| Ventura County Foster Parent Association |
| 2010 Training Opportunities |
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"What we love to do and why!"
| Foster Parents Do you have a service or item to sell? Do you have a need for a service or items? Check out our classifieds page. |
| Licensing Orientations, Continuing Education Classes & CPR & First Aid Recertification Classes |
| Call your local program office. Ventura College 805-654-6327 Moorpark College 805-378-1400 ext. 1891, Oxnard College 805-986-5800 ext. 2018 or send an email to chowell@vcccd.edu rcarlson@vcccd.edu debbieflowers@vcc cd.edu Please note: The Ventura County Community College Programs provide these classes at NO COST to anyone wanting to attend. In all cases, first priority will go to Foster Parents and Kinship Providers. A book/workbook fee of $10-$20 may be charged for those who are not foster/kinship providers. All classes are subject to cancellation. Classes may be cancelled due to lack of pre-registration. To enroll fax or mail the pre-registration form to your local FKCE office. |
| "Encouraging the training and education of personnel for work in the field of foster care. Encouraging the recruitment and retention of foster homes, and making children's lives better" |
Continuing Education Classes |
Ventura County Community College District
Foster & Kinship Care Education
2010 Training Opportunities
Caring for Your At-Risk Infant (East County)
Trainers: Pattie Hunt & Wendy Homan
Tuesday, September 7th 6:00–9:00pm @ 250 Newbury Lane, Newbury Park
This program originates from the Pediatric Interim Care Center in Washington that models ways to provide a safe and healthy start for newborns going through withdrawal from heroine, methadone,
cocaine, methamphetamines and other illicit and prescription drugs. Signs of withdrawal in the infant, knowing when withdrawal begins and helpful techniques for caring for and calming this child will be
discussed. Sponsor: Moorpark College FKCE
Balancing Love & Discipline (West County)
Trainer: Stephanie Main, M.A.
Thursday, September 9th 6:30-9:00pm @ Ventura College 71 Day Rd, Ventura Room 4
Trying to walk the tightrope of loving children and disciplining them is something care providers do every day. What's too much and when’s too little? How can you be firm without being harsh? This
workshop introduces the concept of firm and kind unconditional love, and the value of more action and less talk. Sponsor: Ventura College FKCE
How to Have and Use a Successful IEP for your Child (East County)
Trainer: Laurie Jordan
Saturday, September 11th 9:30-11:30am
Cornerstone Church Room 11, 2080 Winifred St. Simi Valley
This class will identify some of the needs and challenges of children and families as the school year begins. Presenter will discuss IEP’s (Individualized Education Plans). An IEP is only as successful as
to how it specifically addresses the child’s needs to help him/her obtain the best education possible. What makes a child eligible for one? How do they work? Who will attend? How does this help my
child? Child care provided with pre-registration only. Sponsor: Moorpark College FKCE
Understanding Children with PTSD and Assessing Suicide Risks
Trainer: Jennifer Bailey MA
Thursday, September 16th 10:00am-noon
Interface Large Conference Room 1305 Del Norte Road, Camarillo
In this workshop we will explore signs and symptoms of PTSD in children and present ways to respond to PTSD issues in children and direct you to where you can get help for your child. We will also
discuss factors that would make a child consider suicide, identify signs of suicidality, ways to respond and where to get help.
Pre-register by contacting Bernadette Cardenas: 805-485-6114 or bcardenas@icfs.org or Carol Howell: 805-378-1400 ext. 1891 or chowell@vcccd.edu Sponsors: Interface & Ventura College FKCE
Kinship Navigation Support & Resources Program (East County)
Trainer: Audrey Slaugh, MFT intern from Kids & Families Together
Saturday, September 18th 9:00-11:30am
Crowley House 2522 Pleasant Way, Thousand Oaks
Do you know someone who is raising a grandchild or the child of a relative or friend? It is likely that they are struggling with feelings of guilt or isolation, confused about guardianship vs. adoption and need
support and resources to help them raise and nurture this child. Childcare provided. Sponsors: Kids & Families Together, Conejo Valley NfL; Moorpark College FKCE Carol Howell: 805-378-1400 ext.
1891 or chowell@vcccd.edu
Navigating Adoption (West County)
Trainers: Steve Mabry, MFT and Cindy Carver, M.A., Adoption Social Workers
Mondays: September 27th, October 4 & 11th 6:30-8:30pm @Aspiranet 1838 Eastman Ave. #100, Ventura
This series will cover important core issues for those who are considering adoption or for families that are currently walking the adoption journey. Join Adoption Social Workers, Steve Mabry and Cindy
Carver for a three week discussion on: Talking with Children about Adoption, Open Adoption, Expand your understanding of how race, ethnicity and culture impacts families who are formed through
adoption and Life Long Issues of Adoption. You will be provided practical ideas, a better understanding of the benefits and barriers of open adoption and new ways of addressing the adoption issues that
change as your child moves through his/her developmental stages. Sponsors: Aspiranet & Moorpark College FKCE
No Child Left Inside (West County)
Presenter: James Freeman on Tuesday September 28th 6:30-8:30pm @Aspiranet 1838 Eastman Ave. #100, Ventura
Engaging adoptive and foster children in outdoor experiences is a fun and low-cost way to make a positive investment in their personal growth and development. In this workshop, we will discuss the
benefits of exploring nature and identify practical ways to use the outdoors to help foster and adoptive children strengthen relationships and improve behaviors.
Sponsor: Moorpark College FKCE
Lifebooks Are Forever: Start Now (West County)
Trainer: Lynne Okun, MFT
2nd Saturday monthly, September 18th, October 9th, November 13th, December 11th 10am-noon
Kids & Families Together (Art Barn in back), 856 E. Thompson Blvd., Ventura
A lifebook is a place to keep birth information, letters, special memories, awards or certificates, photos from the past and ideas and hopes for the future. Each book will be as unique as the child it
celebrates. Books, creativity supplies and ideas will be provided for each pre-registrant, so bring a photo, drawing or other special item and begin to record those memories. Foster parents, CASA’s and
Mentors can make a difference for a lifetime with this special gift. Children age 5 and up are invited to participate in Kids' Arts Saturday morning program while caregivers participate in this unique workshop
up front at Kids & Families Together. Sponsor: Moorpark College FKCE
Baby Basics and Beyond (Two Locations and date/times)
Trainer: Pattie Hunt (West County)
2nd Tuesday morning monthly: Sept. 14th, Oct. 12th, Nov. 9th, Dec. 14th 9:30–11:30am
63 W. Calle El Prado, Oak View
Trainer: Mariana Abarta, R.N. (East County)
2nd Monday evening monthly: Oct. 11th, Nov. 8th, Dec. 13th 7:00–9:00pm
781 Devore Avenue, Simi Valley
Are you a new parent or caring for an infant as a foster or adoptive parent? It is likely that your little one came with a host of question marks (?????) Come, bring your infant and ask some of those
questions of experienced foster parent and mentors, Mariana Abarta and Pattie Hunt. Topics include: Calming the crying baby; Sleep issues; Feeding Issues; Red flags and other medical issues… Learn
about the expected and unique needs of each infant. Build confidence and increase your joy in nurturing your infant. Sponsor: Moorpark College FKCE
Kinship Parenting for relative care givers (West County)
Facilitator: Sylvia Orozco
2nd & 4th Tues monthly: Sept 14th & 28th, Oct 12th& 26th Nov 9th & 23rd, Dec 14th 6:00-8:00pm
Kids & Families Together 856 E. Thompson Blvd. Ventura
Kinship care is the full or part-time parenting of children by grandparents or other relatives. This monthly training group will explore the practical issues related to parenting a second generation and provide
tools and support to help you get and keep your bearing along the way. Sponsors: Ventura College FKC
CPR Recertification classes available in east and west county locations. Please call for dates and details:
Carrie McAuliffe 986-5800 ext. 1935
Carol Howell 378-1400 ext. 1891
For more information, call your local program office. Moorpark College 378-1400 ext. 1891, or Ventura College at 654-6327 or send an email to chowell@vcccd.edu or rcarlson@vcccd.edu
Please note: The Ventura County Community College Programs provide these classes to anyone wanting to attend. In all cases, first priority will go to Foster Parents and Kinship Providers. For “Parenting
Solutions” Series a book/workbook fee of $10-$20 may be charged for those who are not foster/kinship providers. All classes are subject to cancellation. Classes may be cancelled due to lack of pre-
registration or attendance. To enroll, fax or mail the pre-registration form to your local FKCE office.
Rainbow Connection Family
Resource Center
On-Going Activities, Trainings & Support Groups
We encourage you to attend a support groups at least once. You will be surprised at how much it will help you and how much you can help others. As there might not always be a support group
available for a specific diagnosis, we try to provide a parent match upon request. To register to attend or for a copy of the current “What’s Happening at Rainbow?” schedule of activities, please call
805 485-9643 or 800 332-3679
Activities
Social Time for Adults Receiving Services from TCRC (Bilingual)
Santa Paula Meets 1st Saturday of the month.Come, bring a friend or just come meet new people, for conversation, playing games or for refreshments and some fresh air.
Teddy Bear Brigade *No meetings during the summer.
Thousand Oaks 1-3pm Meets 3rd Saturday of the month, except for summer months.
For children 3 -13 years old with special needs and their siblings. It includes stories, sensory themes, crafts and music planned each month. Visit www.bearsandcompany.com to register or call
Rainbow. Parents meet separately for social and networking time.
Autism
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Parent Support Group (English)
Oxnard 7 – 9pm * No meetings during the summer.
Meets 2nd Wednesday of the month. Families meet to share the experiences they’ve had with their children with special needs and learn about resources.
You can connect with the group at asdparentsupportgroup@gmail.com
Autismo Support Group (Spanish)
Oxnard 7 - 8:30pm Meets 3rd Thursday of the month. Families meet to share the experiences and resources.
Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral Palsy Support Group - Simi (meets separately in English & Spanish)
9:30 – 11:00am Meets 3rd Monday of the month. Join other parents to talk about issues related to raising children with cerebral palsy and share resources and information.
G-tube/J-tube/NG-tube Networking (meets separately in English & Spanish)
6:30 – 8:00 Oxnard Meets 3rd Thursday of the month.
Does your child have a G-tube, J-tube, or NG-tube? Or has it been suggested? Families share stories of frustrations, fears, and successes (large & small).
Down Syndrome
Down Syndrome Support Group (meets separately in English & Spanish)
Oxnard 7pm – 8:30pm Meets last Thursday of the month. Families have open discussions on issues related to raising children with Down syndrome.
ON-GOING SUPPORT GROUPS continued on next page…
Epilepsy
Epilepsy Support Group (Bilingual)
Oxnard 6:30pm – 8:30pm Meets 1st Wednesday of the month. Families meet to share the experiences and resources.
Generic Support Groups
Early Start Support Group (Spanish)
Oxnard 10:30am – 12pm Meets 3rd Monday of the month. Families with children in the Early Start Program meet to share the experiences and resources.
Parents Connection – Fillmore (Spanish)
Meets 4th Monday of the month 10am – 11am.
Families of children with special needs meet at Burger King to connect and share information.
Santa Paula Support Group (Spanish)
Meets 1st Monday of the month 5:30pm – 7:00pm.
Families meet to share the experiences and resources.
Special Families Support Group (Spanish)
Oxnard 6:30pm – 8pm Meets 1st Friday of the month.
Families meet to share the experiences and resources.
Special Parents Network (English)
Oxnard 10am – 11:30am 3rd Wednesday of the month.
Simi 9:30 – 11am 3rd Thursday of the month. Come and join us for a cup of coffee, learn about our resources and talk about issues related to raising children with special needs.
Santa Clara Support Group - Fillmore, Piru (Spanish)
Meets 3rd Monday of the month 5:30 – 7:00pm.
Families meet to share the experiences they’ve had with their children with special needs and learn about resources.
Santa Paula Support Group (English)
Meets 4th Monday of the month 5:30pm – 7:00pm. Families meet to share the experiences they’ve had with their children with special needs and learn about resources.
Special Parents Ventura County Networking Group - Online
An online forum where parents of children with special needs can offer and receive support, referrals and information. This networking group provides families with a comfortable and convenient
environment for exchanging ideas and resources on everything from medical visits to IEP’s. Simply activate a free YAHOO user ID and Password account to log into this forum at http://groups.yahoo.
com/group/SpecialParentsVenturaCounty.
NICU
“MY BABY IS IN THE NICU NOW WHAT? (English & Spanish)
Oxnard 10am – 11am Meets 1st Monday of the month.
For families & parents of current & NICU grad’s. Info and resources: Breast feeding info & tips; Car Seat info; Discharge planning; Strategies for NICU survival and more…
NICU Support Group (meets separately in English & Spanish)
6:30 - 8:00pm Oxnard Meet other families & share ideas of coping, photos, info, joy & triumphs. Families with babies in the NICU & NICU grads welcome. Meets 3rd Wednesday of the month.
ON-GOING SUPPORT GROUPS continued on next page…
Sib Group
Sib club
Oxnard 6:30pm – 8pm * For Siblings Only *
Meets 1st Friday of the month. Games, Fun, Activities, for 5 – 14 years old siblings of children with developmental disabilities.
A Break for Mom
Rainbow Moms Day Out - Oxnard (Spanish)
Typically meets 3rd week of the month. Come and enjoy time with other mothers of children with special needs and have a relaxing time. For information or to RSVP please call Rainbow.
Rainbow Moms Connecting – Ventura County (English)
Meeting dates and times vary. Come and enjoy a night out with other mothers of children with special needs.
Trainings
The IEP Basics – English
Meets every first Monday of the month 12noon – 1pm Via Conference Call
Facilitated by Laurie Jordan, Director, Rainbow Connection F.R.C.
Join us by phone to learn about the basics of IEP’s (Individual Education Program). Different topics will be presented each time with the opportunity for discussion at the end. Please register to receive the
phone number, access code and have any handouts sent to you in advance.
Health Care Notebooks
Do you have a hard time keeping track of your health care information? Create your own personal notebook with a Rainbow staff person and/or other parents; learn more about the transition process and
get suggestions that might help with guidance from one of our staff
and/or other parents. Individual Appointments can be scheduled upon request. For persons
receiving services from TCRC.
All about Me
Create your child’s (or adult served by TCRC) Personal Profile. This is a great way to share valuable information. Simply give a copy of the Personal Profile to the people who will be interacting and working
with your child – the teacher, aides, therapists, etc. Give us a call and we’ll help you put together your child’s very own Personal Profile. Individual Appointments can be scheduled upon request. For
persons receiving services from TCRC.
What’s Next After Early Start? For Your Child with Special Needs
Will your child be turning 3 years old and transitioning out of the Early Start Program? Changes can be confusing. Come during the times above for informal discussions, and make transition a little easier.
You will receive a free booklet that has been helpful to other parents. Individual Appointments can be scheduled upon request.
For persons receiving services by TCRC.
For more information or to REGISTER call Rainbow Connection:
H Oxnard Office - (800) 332-3679 or (805) 485-9643, Spanish (805)485-9892
Oxnard Library Hours - Monday through Friday, 9:00am - 5:00pm
H Simi Office – (805) 823-2325 Simi Library Hours vary- please call.
Other COMMUNITY SUPPORT GROUPS on next page….
OTHER COMMUNITY SUPPORT GROUPS:
The following support groups can be contacted directly.
Activities
Brandon’s Buddies
A free play date for children of all abilities. 1st Sat of the month. Calabasas. To RSVP call Dina Kaplan 818 222-8118 brandonsbuddies@pacbell.net
HAPPY FRIENDS CLUB
Alternate Tuesdays 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm, Camarillo
Support group for adults & teens with mental/physical challenges. Speakers, games, arts & crafts, round table discussions, occasional community outings. Contact: Jean McGuire 805.816.2319 or email:
bobbyjean2@mac.com
Autism
ASAP: Asperger’s Support Group for Adolescents Plus! – English
A social support group for teens and young adults with Asperger’s or High-Functioning Autism. For more information log on to www.pause4kids.com
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Parent Support Group English
Meets 2nd Wednesday of the month at Rainbow Connection in Oxnard from 7 – 9pm. For more information go to asdparentsupportgroup@gmail.com *No meetings in the summer.
PAUSE4Kids Inc. – English
This support group is open to the public and there is no charge. If you plan to attend, please call or check the website to make sure there are no changes to the scheduling. For more information call Sue
Murphy at 805-482-7958 or log on to www.vcasap.org
Support Group for Parents of Kids with Autism
Meets on the last Monday of the month at 6:30. We provide child care. The address is 2697 Lavery Ct., Suite 17 Newbury Park. Contact Leila Silva at (805)480-9039 home or (805)341-3089 cell.
Ventura County Autism Society
The purpose of the Ventura County Autism Society is: To promote lifelong access and opportunity for all individuals within the autism spectrum and their families to be fully included
members of the community. We achieve this through: Education, advocacy, the promotion of research, increasing public awareness, and collaboration with other agencies.
For more information call Ventura County Autism Society at 805-496-1632 or www.vcas.info
A Break for Mom & Dad
Mom’s Night Out T.O. English 3rd Tuesday of the month &
Dad’s Night Out T.O. English 4th Tuesday of the month. For contact information call Rainbow.
Down Syndrome
Down Syndrome Parent Support Group
Parents of children with Down Syndrome come together to discuss issues and activities of mutual interest. Ever 1st Wednesday of the month at 6:30pm. Call 805 650-6290 to RSVP.
Tulipas & Triumphs Support Group
For parents of children with Down Syndrome. Monthly support group “meetings/ nights out”, dates vary each month. Please RSVP to Cheryl at 805-527-7445 or Landazuri98@hotmail.com for date/time and
location.
Generic Support Group
Special Parent’s Café
Is an informal group of parents, of children with special needs who meets to share information, take a break and make new friends. For more info contact Sandi @ 805.552.1917 or at
moorparknfl@sbcglobal.net or Kathy @ 805.915.8726 or at specialparentscafe@sbcglobal.net
Foster & Kinship Care Education
2010 Training Opportunities
Caring for Your At-Risk Infant (East County)
Trainers: Pattie Hunt & Wendy Homan
Tuesday, September 7th 6:00–9:00pm @ 250 Newbury Lane, Newbury Park
This program originates from the Pediatric Interim Care Center in Washington that models ways to provide a safe and healthy start for newborns going through withdrawal from heroine, methadone,
cocaine, methamphetamines and other illicit and prescription drugs. Signs of withdrawal in the infant, knowing when withdrawal begins and helpful techniques for caring for and calming this child will be
discussed. Sponsor: Moorpark College FKCE
Balancing Love & Discipline (West County)
Trainer: Stephanie Main, M.A.
Thursday, September 9th 6:30-9:00pm @ Ventura College 71 Day Rd, Ventura Room 4
Trying to walk the tightrope of loving children and disciplining them is something care providers do every day. What's too much and when’s too little? How can you be firm without being harsh? This
workshop introduces the concept of firm and kind unconditional love, and the value of more action and less talk. Sponsor: Ventura College FKCE
How to Have and Use a Successful IEP for your Child (East County)
Trainer: Laurie Jordan
Saturday, September 11th 9:30-11:30am
Cornerstone Church Room 11, 2080 Winifred St. Simi Valley
This class will identify some of the needs and challenges of children and families as the school year begins. Presenter will discuss IEP’s (Individualized Education Plans). An IEP is only as successful as
to how it specifically addresses the child’s needs to help him/her obtain the best education possible. What makes a child eligible for one? How do they work? Who will attend? How does this help my
child? Child care provided with pre-registration only. Sponsor: Moorpark College FKCE
Understanding Children with PTSD and Assessing Suicide Risks
Trainer: Jennifer Bailey MA
Thursday, September 16th 10:00am-noon
Interface Large Conference Room 1305 Del Norte Road, Camarillo
In this workshop we will explore signs and symptoms of PTSD in children and present ways to respond to PTSD issues in children and direct you to where you can get help for your child. We will also
discuss factors that would make a child consider suicide, identify signs of suicidality, ways to respond and where to get help.
Pre-register by contacting Bernadette Cardenas: 805-485-6114 or bcardenas@icfs.org or Carol Howell: 805-378-1400 ext. 1891 or chowell@vcccd.edu Sponsors: Interface & Ventura College FKCE
Kinship Navigation Support & Resources Program (East County)
Trainer: Audrey Slaugh, MFT intern from Kids & Families Together
Saturday, September 18th 9:00-11:30am
Crowley House 2522 Pleasant Way, Thousand Oaks
Do you know someone who is raising a grandchild or the child of a relative or friend? It is likely that they are struggling with feelings of guilt or isolation, confused about guardianship vs. adoption and need
support and resources to help them raise and nurture this child. Childcare provided. Sponsors: Kids & Families Together, Conejo Valley NfL; Moorpark College FKCE Carol Howell: 805-378-1400 ext.
1891 or chowell@vcccd.edu
Navigating Adoption (West County)
Trainers: Steve Mabry, MFT and Cindy Carver, M.A., Adoption Social Workers
Mondays: September 27th, October 4 & 11th 6:30-8:30pm @Aspiranet 1838 Eastman Ave. #100, Ventura
This series will cover important core issues for those who are considering adoption or for families that are currently walking the adoption journey. Join Adoption Social Workers, Steve Mabry and Cindy
Carver for a three week discussion on: Talking with Children about Adoption, Open Adoption, Expand your understanding of how race, ethnicity and culture impacts families who are formed through
adoption and Life Long Issues of Adoption. You will be provided practical ideas, a better understanding of the benefits and barriers of open adoption and new ways of addressing the adoption issues that
change as your child moves through his/her developmental stages. Sponsors: Aspiranet & Moorpark College FKCE
No Child Left Inside (West County)
Presenter: James Freeman on Tuesday September 28th 6:30-8:30pm @Aspiranet 1838 Eastman Ave. #100, Ventura
Engaging adoptive and foster children in outdoor experiences is a fun and low-cost way to make a positive investment in their personal growth and development. In this workshop, we will discuss the
benefits of exploring nature and identify practical ways to use the outdoors to help foster and adoptive children strengthen relationships and improve behaviors.
Sponsor: Moorpark College FKCE
Lifebooks Are Forever: Start Now (West County)
Trainer: Lynne Okun, MFT
2nd Saturday monthly, September 18th, October 9th, November 13th, December 11th 10am-noon
Kids & Families Together (Art Barn in back), 856 E. Thompson Blvd., Ventura
A lifebook is a place to keep birth information, letters, special memories, awards or certificates, photos from the past and ideas and hopes for the future. Each book will be as unique as the child it
celebrates. Books, creativity supplies and ideas will be provided for each pre-registrant, so bring a photo, drawing or other special item and begin to record those memories. Foster parents, CASA’s and
Mentors can make a difference for a lifetime with this special gift. Children age 5 and up are invited to participate in Kids' Arts Saturday morning program while caregivers participate in this unique workshop
up front at Kids & Families Together. Sponsor: Moorpark College FKCE
Baby Basics and Beyond (Two Locations and date/times)
Trainer: Pattie Hunt (West County)
2nd Tuesday morning monthly: Sept. 14th, Oct. 12th, Nov. 9th, Dec. 14th 9:30–11:30am
63 W. Calle El Prado, Oak View
Trainer: Mariana Abarta, R.N. (East County)
2nd Monday evening monthly: Oct. 11th, Nov. 8th, Dec. 13th 7:00–9:00pm
781 Devore Avenue, Simi Valley
Are you a new parent or caring for an infant as a foster or adoptive parent? It is likely that your little one came with a host of question marks (?????) Come, bring your infant and ask some of those
questions of experienced foster parent and mentors, Mariana Abarta and Pattie Hunt. Topics include: Calming the crying baby; Sleep issues; Feeding Issues; Red flags and other medical issues… Learn
about the expected and unique needs of each infant. Build confidence and increase your joy in nurturing your infant. Sponsor: Moorpark College FKCE
Kinship Parenting for relative care givers (West County)
Facilitator: Sylvia Orozco
2nd & 4th Tues monthly: Sept 14th & 28th, Oct 12th& 26th Nov 9th & 23rd, Dec 14th 6:00-8:00pm
Kids & Families Together 856 E. Thompson Blvd. Ventura
Kinship care is the full or part-time parenting of children by grandparents or other relatives. This monthly training group will explore the practical issues related to parenting a second generation and provide
tools and support to help you get and keep your bearing along the way. Sponsors: Ventura College FKC
CPR Recertification classes available in east and west county locations. Please call for dates and details:
Carrie McAuliffe 986-5800 ext. 1935
Carol Howell 378-1400 ext. 1891
For more information, call your local program office. Moorpark College 378-1400 ext. 1891, or Ventura College at 654-6327 or send an email to chowell@vcccd.edu or rcarlson@vcccd.edu
Please note: The Ventura County Community College Programs provide these classes to anyone wanting to attend. In all cases, first priority will go to Foster Parents and Kinship Providers. For “Parenting
Solutions” Series a book/workbook fee of $10-$20 may be charged for those who are not foster/kinship providers. All classes are subject to cancellation. Classes may be cancelled due to lack of pre-
registration or attendance. To enroll, fax or mail the pre-registration form to your local FKCE office.
Rainbow Connection Family
Resource Center
On-Going Activities, Trainings & Support Groups
We encourage you to attend a support groups at least once. You will be surprised at how much it will help you and how much you can help others. As there might not always be a support group
available for a specific diagnosis, we try to provide a parent match upon request. To register to attend or for a copy of the current “What’s Happening at Rainbow?” schedule of activities, please call
805 485-9643 or 800 332-3679
Activities
Social Time for Adults Receiving Services from TCRC (Bilingual)
Santa Paula Meets 1st Saturday of the month.Come, bring a friend or just come meet new people, for conversation, playing games or for refreshments and some fresh air.
Teddy Bear Brigade *No meetings during the summer.
Thousand Oaks 1-3pm Meets 3rd Saturday of the month, except for summer months.
For children 3 -13 years old with special needs and their siblings. It includes stories, sensory themes, crafts and music planned each month. Visit www.bearsandcompany.com to register or call
Rainbow. Parents meet separately for social and networking time.
Autism
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Parent Support Group (English)
Oxnard 7 – 9pm * No meetings during the summer.
Meets 2nd Wednesday of the month. Families meet to share the experiences they’ve had with their children with special needs and learn about resources.
You can connect with the group at asdparentsupportgroup@gmail.com
Autismo Support Group (Spanish)
Oxnard 7 - 8:30pm Meets 3rd Thursday of the month. Families meet to share the experiences and resources.
Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral Palsy Support Group - Simi (meets separately in English & Spanish)
9:30 – 11:00am Meets 3rd Monday of the month. Join other parents to talk about issues related to raising children with cerebral palsy and share resources and information.
G-tube/J-tube/NG-tube Networking (meets separately in English & Spanish)
6:30 – 8:00 Oxnard Meets 3rd Thursday of the month.
Does your child have a G-tube, J-tube, or NG-tube? Or has it been suggested? Families share stories of frustrations, fears, and successes (large & small).
Down Syndrome
Down Syndrome Support Group (meets separately in English & Spanish)
Oxnard 7pm – 8:30pm Meets last Thursday of the month. Families have open discussions on issues related to raising children with Down syndrome.
ON-GOING SUPPORT GROUPS continued on next page…
Epilepsy
Epilepsy Support Group (Bilingual)
Oxnard 6:30pm – 8:30pm Meets 1st Wednesday of the month. Families meet to share the experiences and resources.
Generic Support Groups
Early Start Support Group (Spanish)
Oxnard 10:30am – 12pm Meets 3rd Monday of the month. Families with children in the Early Start Program meet to share the experiences and resources.
Parents Connection – Fillmore (Spanish)
Meets 4th Monday of the month 10am – 11am.
Families of children with special needs meet at Burger King to connect and share information.
Santa Paula Support Group (Spanish)
Meets 1st Monday of the month 5:30pm – 7:00pm.
Families meet to share the experiences and resources.
Special Families Support Group (Spanish)
Oxnard 6:30pm – 8pm Meets 1st Friday of the month.
Families meet to share the experiences and resources.
Special Parents Network (English)
Oxnard 10am – 11:30am 3rd Wednesday of the month.
Simi 9:30 – 11am 3rd Thursday of the month. Come and join us for a cup of coffee, learn about our resources and talk about issues related to raising children with special needs.
Santa Clara Support Group - Fillmore, Piru (Spanish)
Meets 3rd Monday of the month 5:30 – 7:00pm.
Families meet to share the experiences they’ve had with their children with special needs and learn about resources.
Santa Paula Support Group (English)
Meets 4th Monday of the month 5:30pm – 7:00pm. Families meet to share the experiences they’ve had with their children with special needs and learn about resources.
Special Parents Ventura County Networking Group - Online
An online forum where parents of children with special needs can offer and receive support, referrals and information. This networking group provides families with a comfortable and convenient
environment for exchanging ideas and resources on everything from medical visits to IEP’s. Simply activate a free YAHOO user ID and Password account to log into this forum at http://groups.yahoo.
com/group/SpecialParentsVenturaCounty.
NICU
“MY BABY IS IN THE NICU NOW WHAT? (English & Spanish)
Oxnard 10am – 11am Meets 1st Monday of the month.
For families & parents of current & NICU grad’s. Info and resources: Breast feeding info & tips; Car Seat info; Discharge planning; Strategies for NICU survival and more…
NICU Support Group (meets separately in English & Spanish)
6:30 - 8:00pm Oxnard Meet other families & share ideas of coping, photos, info, joy & triumphs. Families with babies in the NICU & NICU grads welcome. Meets 3rd Wednesday of the month.
ON-GOING SUPPORT GROUPS continued on next page…
Sib Group
Sib club
Oxnard 6:30pm – 8pm * For Siblings Only *
Meets 1st Friday of the month. Games, Fun, Activities, for 5 – 14 years old siblings of children with developmental disabilities.
A Break for Mom
Rainbow Moms Day Out - Oxnard (Spanish)
Typically meets 3rd week of the month. Come and enjoy time with other mothers of children with special needs and have a relaxing time. For information or to RSVP please call Rainbow.
Rainbow Moms Connecting – Ventura County (English)
Meeting dates and times vary. Come and enjoy a night out with other mothers of children with special needs.
Trainings
The IEP Basics – English
Meets every first Monday of the month 12noon – 1pm Via Conference Call
Facilitated by Laurie Jordan, Director, Rainbow Connection F.R.C.
Join us by phone to learn about the basics of IEP’s (Individual Education Program). Different topics will be presented each time with the opportunity for discussion at the end. Please register to receive the
phone number, access code and have any handouts sent to you in advance.
Health Care Notebooks
Do you have a hard time keeping track of your health care information? Create your own personal notebook with a Rainbow staff person and/or other parents; learn more about the transition process and
get suggestions that might help with guidance from one of our staff
and/or other parents. Individual Appointments can be scheduled upon request. For persons
receiving services from TCRC.
All about Me
Create your child’s (or adult served by TCRC) Personal Profile. This is a great way to share valuable information. Simply give a copy of the Personal Profile to the people who will be interacting and working
with your child – the teacher, aides, therapists, etc. Give us a call and we’ll help you put together your child’s very own Personal Profile. Individual Appointments can be scheduled upon request. For
persons receiving services from TCRC.
What’s Next After Early Start? For Your Child with Special Needs
Will your child be turning 3 years old and transitioning out of the Early Start Program? Changes can be confusing. Come during the times above for informal discussions, and make transition a little easier.
You will receive a free booklet that has been helpful to other parents. Individual Appointments can be scheduled upon request.
For persons receiving services by TCRC.
For more information or to REGISTER call Rainbow Connection:
H Oxnard Office - (800) 332-3679 or (805) 485-9643, Spanish (805)485-9892
Oxnard Library Hours - Monday through Friday, 9:00am - 5:00pm
H Simi Office – (805) 823-2325 Simi Library Hours vary- please call.
Other COMMUNITY SUPPORT GROUPS on next page….
OTHER COMMUNITY SUPPORT GROUPS:
The following support groups can be contacted directly.
Activities
Brandon’s Buddies
A free play date for children of all abilities. 1st Sat of the month. Calabasas. To RSVP call Dina Kaplan 818 222-8118 brandonsbuddies@pacbell.net
HAPPY FRIENDS CLUB
Alternate Tuesdays 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm, Camarillo
Support group for adults & teens with mental/physical challenges. Speakers, games, arts & crafts, round table discussions, occasional community outings. Contact: Jean McGuire 805.816.2319 or email:
bobbyjean2@mac.com
Autism
ASAP: Asperger’s Support Group for Adolescents Plus! – English
A social support group for teens and young adults with Asperger’s or High-Functioning Autism. For more information log on to www.pause4kids.com
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Parent Support Group English
Meets 2nd Wednesday of the month at Rainbow Connection in Oxnard from 7 – 9pm. For more information go to asdparentsupportgroup@gmail.com *No meetings in the summer.
PAUSE4Kids Inc. – English
This support group is open to the public and there is no charge. If you plan to attend, please call or check the website to make sure there are no changes to the scheduling. For more information call Sue
Murphy at 805-482-7958 or log on to www.vcasap.org
Support Group for Parents of Kids with Autism
Meets on the last Monday of the month at 6:30. We provide child care. The address is 2697 Lavery Ct., Suite 17 Newbury Park. Contact Leila Silva at (805)480-9039 home or (805)341-3089 cell.
Ventura County Autism Society
The purpose of the Ventura County Autism Society is: To promote lifelong access and opportunity for all individuals within the autism spectrum and their families to be fully included
members of the community. We achieve this through: Education, advocacy, the promotion of research, increasing public awareness, and collaboration with other agencies.
For more information call Ventura County Autism Society at 805-496-1632 or www.vcas.info
A Break for Mom & Dad
Mom’s Night Out T.O. English 3rd Tuesday of the month &
Dad’s Night Out T.O. English 4th Tuesday of the month. For contact information call Rainbow.
Down Syndrome
Down Syndrome Parent Support Group
Parents of children with Down Syndrome come together to discuss issues and activities of mutual interest. Ever 1st Wednesday of the month at 6:30pm. Call 805 650-6290 to RSVP.
Tulipas & Triumphs Support Group
For parents of children with Down Syndrome. Monthly support group “meetings/ nights out”, dates vary each month. Please RSVP to Cheryl at 805-527-7445 or Landazuri98@hotmail.com for date/time and
location.
Generic Support Group
Special Parent’s Café
Is an informal group of parents, of children with special needs who meets to share information, take a break and make new friends. For more info contact Sandi @ 805.552.1917 or at
moorparknfl@sbcglobal.net or Kathy @ 805.915.8726 or at specialparentscafe@sbcglobal.net
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