Educational Workshops and Events on various topics to help parents and caregivers support their children’s development. Topics include:

• New Parent Orientation – An overview of the early start program and services available for children birth to age three.
• Positive Parenting for Challenging Behaviors – Easy to follow strategies on parenting approaches to improving relationships between parents/caregivers and their child.
• Toileting without Tears – Learn to identify when your child is ready to transition out of diapers and tips to make the process easier.
• Early Start Transition Workshop – Parents/Caregivers will learn the process of their child transitioning out of early interventions services and into other services and programs for children over the age of 3

All workshops are provided in English and Spanish. Check out our FRC Calendar for upcoming Workshops & Events

Socialization – The McClaney FRC hosts quarterly play dates for children in the Early Start program and their parents/caregivers. Playdates are a great way to see your child in action with play, sing-along-songs, movement activities and arts and crafts. Meet other parents in your area who are also on the early start journey supporting their child’s development!

• Get Down with Play & Learning! – The FRC hosts a monthly play group for children with Down syndrome and their parents/caregivers. The play group provides developmentally appropriate play-based activities while also providing developmental information and resources for families with a loved one diagnosed with Down syndrome.

Referral Services – Families are provided a warm connection to community-based organizations that serve children with special needs. Agencies include Early Head Start, Head Start, School Districts, Mental Health services and much more.

Advocacy Support – FRC Staff provide education and advocacy support with system navigation, including eligibility and accessing services from the regional center, insurance companies, Medi-Cal, school district and other city, county and state agencies. To see a list of generic resources click here.

Parent Support – Early Start Family Resource Centers are staffed with parents of children with special needs and professionals who are passionate about early childhood development and education. Talk with other parents who have gone through the journey to receive guidance and support as you navigate early start and various services for your loved one.

Parents can click here to see a list of commonly used words by professionals who work with individuals with special needs.