoptive parents – In-person support groups are available in Fairfax County, Eastern Prince William County, Western Prince William County, and Montgomery County. Each group meets one evening a month from 6:30-8 p.m. Visit Foster the Family D.C. to learn more about the group nearest to you, or to register online.


Parent's Guide to Responsive Instruction: A Multi-tiered System of Support

picpic

FCPA Rec Center Membership Sale Runs Through Oct.15th

pic

As you shift to your fall schedule and routines, there has never been a better time to use your local Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) Rec Center.

Take advantage of the membership sale that starts on Sept. 1 and runs through Oct. 15, 2022. Whether you’re a new or returning member, you can save up to 15% on the purchase of an annual membership. If the annual membership option doesn’t fit your needs, visit the Rec Center website; or stop by a Rec Center to discuss membership options.

Memberships are on sale at any of the county’s nine Rec Centers and online. FCPA Rec Center membership gives you access to all nine Rec Centers, the indoor tracks, drop-in and virtual group fitness classes, pools, spas, saunas, basketball courts, racquetball courts, strength equipment, cardio equipment, free weights, drop-in pickleball, ice skating and fitness center orientations. Amenities vary by location. A wealth of recreational opportunities awaits you at the Park Authority Rec Centers.

For more information about the sale, contact business support analyst Hannah Hutton at 703-324-1537 or at Hannah.Hutton@fairfaxcounty.gov.


40+ Companies with 10,000+ Jobs Hiring Veterans, Transitioning Service Members, Military Spouses and Cleared Talent at Northern Virginia Career Fair Sept. 21-22

pic

In support of veterans, transitioning service members and military spouses looking to advance their careers, the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority (FCEDA) is leading a free, two-day career fair Sept. 21-22, 2022. All backgrounds and experience levels are welcome, and attendees do not need to live in Northern Virginia to interview with participating companies. Cleared talent is also encouraged to attend this event. To register, job seekers can click here.

  • In-person hiring – Wednesday, Sept. 21, 10:00 am-12:00 pm and 1:00-3:00 pm EST, at the National Museum of the United States Army, 1775 Liberty Drive Fort Belvoir, VA 22060. For parking and transit information, visit com/virtual-career-fairs/.
  • Virtual hiring – Thursday, Sept. 22, 1:00-4:00 pm EST, via online meeting portal Premier Virtual. To register, visit com/virtual-career-fairs/.

During the two-day career fair, candidates will have the opportunity to network and interview with more than 40 leading companies in Northern Virginia, from Fortune 500s to government agencies and small businesses. Regional employers – including Adobe, Amazon, CACI and the FBI – are actively hiring for more than 10,000 positions across a variety of sectors including government, IT, finance, renewable energy, and healthcare. Veteran career organizations will also attend the in-person event to provide valuable resume translation guidance and military spouse career education services free of charge.

“We are grateful to our veterans and their families, and proudly support them with connections to career opportunities at mission-driven companies here in Fairfax County and Northern Virginia,” said Victor Hoskins, president and CEO of FCEDA. “For the past two years, we have hosted several successful career fairs to serve our military community, and because of that, numerous active and retired military have found the opportunity to thrive professionally and personally in the nation’s career capital, Northern Virginia.”

The September 2022 career fair is hosted in collaboration with Fairfax County Government; Fort Belvoir Transition Assistance Program; Fort Belvoir Army Community Service; Northern Virginia Regional Commission; Virginia Department of Veteran Services; Virginia Employment Commission Veterans Services; and HIRE VETS NOW. Home to nearly 80,000 veterans and their families, as well as a vibrant community of 1,968 veteran-owned firms, Northern Virginia’s Fairfax County is a choice location for both active duty and retired military to successfully transition into the civilian workforce.

As the thriving business ecosystem in Northern Virginia continues to grow, more than 17,000 technology establishments currently employ more than 274,000 people here, and the region is expected to add more than 130,000 tech jobs in the next few years. To support this growth, FCEDA and its partners have been organizing career fairs since 2020 to attract, retain and nurture talent by connecting job seekers to companies with open jobs in Northern Virginia. To date, FCEDA has hosted seven career fairs attracting nearly 5,000 attendees and resulting in more than 12,500 conversations between attending candidates and companies.


Important Links

Parent Resource Center

Haycock Elementary School-Resources

Haycock PTA

Fairfax County Resources 

Thank you so much for reading, and as always feel free to contact me at eshoemaker@fcps.edu with any questions, comments, or concerns.