November 2008

Parents' Bulletin Board
The deadline for the December Parents’ Bulletin Board is November 1.

November 5: Lifelong Issues After Egg and Sperm Donation. 7 p.m. The decision to use donor gametes often raises concerns for parents in what, when and how to tell their children conceived in this way. Join this informal discussion with counseling staff and former patients. Shady Grove Fertility Reproductive Science Center, Rockville. Registration: www.shadygrovefertility.com.

November 5: Stop the Yelling, Start the Cooperation. 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. Learn to motivate cooperation without raising your voice, and create a more harmonious (and quiet) household. $$. Parent Encouragement Program, Kensington. Registration: 301-929-8824.

November 6: International Adoption Information Meeting. 7 – 8:15 p.m. Learn about adopting children from Russia, Azerbaijan, Korea, China, Colombia, Bulgaria and Moldova. Adoptions Together, Herndon. Registration: 301-439-2900.

November 8: It's All About You Women's Health Expo. 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Enjoy free health screenings, infant CPR classes, chair massages, seminars on topics including breast health, pre-pregnancy and pregnancy health, work/life balance and menopause, and health and wellness exhibitors. Inova Alexandria Hospital. Registration: 703-750-8800.

November 11-December 16: How to Talk So Kids Will Listen. Tuesdays, 9:45 – 11:15 a.m. in Annandale. Tuesdays, 7 – 8:45 p.m. in Arlington. Francine Ronis, LPC, offers this six-session course based on the book “How to Talk So Kids Will Listen and Listen So Kids Will Talk.” Topics will include positive discipline, emotional intelligence, alternatives to punishment, cooperation, conflict resolution and more. $$. Registration: 571-213-9215.

November 11-December 2: New Parent Group for Adoptive Parents. Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m. – noon. A new parent group, facilitated by a social worker, is forming for parents who have adopted children since January 2008. The Barker Foundation, Bethesda. Registration: 301-664-9664 or vmakovsky@barkerfoundation.org.

November 11: Parents of Adopted Teenagers Discussion Group. 7 – 9 p.m. A social worker facilitates this discussion group for parents with adopted teenagers. The Barker Foundation, Bethesda. Registration: 301-664-9664 or vmakovsky@barkerfoundation.org.

November 12: Homework: How to Make Things Work Without Getting Worked Up. 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. Also November 17 at Monart Drawing Studio, North Potomac. Learn how to support your children emotionally in the homework process, including teaching organization, helping them find their best work style, allowing them to make mistakes and staying positive. $$. Parent Encouragement Program, Kensington. Registration: 301-929-8824.

November 12: Planning for Safe Teen Driving. 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. Find out how families can work together to substantially reduce the risks of crashes in the first years of teen driving. $$. Parent Encouragement Program, Kensington. Registration: 301-929-8824.

November 12: Surviving the Holidays. 7 – 9 p.m. Stay sane during this stressful time. Learn strategies from mental health experts for surviving the holidays with your sanity. $$. Jones Day Building, Washington, DC. Registration: www.midatlantic.resolve.org.

November 12: Using Conflict Resolution Techniques to Have the Best Holiday Ever. 7 – 8:45 p.m. Good communication among relatives makes a family gathering the heartwarming event we yearn for. This workshop teaches participants a range of useful conflict resolution techniques and communication skills that they can use during the holidays and after. $$. Montgomery County Commission for Women Counseling & Career Center, Rockville. Registration: 240-777-8300.

November 13: Mind/Body Fertility Workshop. 6:30 – 9 p.m. Learn and practice techniques that help you slow down, mentally and metabolically, and discuss fertility-related topics. $$. Heal From Within, Washington, DC. Registration: 202-244-2289 or www.heal-from-within.com.

November 15-24: Managing Anger. Wednesdays, 9:45 – 11:45 a.m. at Parent Encouragement Program, Kensington. Mondays, 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. at Washington Ethical Society. Learn ways to change what you think, say and do to express your concerns in more positive, effective ways and how to help children learn coping strategies and techniques. $$. Registration: 301-929-8824.

November 15: Be a Conscious, Mindful Parent. 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Learn to identify and remove blocks that keep you from being the parent you want to be. Explore the role of attachment, individual issues, common beliefs about children, meditation, alternatives to punishment, how to have more patience and more. Falls Church. Registration: 571-213-9215.

November 15: Successful Private Adoption Workshop. 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Social workers, attorneys, birth parents and adoptive parents present seminars on topics including legal information, home study, open adoption or confidentiality, ways to avoid contested adoptions, advertising strategies and birth parent perspectives. $$. Grace Episcopal School, Kensington. Registration: www.ffpa.org.

November 18: Domestic and International Adoption Information Meeting. 7 – 9 p.m. Learn about adopting children from the United States, Russia, Azerbaijan, Korea, China, Colombia, Bulgaria and Moldova. Adoptions Together, Silver Spring. Registration: 301-439-2900.

November 19: The Five Keys to Raising Motivated, Positive, Capable Kids. 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. Edward M. Hallowell, M.D., presents practical and proven insights on how you can focus on what really matters in parenting and discover the balance between doing too much or too little to raise happy, connected, responsible kids. $$. Bullis School, Potomac. Registration: 301-929-8824.

November 19: Pediatric Health & Wellness Event. 7 p.m. A team of professionals will discuss topics including “The Importance of Nutrition and Exercise for Your Child,” “Simple Healthy Eating: The Square Meal Is Back” and “Improve Your Child's Fitness, Motivation and Self-Esteem.” A question and answer session will follow. Fitness for Health, Rockville. Registration: 301-231-7138.

November 19: Tele-Seminar Series: Talking to Birth Moms. 9 p.m. Suzanne Nichols, Esq., hosts a free tele-seminar on how to talk to birth moms during the adoption process. Registration: http://midatlantic.resolve.org.

November 21: Divorce Legal Seminar – Overview of Child-Related Issues. 7 – 8:45 p.m. This seminar will focus on legal and physical custody, visitation, child support and health insurance benefits. $$. Montgomery County Commission for Women Counseling & Career Center, Rockville. Registration: 240-777-8300.

November 25: Tele-Seminar Series: Treatment Options: OB/GYN vs. Fertility Specialist. 9 p.m. Dr. Manny Singh hosts a free tele-seminar detailing the differences in treatment options between OB/GYNs and fertility specialists. Registration: http://midatlantic.resolve.org.

ONGOING IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER

Affordable Therapy Available: The Family Service Center at the University of Maryland offers low-cost therapy for individuals, couples and families in the community. For more information, call 301-405-2273 or 301-405-3659.

Amigas Vecinas: A free, online group for parents in the metro DC area who are interested in raising their children bilingually (in Spanish). The group meets once a month for Spanish stories and songs in Northern Virginia. For more information or to join, visit: www.geocities.com/amigas_y_vecinas.

At-Home-Fathers/DC Metro Dads: A network of stay-at-home fathers living in the Washington, DC, Maryland and NoVa metro area. To learn more about the weekly playgroups, monthly luncheons and unscheduled activities for dads and kids, as well as the monthly “Dads Night Out” and “Dad’s Penny Poker Night,” visit www.dcmetrodads.com. NoVa Playgroup meets each Wednesday morning at 10:30 a.m. in Fairfax, VA. Derwood Playgroup meets each Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. in Montgomery Co., MD. Bowie Area Playgroup meets each Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. in Bowie, MD.

Attachment Parenting International-DC: A support group for parents interested in learning about or practicing attachment-style parenting meets on the third Tuesday of the month. For locations and details, visit www.attachmentparentingdc.org or call 202-246-5113.

Bereaved Parents of the USA PWC Chapter Support Group: A support group for all bereaved parents, siblings and grandparents suffering the loss of a child, sibling or grandchild at any age and from any cause. Meets the fourth Sunday of the month from 3-5 p.m. at the Hylton Education Center, Potomac Hospital, Woodbridge. 703-869-1363 or shelbygay@comcast.net.

Breastfeeding Mom’s Group: Thursdays 10:30 a.m. – noon. Experienced maternal-infant nurse/lactation consultant facilitates the group discussions. Complimentary parking, baby weight check, refreshments and resource information. Inova Fairfax Hospital, 703-776-MILK (6455).

CAF: Seminars and support groups for children and families formed by adoption or foster/kinship care and for families with special needs. 301-422-5100 or caf@adoptionstogether.org.

Center for Adoption Support and Education (CASE): Specialized services for adopted children, their families and community. Programs in the Washington area. 301-476-8525.

CHADD Adult Support Group: Meets the first Monday of each month at the Silver Spring Center from 7:30-9:15 p.m. Please visit our web site at www.chadd-mc.org.

Clubfoot Support Group: Support group for parents of children born with clubfoot. Meets the last Saturday of the month at 1 p.m. at Borders Café, Fairfax. 703-764-8023.

Community Psychiatric Clinic: Offers ongoing activities for children of elementary-high school age to improve self-esteem, peer relationships, social skills, plus workshops and groups for children dealing with separation and divorce. 301-589-2303.

Co-Parenting: Two Parents, Two Homes: Several sessions each month sponsored by Fairfax County Parenting Education Center. Class for parents who are negotiating custody, visitation and child support with a focus on the responsibilities of parenting from separate households. $$ Call for details: 703-277-2666.

Every Child Deserves a Family: Become a foster parent. Stable, loving homes are needed for boys and girls who must temporarily be separated from their families due to abuse and neglect. For more information, contact The Information Line, Montgomery County Child Welfare Service at 240-777-1664.

Fairfax County Mothers of Multiples: A support group for mothers of twins or greater, will meet at 7:30 p.m. on the first Wednesday of the month at the Ponds Community Center in Burke. 703-715-MOMS.

Fairfax Victim Assistance Network: Support group for parents and caretakers of a child sexually assaulted by someone outside the family. Reservations. Springfield. 703-360-7273 (TTY 703-799-8253).

Families for Russian and Ukrainian Adoption (FRUA-DC): Support group for MD/NoVA/DC families who have adopted or are considering adoption from the former Soviet Union. For more information, visit www.frua.org/dc or call 866-206-9067 x6940.

Families With Children from China (FCC): Network of support groups in the US, Canada and UK for parents who have adopted children from China. Members can enjoy newsletters, directories, family get-togethers, Chinese festivals and holiday celebrations, information meetings, playgroups, language and culture classes and parent speakers. For more information, visit http://FCCcapital.com.

Family and Home Network: A national nonprofit organization, which provides parents with support and encouragement as they nurture their children. Volunteers are sought in our Fairfax office to assist with a wide range and variety of duties. Children are always welcome. Call: 703-352-1072.

Fatherhood Matters: Taught by veteran fathers for expectant and new fathers, this group addresses adjustment issues and concerns relating to family relationships, parenting and sexuality. Meets the first Sunday of every other month, 1-6 p.m. at Washington Hospital Center. 202-877-6161.

Foster Parents Needed: Northern Virginia families looking to make a difference in a child’s life can consider foster parenting. Abused and neglected children need your help; we provide training, support and financial compensation, you provide the love. Orientations are taking place soon in your area. Contact Northern Virginia Family Service at 703-219-2184.

GoodKnight.org, Mothers Against Predators, USA Freedom Corps & NEA: Organizations have joined forces to protect children from abduction and assault by distributing free bilingual (English/Spanish) materials and programs. This is one of the most comprehensive, character-development abduction prevention programs available. For more information and to obtain free materials, visit www.goodknight.org or call 301-595-8989.

Higher Achievement Program (HAP): Academic and cultural enrichment program seeks caring, committed tutors for small groups of DC 5th-8th graders. Volunteers tutor one night a week and are given curriculum. 202-544-3633.

Holistic Moms Network – Northern Virginia Chapter: A community-building coalition for those interested in natural health and mindful parenting, offering monthly meetings, playgroups, lending libraries and more. http://home.homewebs.com/hmnnova

ICAN of Northern Virginia: Works to lower the rate of unnecessary cesareans, supports vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC), provides support for cesarean recovery and encourages positive birthing through education and advocacy. Meets on the third Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library, Falls Church. 703-790-8088 or meetings@icanofnova.org.

Infant Massage Workshop: Offered on the second Monday of the month from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. A hands-on instructional forum for babies and their caretakers, this class teaches proven techniques to soothe, calm and stimulate your baby and establishes healthy touch boundaries for both giver and receiver. Circle Yoga, Washington, DC. Registration: 202-686-1104.

Interracial Family Circle (IFC): The IFC is a support group for interracial families offering programs to educate its members and the greater community about issues pertaining to interracial and multicultural families. IFC also sponsors social events and activities geared to young children and adolescents. For more information about IFC, visit the website at www.interracialfamilycircle.org.

The Jewish Social Service Agency of Metropolitan Washington: Offers a variety of support groups focusing on youth. Some programs may be insurance-reimbursable. Locations in MD: Rockville, Gaithersburg and Bethesda. In VA: Fairfax. Call: 301-990-6880.

Kidsave Weekend Miracles: Help children ages 12 and up in DC foster care find adoptive families. Become a host parent for a child who is waiting to be adopted. Even if you don't plan to adopt, you can help that child meet other people in order to find an adoptive family. Come to an orientation or an upcoming family event to learn more. Visit www.kidsave.org/wkend_mir_dc.shtml or call 202-237-7283 for details.

La Leche League: The breastfeeding support group offers help and support to mothers who are currently breastfeeding a child or anyone who plans to breastfeed. Expectant and new mothers are encouraged to attend. All moms and babies are welcome. For more information, visit www.lalecheleague.org. Local branches meet as follows:

• Ashburn: Will meet on the first Friday of the month at 10:15 a.m. at the Ashburn Library. 703-723-9891.
• Burke: Will meet on the first Saturday of the month at 9:30 a.m. For time and location, call 703-256-2754 or 703-323-7301.
• Centreville/Chantilly AM: Will meet on the third Thursday of the month at 10 a.m. at the Centreville Library. 703-471-7762 or 571-522-6181.
• Centreville/Chantilly PM: Will meet on the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. At the Centreville Library. 703-471-7762 or 571-522-6181.
• Columbia AM: Will meet on the first Friday of the month at 10 a.m. at the Owen Brown Community Center, Columbia. 410-309-4940, 301-421-1177 or 410-461-3423.
• Columbia PM: Will meet on the third Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at the Owen Brown Community Center, Columbia. 410-309-4940, 301-421-1177 or 410-461-3423.
• Fairfax City: Will meet on the second Wednesday of the month at 10 a.m. at the Fairfax Christian Church. 703-629-0010 or 703-385-0527.
• Falls Church/McLean: Will meet on the first Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library. 703-208-9785.
• Herndon/Reston: Will meet on the fourth Wednesday of the month at 10 a.m. at the Herndon Fortnightly Library. LaLeche League Leaders are available to answer breastfeeding questions. 703-476-0452 or 703-716-4872.
• Olney/ North Silver Spring: Will meet on the last Monday of the month at 10:15 a.m. at the Olney Library. 301-570-9156.
• Potomac/Rockville: Will meet on the second Monday of the month at 10 a.m. at the Potomac Community Center. 301-365-6141 or 301-581-0901.
• Springfield: Will meet on the second Friday of the month at 10:30 a.m. at Messiah Methodist Church. 703-644-0402.
• Takoma Park: Will meet on the fourth Wednesday of the month at 10 a.m. at the TESS Center. 301-270-4710 or 301-585-7575.
• Upper Montgomery County: Will meet on the third Thursday of the month at 10 a.m. at the Unity Christ Church , Gaithersburg. 301-528-1690.
• Vienna: Will meet on the first Wednesday of the month at 10 a.m. at the American Legion Post. 703-281-5801 or 703-716-4872.
• Western Howard County: Will meet on the fourth Wednesday of the month at 10 a.m. at the Linden-Linthicum United Methodist Church, Clarksville. 410-864-8080 or 410-905-5208.

La Tasca: Kids eat free on Saturdays, all day until 6 p.m. They’ll enjoy a children’s menu and Spanish-themed activity placemats. Watch live flamenco shows on Fridays at 8:45 p.m. and 9:20 p.m. 7th Street, NW, Washington, DC & Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA. Visit www.latascausa.com for more details.

Lawyers at Home: Are you a lawyer taking time off? The Lawyers at Home Forum of the Women’s Bar Association of DC provides support, networking and ideas on staying professionally involved. For more information, call 301-570-6395 or e-mail pewhitt@yahoo.com.

Leaping Kids: A mother's group where each mother has a hand in organizing and planning activities, such as weekly morning and afternoon playgroups, Mother's and Couple's Nights Out, book club, scrapbook club, wine tastings, holiday parties, family outings and more. Gaithersburg. Visit http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Leaping_Kids_of_Washington_DC for more information.

Life as a New Mom Group: Meet new moms and babies at this supportive informal discussion group. Meets the fourth Saturday of the month from 3-6 p.m. at Washington Hospital Center. 202-877-8806.

Loudoun Breast Health Network: Join the new Loudoun Breast Outreach Group, promoting breast health in Loudoun County. All Loudoun County citizens are welcome. The focus will be on support groups, outreach programs and education. Meets the third Wednesday of the month at 6 p.m. at the Landsdowne Hospital Conference Room A/B, Leesburg. For more information, contact Sue Robinson: 703-777-3318 or robinssi@mindspring.com.

Loudoun County Parents Support Group: Meets some Tuesdays at the SuccessLab Learning Centers in Old Town Ashburn. Parents can come to be heard, be understood, help each other with their unique struggles and learn about the amazing qualities children with ADHD possess. The group will provide positive, practical solutions and action steps to help families affected by ADHD thrive. For more information on joining, contact Kirk Martin at 703-508-7908 or kirk1martin@aol.com.

Maryland Mom’s Circle on Yahoo Online: For stay-at-home moms and moms who work out of the home. We have a website, calendar and post-board. Members post about recipes, advice, frustrations and more. Visit http://groups.yahoo.com/group/michellechad770 for more information.

Mocha Moms of Silver Spring – Support Group Meeting for Stay-at-Home and Working Moms: Meets every Wednesday from 10 a.m. – noon at the East County Community Center, Silver Spring. Meets on Friday instead of Wednesday during the last week of the month. For more information, visit http://silverspringmocha.tripod.com or e-mail mochamomssilverspring@yahoo.com.

MOMS Clubs: A national support group for mothers who primarily stay at home with their children, including those who have home-based businesses or work part-time but are home with their children during the day. The group offers a wide range of activities, including special programs for mothers, playgroups for children, a monthly Moms Night Out and get-togethers for the whole family. For more information, visit www.momsclub.org. Local branches meet as follows:

• Alexandria NE: Will meet on the last Tuesday of the month at 10 a.m. Membership is open to all who live in zip codes 22301, 22302, 22305, 22314. Historic Christ Church in Old Town. 866-251-5169 x1083.
• Alexandria West: Will meet on the second Tuesday of the month at 10 a.m. at the Fairlington Presbyterian Church. Membership is open to all who live in zip codes 22304, 22311, 22312 and 22313 in West Alexandria. Call 703-517-6503 or e-mail alexvamoms@yahoo.com.
• Ashburn Village: Will meet on the third Monday of every month at 10:30 a.m. at the Ashburn Library. E-mail ashburnmomsclub@yahoo.com.
• Burke-North: Will meet the second Thursday of the month. 866-841-9139 x1581.
• Centreville – North: Will meet on the fourth Friday of the month at 10:30 a.m. at the Sully Government Center. Membership is open to all who live in zip code 20120. E-mail momsclubcnva@hotmail.com.
• Chevy Chase/Kensington: Will meet on the last Monday of the month at 10:15 a.m. at the Chevy Chase Library. E-mail cckmomsclub@yahoo.com or visit www.chevychasekensingtonmomsclub.com.
• Falls Church – South Chapter: Will meet on the first Friday of the month at 9:45 a.m. at the Knox Presbyterian Church. www.geocities.com/fcmomsouth.
• Gaithersburg: Will meet on the third Friday of the month at 10 a.m. at the Gaithersburg Presbyterian Church. 301-330-6072.
• Germantown-Great Seneca: Will meet on the third Wednesday of the month at the Germantown Community Center. Visit www.greatsenecamomsclub.com or e-mail greatsenecamomsclub@gmail.com.
• Kensington Park: Will meet on the last Wednesday of the month at 10:15 a.m. at the Kensington Park Library. Visit www.kensingtonparkmoms.com or e-mail kpmomsclub@yahoo.com.
• Laurel: Will meet on the first Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at Our Savior Lutheran Church. 301-776-4989.
• Laytonsville: E-mail momslaytonsvillemembership@yahoo.com for meeting time and location.
• McLean: Will meet on the last Friday of the month at Tysons-Pimmitt Library. 703-942-8548.
• Montgomery Village: Will meet on the first Tuesday of the month at 10:30 a.m. at the North Creek Community Center. 301-978-9762.
• Norbeck Chapter of Rockville/Silver Spring: Will meet on the second Tuesday of the month at 9:30 a.m. at the Chinese Bible Church on Muncaster Mill Rd. Serving zip codes 20853 and 20906. E-mail momsofnorbeck@yahoo.com.
• North Chapter of Rockville: Will meet on the third Friday of the month at the Gaithersburg Library at 10 a.m. 301-424-3779.
• North Potomac: Will meet on the third Monday of the month at 10:30 a.m. at the Quince Orchard Library. E-mail momsclub_np@yahoo.com.
• Potomac: Will meet on the third Monday of the month at 10:30 a.m. at the Potomac Community Center. E-mail momspotomac@gmail.com or call 301-762-4460.
• Reston: Will meet on the second Wednesday of the month at 10 a.m. Open to residents of zip codes: 20190, 20191, 20194. Call for location: 1-800-520-0818 x1524.
• Rockville: Will meet on the third Friday of the month at 10 a.m. Bauer Drive Community Center, Rockville. 301-279-7395.
• Rockville Central: Will meet on the third Monday of the month at 10 a.m. at the Elwood Smith Community Center, Rockville. E-mail rockvillemomsclub@yahoo.com.
• Rockville South: Will meet on the last Friday of the month at the Twinbrook Community Center. www.momsrockvillesouth.org.
• South Arlington: Will meet on the second Thursday of the month at 9:30 a.m. at the Walter Reed Community Center. 703-920-3778.
• Springfield: Will meet on the last Monday of the month at 10:30 a.m. at the Kirkwood Presbyterian Church. Membership is open to all who live in zip codes 22009, 22150, 22151, 22152, 22153, 22156, 22158, 22159, 22160, 22161, 22079 and 22199. Visit www.momsclubspringfieldva.org, e-mail moms@momsclubspringfieldva.org or call 703-569-1357.
• Sterling: Will meet on the third Friday of the month at 10:30 a.m. at the Cascades Library. Visit www.geocities.com/sterlingmomsclub or e-mail sterlingmomsclub@yahoo.com.
• Uptown Bethesda: Will meet on the first Thursday of the month at 10:30 a.m. at the Bradley Hills Church. E-mail momsclubofbethesda@yahoo.com.
• Waldorf: Will meet on the second Thursday of the month at 10:30 a.m. at the Peace Lutheran Church. E-mail momsofwaldorfnw@yahoo.com.
• Washington, DC: For meeting time and location, e-mail momsdcnw@yahoo.com, visit www.momsclubdc.org or call 202-686-8268.
• Wheaton: Will meet at 11 a.m. at the Wheaton Library. Call for dates: 301-933-4256.

Moms, Inc.: Support group for moms who have a home-based business or those who wish to start one. Meets the second Tuesday of every month at 10 a.m. at Linden-Linthicum United Methodist Church, Clarksville, MD. Call 410-795-8390.

MONA (Mothers of North Arlington): A supportive environment for mothers who primarily stay at home with their children, including those who have home-based businesses. The group will meet on the second Thursday of the month at 10 a.m. at the Cherrydale United Methodist Church. For more information or to join this group, visit www.geocities.com/arlnmomsclub or call 866-248-7670x1021.

Moore than Yoga: Classes include prenatal yoga, postpartum yoga, infant massage and children's yoga. $$ Bethel United Church of Christ, Arlington. Visit www.moorethanyoga.com or call 703-671-2435.

Mother and Baby Matters, Inc.: Offers prenatal breastfeeding class, class for mothers returning to work, a support group for mothers and their babies and other services. Call 703-787-4007 or visit motherandbabymatters.com.

Mothers First: Support group for women making the transition from careers to at-home motherhood. Activities include lectures, field trips, moms-night-out, etc. For more information, call 703-827-5922 or visit www.mothersfirst.org. Local branches meet as follows, information subject to change:

• Ashburn: Will meet the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 10:15 a.m. at the Ashburn Library.
• Burke: Will meet the first and fourth Tuesday of the month at 10:30 a.m. at the Kings Park Library, Burke.
• Chantilly/Centreville: Will meet the first and third Thursday of the month at 10:15 a.m. at the Centreville Regional Library.
• Fairfax: Will meet the first and third Tuesday of the month at 10:15 a.m. at the Green Acres Center, Fairfax.
• Great Falls: Contact Mothers First for schedule information.
• Leesburg: Will meet the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 10:15 a.m. at the Ashburn Library.
• Reston/Herndon: Will meet the first and second Wednesday of the month at 10 a.m. at the Herndon Fortnightly Library.
• Vienna/McLean: Will meet the first and third Tuesday of the month at 10:15 a.m. at the Patrick Henry Library, Vienna.

Mothers At Home: National nonprofit supporting mothers choosing to forego or decrease paid employment. Monthly journal, books and more. Visit www.FamilyandHome.org or call 1-800-783-4666 for a free information packet.

Mothers & More of Northern Virginia: A support organization for women who have altered their career paths to care for their young children at home. General meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month at the Fairfax County Government Center at 7:30 p.m. and on the third Wednesday of each month at the Kings Park Library in Burke at 7:30 p.m. 866-716-7766.

Mothers/Parents Circle: The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington and the Jewish Outreach Institute are offering this program of free educational events and resources for parents raising Jewish children within the context of intermarriage or a committed relationship. The program, which focuses on Jewish rituals, ethics and the creation of a Jewish home, includes regular meetings, group Shabbat and holiday observances. For more information on joining, visit www.shalomdc.org.

National Alliance for the Mentally Ill of Virginia (NAMI VA): Offers information, referrals, education and advocacy for children and families affected by serious mental illness. Free newsletter. 804-285-8264.

New Mom Support Group: Meets weekly in Tenleytown, Washington, D.C., 10:30 a.m. – noon. Explore your changing self as you grow as a parent, nurture yourself as a key part of parenting and develop relationships with other new mothers. $$. Contact Allison Fellowes Comly for information: 202-841-3697 or fellowescomly@excite.com.

New Moms Support Group: Meets weekly in Friendship Heights 7:30 – 9 p.m. Contact Jennifer Kogan for information: 202-215-2790 or www.jenniferkogan.com.

NOVA CHADD Support Groups: For parents of children with AD/HD. For more information, call 703-641-5451 or visit www.novachadd.org. Local branches meet as follows:

• Annandale/Springfield: Will meet the fourth Wednesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at St. John’s Methodist Church, Springfield.
• Falls Church/McLean: Will meet the third Wednesday of the month at 7:45 p.m. At 115 Rowell Court, Suite 2, Falls Church.
• Herndon/Reston: Will meet the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at the Herndon Fortnightly Library.
• Woodbridge: Will meet the fourth Monday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at Bethel United Methodist Church, Woodbridge.

Northern VA Psychotherapy Associates, Herndon: Kathi Whitten, LSCW. Discussion groups about parenting and step-parenting. 703-742-6043 or www.novapsych.com.

Oakley Cabin Needs Volunteers: Montgomery County’s only African-American historic house museum is looking for volunteers interested in African-American history to be guides at Oakley Cabin in Brookeville, Md. Individuals over age 14 and families are urged to apply. Call or e-mail Susan Soderberg for details: 301-563-3405 or susan.soderberg@mncppc-mc.org.

Outreach Program for Children with Gender Variant Traits and Their Families: Monthly parenting support group sponsored by Children’s National Medical Center to help parents of children with gender-variant behaviors by affirming their uniqueness. For more information, call 202-884-2504 or e-mail pgroup@cnmc.org.

PACE (Parent and Community Education): Offering a group for moms expecting their second baby or who already have a newborn. $$ Contact Becky Fischbein for more information: 301-854-2554.

The Parent Encouragement Program: Parenting classes for parents of children from birth through the teen years and specialty classes and workshops for parents and professionals, couples and families. Speakers available. Locations in MD and VA. 301-929-8824.

Parents Without Partners: Offers family events, discussions and adult socials. Chapter #60 covers Montgomery County, Frederick County, Northern Prince George's County, Columbia and Washington, DC. 301-588-9354 or www.pwp60.org.

Parent/Toddler Class at Temple Micah: Friday mornings, 10 – 11:30 a.m. beginning in the fall. For children ages 18 months to 3 years. The class will be led by an experienced teacher who will facilitate free play, arts and crafts projects, circle time and snack with a brief parent discussion. Children will be exposed to Jewish topics. Temple Micah, Washington, D.C. For information or to register for 12-week sessions, visit www.templemicah.org or e-mail Debby Cooper at cooperdeb@aol.com.

PFLAG: Support groups led by trained facilitators in an effort to help families heal and stay together. Confidentiality is maintained. 301-439-3524, 202-638-3852 or www.PFLAGDC.org.

Post-Adoption Support Group: Share and explore issues related to relinquishment, search, reunion and the lifelong effects of adoption. All Triad members invited. Bethesda. For more information, call 202-298-1011 or e-mail dcmetrocub@aol.com.

Postpartum Depression Support Groups: Free peer-led support groups available for mothers suffering from postpartum depression and other postpartum mood disorders. Led by women who have survived postpartum depression and are a source of support and encouragement for women currently suffering from it. Group leaders are available for telephone support and can provide information about mental health professionals who have experience treating women with postpartum mood disorders.

• Arlington: Will meet the second and fourth Wednesday of the month. Call 703-243-2904 or e-mail griffens@comcast.net for meeting time and location.
• Fairfax: Will meet the first and third Wednesday of the month at the Inova Fair Oaks Hospital. Call 703-536-9469 or e-mail j-bsims@comcast.net for meeting time.
• Fredericksburg: Will meet Thursdays. Call 703-300-1436 or e-mail mclemovich@yahoo.com for meeting dates, time and location.
• Loudoun County: Will meet the second and fourth Monday of the month at Loudoun Hospital. Call 703-858-8941 or e-mail ndgriffin@verizon.net for meeting time.
• Washington, DC: Will meet the second and fourth Wednesday of the month at St. David's Episcopal Church. Call 202-352-8527 or e-mail smasterson@perinatalproject.com for meeting time.

Preemies Today: A preemie parent support group in Northern VA, MD and DC. Member benefits include parent support, online support, family gatherings, educational seminars and more. www.preemiestoday.org.

Prince William County Area Single Parents: A group for single parents who are “outside of the Beltway” with varied events in locations more convenient to the areas in which we reside. A friendly, laid-back, nonjudgmental, accepting, positive, supportive community close to home for single parents who wish to get out with or without their kids and have fun with others who understand their unique situation. Visit http://singleparents.meetup.com/542 for more information.

Prince William County Park Authority Seeks Volunteers: The First Tee of Prince William County is seeking qualified volunteers to help teach curriculum classes and mentor youth at the Lake Ridge Park Golf & Marina, Forest Greens Golf Club, General’s Ridge Golf Course and Prince William Golf Course. No golf experience necessary. For more information and to apply, e-mail Jenny Vogt at jvogt@pwcparks.org.

Rainbow Families DC: A social and support network for DC-area lesbian and gay parents. Sign up for list-serves, get information about events, share resources and more. For more information, visit www.rainbowfamiliesdc.org.

Shady Grove Adventist Hospital: Childbirth, parent education, sibling and grandparent and exercise classes. 301-279-6000.

ShalomBaby: ShalomBaby is a program that welcomes any Jewish baby born or adopted within the past year to the Washington Jewish community, providing home delivery of ShalomBaby bags, goodies and information for new parents, a listserv to facilitate information sharing and more. To receive a ShalomBaby gift bag, call 301-348-7313. ShalomBaby Welcome Ambassadors are also needed. For more information on becoming a Welcome Ambassador, call 1-888-246-1818.

Silver Diner Kids Appreciation Night: Tuesdays, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. A night just for kids with activities, music and great food. Appropriate for ages 1-12, no registration is required. Silver Diner, Springfield. Call 703-924-1701 or visit www.silverdiner.com for a complete listing of activities.

Social Skills/Therapy Groups: Children with ADHD or other challenges learn appropriate social behaviors in interacting, listening, sharing, problem solving, self-control, handling teasing, dealing with emotions and making friends. Call 301-816-2633 for information on age/gender specific groups and registration.

Special Needs Northern Virginia BBYO: Chapter now forming for Jewish teens ages 13 – 22 (if in school) with mild to moderate disabilities who can communicate basic wants and needs and have appropriate self-care abilities. The teens participate in a variety of activities with their own group and other BBYO chapters. Contact sharilynne17@hotmail.com.

Students with Learning Disabilities: Envision Technology offers demos of Kurzweil 3000 software program for students with learning and reading difficulties. 301-654-3568.

Study of Language and Social Skills: The National Institute of Mental Health invites parents of children ages 12 months to 6 years, 11 months to call about a study related to children with autism. The study is not only recruiting children with autism, but also healthy children and those with social skills or language problems. For details please call 301-435-7962 or email NIMH-ASD@mail.nih.gov. National Institutes of Health, DHHS.

Trans-PARENTING: Offers parents an opportunity to shift their attention from the personal aspects of divorce or separation to the needs of their children. Class locations are within Prince William Co., Fairfax Co. and Springfield, VA. For more information and to register, call 703-219-2198.

Treatment and Learning Centers: Offers workshops for professionals working with children, toddler-elementary age. Rockville. 301-424-5200.

Vaccine Information and Action in Maryland (VIAM): Support and educational activities forming. 301-897-8962.

Volunteers Needed for Fairfax County Victim Assistance Network (VAN): Thought about making a difference in your community? Something you can do in your home? VAN will train caring individuals to volunteer on its sexual assault and domestic abuse crisis hotline. Bilingual and bicultural volunteers are welcome. For more information on training sessions, call 703-360-7273.

Volunteers Needed for JSSA’s Transitions and Hospice Programs: The Jewish Social Service Agency is seeking adult volunteers to help provide an enhanced quality of life to individuals with life-threatening or terminal illness and their families. Highly specialized training is offered. For more information about training and responsibilities, call Amy Kaufman Goott at 301-816-2650.

Weight Loss Study for Overweight Teens: The National Institute for Child Health and Human Development invites parents with overweight teens, ages 12-17, who can attend weekly meetings, to enroll them in a study of new weight-loss medication, already FDA-approved for adults. For details, call 1-800-411-1222.

Wombmyn Art Collective: A listserv for artists who are mothers and are balancing two creations: children and art. We are writers, painters, dancers, musicians, actresses, filmmakers, designers, photographers, etc. If you are interested in meeting, connecting, creating and growing with artist moms of all cultures, all over the world, visit http://groups.yahoo.com/group/wombmynart or e-mail mosaicaluna@yahoo.com.

You're Never Alone: It Takes a Village: Parent Support Group for Parents Raising Challenging Teens: A monthly support group for parents who are parenting teens with serious behavioral and emotional challenges. Meets the first Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Center for Adoption Support and Education, Burtonsville. $$. Free for families who have adopted through Montgomery County Health and Human Services. To register, call 301-476-8525.