Parent Learning Sessions
Parent Learning Workshops
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Section 504: What is it & how does it help my child?
Tuesday, January 13, 2026 1pm - 3pm
What is Section 504? Who does it protect? What does a plan include? What rights do parents or guardians have under Section 504? How does my child get a plan or what can I expect if they have one? We are so glad you asked. Join us to explore these very topics and provide answers to these very questions. Let’s explore Section 504 together.
AT for All: The Role of Assistive Technology in Special Education
Wednesday, January 14, 2026 1pm - 3pm
This session will delve into the transformative power of assistive technology (AT) in special education. We’ll explore examples of the use of AT tools, services, and considerations regarding the evaluation and IEP process for students with different learning needs. Participants will learn about the different AT requirements under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Promoting Mental Wellness and Resiliency
Thursday, January 15, 2026 1pm - 3pm
Join us for a session that will empower you with practical strategies to promote mental wellness and build resiliency in your child. Participants will learn about how our brains develop self-regulation and emotional control. We will explore ways to support our children during moments of strong emotions, so they develop coping skills, flexibility, and inner strength.
Harmonious Bonds: Engaging with Your Child Through Music and Fingerplays
Tuesday, January 20, 2026 9am - 11am
Session #112813 (In-person only)
Join us for an interactive and enriching workshop tailored to parents seeking to deepen their connection with their children through the universal language of music and the playful art of finger plays. Led by experienced early childhood educators, this sessionoffers parents a unique opportunity to learn practical techniques and strategies to engage, entertain and bond with their little ones in a fun and meaningful way.
Let’s Play & Learn Together! Encouraging Positive Behavior Supports for ALL Young Children
Wednesday, January 21, 2026 9am - 11am
Join us for an engaging session where families with 3- to 5-year-olds will actively explore how to use the power of play to nurture connection, social-emotional growth, and early academic skills at home. You’ll leave with hands-on activities to implement immediately.
Understanding TELPAS for Your Emergent Bilingual Child
Thursday, January 22, 2026 5pm - 7pm
Does your child participate in an ESL or a Bilingual program at school? If so, join us for a closer look at the TELPAS! This session will not only provide a deeper understanding of the state’s annual English proficiency assessment, the TELPAS, it will also help you prepare and support your child for the assessment. This session will focus on strategies and resources in supporting your child in the 4 language domains of listening, speaking, reading, and writing, which are the critical components of the Texas English Language Proficiency Assessment System (TELPAS).
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What Every Family Should Know About Autism
Wednesday, February 11, 2026 9am - 11am
This training is an overview of Early Identification and Supporting Families of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and/or families with children who exhibit Developmental Delays indicating potential diagnoses. Participants who successfully complete this course will:
• Be able to identify signs and characteristics of children with ASD.
• Gain knowledge of recommended resources and programs for caregiver and individual support to increase quality of life.
Self Determination and Impact of the Disability
Thursday, February 12, 2026 9am - 11am
In this session, we will explore strategies for navigating disability awareness, equipping participants with the knowledge and tools to embrace their abilities while navigating challenges. Through engaging discussions and practical insights, attendees will gain valuable perspectives on understanding self-determination to overcome barriers, advocate for themselves, and thrive in various aspects of life. Whether you are navigating your own journey or supporting someone else, this session offers invaluable guidance and empowerment for fostering resilience and achieving personal growth.
Following the Daily Routine at Home
Wednesday, February 18, 2026 9am - 11am
Join us in exploring research-based strategies that support children in participating and moving through activities in the home such as cleaning up toys, taking a bath, eating meals, running errands, and even taking a nap. Come learn how offering choices and adding playful elements can help create a smoother, more peaceful rhythm for your family.
You, Your Child(ren), and Your Military & Veteran Identity
Tuesday, February 24, 2026 5pm - 7pm
In this workshop, we’ll explore the concept of family as a “system”—a dynamic and interconnected unit where each member plays a vital role. Through engaging discussions, you’ll discover how each person’s individuality contributes to the smooth functioning of the family as a whole. By reflecting on personal identity, experiences, and values, we’ll take a closer look at how these elements shape your family’s unique identity. This course covers Sessions 1 and 2 of the Strong Families Strong Forces program. For more information and sign-up, visit https://www.uwstx.org/ strong-families-strong-forces/.
Triple P Seminar 2: Raising Confident, Competent Children
Thursday, February 26, 2026 9am - 10:30am
Parents are introduced to six core building blocks for children to become confident and successful at school and beyond. These competencies are:
• Showing respect to others.
• Being considerate.
• Having good communication and social skills.
• Having healthy self-esteem.
• Being a good problem solver.
• Becoming independent.
This seminar is for parents of children up to age 12. It is presented by community partner SA Metropolitan Health District.
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Your Family’s Military Transition Experience
Tuesday, March 3, 2026 5pm - 7pm
Explore how children, like parents, form unique perceptions and emotions from shared life events. Learn how to create a safe space for your child to express their thoughts and experiences, fostering understanding and support within the family. Together, you’ll reflect on shared experiences, gain insight into different perspectives, and strengthen communication to navigate past, present, and future family challenges. This course covers Sessions 3 and 4 of the Strong Families Strong Forces program. For more information and sign-up, visit https://www.uwsatx.org/ strong-families-strong-forces/.
Getting a head start on Head Start
Thursday, March 5, 2026 9am - 11am
Join this session to become better equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to give you a head start on Head Start and your child a head start on success! Learn about the next steps in the process and receive an overview of the different services offered in this program. Discover practical tips for fostering a supportive learning environment at home and engaging with your child’s educators effectively. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain the knowledge and confidence needed to make the most out of the Head Start program for your family.
Keeping Up with Your Family and Yourself
Tuesday, March 24, 2026 5pm - 7pm
Life’s challenges can disrupt family routines and connections, but this workshop will help you identify growth opportunities and new milestones in your child’s development. Explore strategies to reconnect, strengthen your relationship, and create positive family memories. Learn how to care for yourself, your partner, and your children, and collaborate on a plan to reinforce your family’s foundation. This course covers Sessions 5 and 6 of the Strong Families Strong Forces program. For more information and sign-up, visit https://www.uwsatx.org/ strong-families-strong-forces/.
Understanding the Impact of Executive Functioning Skills in Children & Teens
Wednesday, March 25, 2026 9am - 11am
Executive Functioning Skills greatly impact children’s achievement and are often an associated feature of developmental or learning disabilities, or caused by a mismatch between a child’s neuro-developmental stage and the demands of their environment. This training will focus on ways in which parents, teachers, and students can understand what executive function skills are and learn to use appropriate strategies to help improve academic performance.
Triple P Seminar 3: Raising Resilient Kids
Thursday, March 26, 2026 9am - 10:30am
Parents are introduced to six core building blocks for children to manage their feelings and become resilient in dealing with life stress. These competencies are:
• Recognizing and accepting feelings.
• Expressing feelings appropriately.
• Building a positive outlook.
• Developing coping skills.
• Dealing with negative feelings.
• Dealing with stressful life events.
This seminar is for parents of children up to age 12. It is presented by community partner SA Metropolitan Health District.
Emergent Bilingual Students in Gifted Services
Tuesday, March 31, 2026 5pm - 7pm
This workshop is designed to help families understand how students who are learning English can also be identified for and thrive in gifted programs. We’ll discuss how giftedness can present itself and ways parents can support their child’s academic and language development at home. The presenter will discuss common myths and barriers and share strategies to support both language growth and advanced learning.
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The Bully vs. The Bullied
Thursday, April 2, 2026 9am - 11am
Join us for an essential discussion about bullying in today’s world, both in-person and online. This comprehensive session examines bullying from multiple angles—exploring why children bully, the impact on those being bullied, and the often-overlooked role of bystanders. Learn to recognize early warning signs, understand the difference between conflict and bullying, and discover effective strategies to support your child whether they’re being bullied or displaying bullying behaviors. This session aims to empower parents with knowledge and practical tools to help create safer, more supportive environments for all children.
Parenting & Co-Parenting: Looking Back, Moving Forward
Tuesday, April 7, 2026 5pm - 7pm
Parenting doesn’t come with a “one-size-fits-all” solution. In this workshop, reflect on your own childhood experiences and explore various parenting strategies. Collaborate with your partner to create a co-parenting plan that aligns with your shared vision for your family’s future. As the program concludes, we’ll celebrate progress, cherish the journey, and recognize the strength of your family bond. This course covers Sessions 7 and 8 of the Strong Families Strong Forces program. For more information and sign-up, visit https://www.uwsatx.org/ strong-families-strong-forces/.
Triple P Seminar 1: Raising Responsible Teenagers
Thursday, April 9, 2026 5pm - 6:30pm
Practitioners introduce parents to the six key elements of teenagers becoming responsible and specific ideas about how to teach and encourage each of the following skills:
• Taking part in family decision-making.
• Being respectful and considerate.
• Getting involved in family activities.
• Developing a healthy lifestyle.
• Being reliable.
• Being assertive.
This seminar is for parents of pre-teens and teenagers, ages 11-17. It is presented by community partner SA Metropolitan Health District.
Understanding Your Child’s Learning Style
Tuesday, April 14, 2026 9am - 11am
Parents are a child’s most important teacher, and the home can be the best learning environment. This session will help you transform your parenting through understanding your child’s learning style and provide strategies and tools to support him/her academically that match his/her learning style. Learning style inventories and other resources will be shared.
Play & Learn: Child Growth and Development
Wednesday, April 15, 2026 9am - 11am
Session #112687 (In-person only)
Join us for a Play & Learn group, a program for parents and their children birth age to 5 years. In this session, parents will learn how your child grows and develops during these early, critical years—from first steps and first words to emotional and social milestones. Presented in partnership with KLRN’s Early Childhood Program, presenters will share practical strategies to support your child’s learning, behavior, and development at home. Let’s work together to build a strong foundation for your child’s future!
Bringing Visuals Home: Supporting Communication Beyond the Classroom
Thursday, April 16, 2026 9am - 11am
Communication is key—and for children who are still developing language skills, visual supports can make a big difference. Children with disabilities often rely on visuals to better understand and interact with the world around them—not just at school, but at home as well. In this session, we’ll explore practical ways to incorporate visual supports into daily routines at home, including tools like choice boards, behavior charts, and more to strengthen both receptive and expressive communication skills.
Play & Learn: Ages and Stages
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 9am - 11am
Session #112688 (In-person only)
Join us for a hands-on workshop on the ASQ-3 (Ages & Stages Questionnaires®)—a trusted tool for tracking your child’s growth in key developmental areas from birth to age 5. Presented in partnership with KLRN’s Early Childhood Program, this session will guide you through completing the questionnaire, interpreting results, and using the insights to support your child’s learning and development at home. Gain confidence in understanding your child’s milestones and take an active role in their early development journey!
Play & Learn: Early Brain Development
Wednesday, April 29, 2026 9am - 11am
Session #112689 (In-person only)
Did you know that a child’s brain develops more in the first five years than at any other time in life? Join us for a fun and informative workshop on Early Brain Development, presented in partnership with KLRN’s Early Childhood Program. Learn how everyday activities—like talking, playing, and reading—can boost brain growth and set the stage for lifelong learning. Discover easy, powerful ways to support your child’s development—and leave with tips, tools, and resources you can use right away!
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Nurturing Your Child’s Health from the Start
Tuesday, May 5, 2026 9am - 11am
Designed exclusively for parents, this session is dedicated to discovering the connections between physical health, oral care, and nutrition, as pivotal elements for ensuring your child’s readiness for school. The focus is to equip parents with the essential knowledge and practical tools necessary to lay the groundwork for your child’s lifelong well-being, all within the framework of the Head Start Approach. Together we will embark on a journey to understand your child’s growth, unlock the power of nutrition, master the art of oral care, overcome common obstacles, and integrate newfound knowledge into your daily routines. Join us in laying the foundation for a lifetime of health supporting your child’s overall development and success.
Play & Learn: Identifying and Expressing Feelings
Wednesday, May 6, 2026 9am - 11am
Session #112690 (In-person only)
Emotions can be big—even for little ones! Join us for an engaging and practical workshop on helping young children recognize, understand, and express their feelings in healthy ways. Presented in partnership with KLRN’s Early Childhood Program, this session will offer tips, tools, and fun activities you can use at home to support your child’s emotional development. Help your child build the emotional skills they need to thrive— one feeling at a time!
Triple P Seminar 2: Raising Competent Teenagers
Thursday, May 7, 2026 5pm - 6:30pm
Practitioners introduce parents to six aspects of teenagers becoming confident and successful in school and the community. Parents are given specific ideas to teach and encourage the following:
• Developing self-discipline.
• Establishing good routines.
• Getting involved in school activities.
• Being a good problem solver.
• Following school rules.
• Having supportive friends.
This seminar is for parents of pre-teens and teenagers, ages 11-17. It is presented by community partner SA Metropolitan Health District.
Play & Learn: STEM Focused Activities
Wednesday, May 13, 2026 9am - 11am
Session #112691 (In-person only)
Discover how Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) can come alive through simple, fun activities at home! Join us for a handson parent workshop presented in partnership with KLRN’s Early Childhood Program, where you’ll explore creative ways to spark curiosity and learning in young children through everyday play. No special materials or experience needed—just a love of learning and a willingness to explore. Empower your child’s imagination and critical thinking from the very start!
Play & Learn: Healthy Kids and Nutrition
Wednesday, May 20, 2026 9am - 11am
Session #112692 (In-person only)
Good nutrition starts at home! Join us for an engaging and informative parent workshop as part of KLRN’s Nutritional Series, presented in partnership with their Early Childhood Program. Learn how to make healthy eating fun and achievable for your family with simple, budget-friendly tips, child-friendly recipes, and ideas for involving little ones in mealtime routines. Support your child’s health and development—one healthy bite at a time!
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Dangerous Teen Trends
Tuesday, June 2, 2026 9am - 11am
In today’s world, parents of adolescents must be informed about dangerous teen trends that can significantly impact their well being. The session will aim to provide parents with insights into prevalent risks, including vaping, fentanyl abuse, human trafficking, social media pitfalls, as well as eating and sleeping habits. By understanding these trends and their implications, parents can better equip themselves to support and safeguard the adolescents in their lives.
Play & Learn: Positive Guidance and Techniques
Wednesday June 3, 2026 9am - 11am
Session #112693 (In-person only)
Parenting can be challenging, but positive guidance can make all the difference! Join us for an insightful workshop on Positive Guidance and Techniques, presented in partnership with KLRN’s Early Childhood Program. This session will provide you with practical strategies to foster respectful communication, manage challenging behaviors, and encourage your child’s emotional and social growth—all with a positive, supportive approach. Build a strong, positive relationship with your child and set them up for success with these helpful techniques!
Triple P Seminar 3: Getting Teenagers Connected
Thursday, June 4, 2026 5pm - 6:30pm
Practitioners introduce parents to different aspects of teaching their teenagers to develop supportive friendships and become engaged in appropriate social and recreational groups and activities in the wider community. Parents are given specific ideas about teaching their teenagers the following skills:
• Being confident.
• Being socially skilled.
• Planning ahead.
• Meeting commitments.
• Keeping in contact.
• Taking care of others.
This session will be delivered by community partner SA Metropolitan Health District.
Play & Learn: Getting Ready for Kinder
Tuesday, June 9, 2026 9am - 11am
Session #112694 (In-person only)
Is your child ready for the exciting adventure of kindergarten? Join us for an informative and interactive workshop on Getting Ready for Kindergarten, presented in partnership with KLRN’s Early Childhood Program. This session will help you understand key developmental milestones, school-readiness skills, and strategies to ease the transition into kindergarten— both academically and emotionally. Let’s work together to make the first day of kindergarten a smooth and confident start for your child!
Promoting Communication and Social Development for Children With Autism
Wednesday, June 10, 2026 9am - 11am
Virtual session #113090 (Session is delivered in Spanish.)
Join us for this parenting workshop focused on practical strategies to support communication and social development in children with autism at home. We will explore effective tools to foster positive interactions, strengthen social skills, and create a home environment that promotes connection and growth. This workshop is an excellent opportunity to learn, share experiences, and feel supported along the way.
Connecting Head Start Safety Standards to the Home
Thursday, June 11, 2026 9am - 11am
Safety is a critical priority every day in the classroom and throughout the campus location where your children attend school! Join Head Start Safety Facilitators as they share safety guidelines while making connections to these safety standards and your home. Participants will learn safety tips and walk away with practical tools to implement at home Let’s all do our part in KEEPING IT SAFE!
Upcoming Opportunities Provided by the Statewide PFE Initiative hosted by ESC Region 16:
Parent Learning Series – Available In Spanish!
Click the image below for additional information.
Engaging Texas Families Podcast
Description: Introducing a new podcast from the Parent and Family Engagement Statewide Initiative! Each episode, we’ll help you connect, grow, and empower your family with practical tips and insightful conversations. We’ll explore the tools, strategies, and resources you need to be an engaged and confident partner in your child’s success.
Featuring Kimberly Seagler – In our newest episode of Engaging Texas Families, Family Service Specialist Kimberly Seagler shares her wisdom, knowledge, and heart on the art of connecting with families and even complete strangers. She explores the profound value these encounters bring to our children, our families, and the world. Tune in to hear her insights on building meaningful relationships and fostering a stronger community.
Episode 1 – Meet the Team: Our Goals, Our Passion, Our Story by Engaging Texas Families. Get a behind-the-scenes look at our mission with Program Coordinator, Shannon Lang, as she shares our goals, discusses some exciting projects, and offers a glimpse into her upbringing in a small Texas town. It's the perfect way to get to know us and what we're all about!