RCSN offers a selection of workshops for both families and professionals of children with special needs in three categories:
Educating Your Child with a Disability, Navigating the Years from 0-26, and Parenting Solutions.
Workshops can be customized to meet your needs, and are available in Spanish upon request. RCSN also offers a limited number of free parent workshops.
Download the RCSN Workshop Menu
For the current schedule and to register for RCSN's workshops, click here.
To request a workshop for your group, contact us here.
Educating Your Child with a Disability
Special Education Basics
This quick but thorough journey through the NYC special education process will help you chart the best course for you and your child.
Your Top 5 Rights in Special Education
You made it through the Individual Education Program (IEP) process. Now what? If you're wondering what's next, the first step is to learn your rights and responsibilities-your top 5 rights under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
The IEP (Individualized Education Program)
All school districts in New York State began using new IEP forms last year, and that means changes to the way your child's IEP is developed. Whether you are experienced in the special education process or brand new to it, this workshop gives you the tools to make sure your child's IEP is what it should be.
What Special Ed Reform Means for You and Your Child
The citywide implementation of special education reform has begun, and parent involvement is more crucial than ever before. Get the facts and make your plan! Extra Q&A time is built in to this workshop.
Can Assistive Technology Help Your Child?
Does your child have difficulty connecting with the environment? Learn how assistive technology can help support your child's education-and find out if your child is eligible for assistive technology services and/ or a free device.
Get Organized!
You are the keeper of your child's education history. Learn the RCSN Binder System, and be ready for every meeting. Your binder will become more useful over time!
Resolve Conflicts Through Mediation
Learn how special education mediation can help you resolve disagreements with your child's school, whether mediation is right for you, and how to navigate the process.
Navigating the Years from 0-26
The Earlier the Better (4 and Under)
For parents and caregivers of babies, toddlers, and preschoolers with special needs and their families. Discover how Early Intervention and preschool special education services can help you and your child get on track.
Turning 5
Navigate the important transition to Kindergarten for your child with special needs.
The NYC High School Application Process
Applying for high school in the city is a critically important process for you and your student. Know the what, when, how, and why in advance so you can find the right high school.
The High School Years
Make the most of this critical time, and help your student prepare to graduate college - or career-ready.
Life After High School: College & Career
Explore educational options, including colleges and career preparation programs, how to get ready during the high school years, and how to find college services.
Life After High School: Supported Learning, Earning & Living
Explore customized/supported work, residential options, college programs, access to community services, funding and future planning.
Transition for Families
This general overview on transition to adulthood will help you match your child's abilities and aspirations with real options in the transition to adult life.
Prepare for Change
For parents of children children with developmental disabilities. This workshop set addresses the basic information and skills parents will need as the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) system undergoes fundamental reform. Three separate workshops are offered: one for families of children under 5, one for school-aged children, and one for students 14 and over with a focus on transition to adulthood.
Parenting Solutions
Strategies for Challenging Behaviors
Learn to recognize the roots and triggers of challenging behaviors. Practice strategies to encourage and sustain positive behavior both in school and at home.
Your Child's Best Champion
Gain the skills and confidence you need to speak, listen, and advocate on behalf of your child.
Facebook to Texting: Parent Your Child’s Digital Life
Social media can lead to increased inclusion and independence for your child with special needs. Learn how to monitor your child’s activity on Facebook, email, Twitter, and the internet, and help your child prepare for safety and independence in the digital world. The workshop includes resources for children requiring Universal Design supports, apps, and software.
Put an End to Bullying
Helpful strategies, whether you are concerned that your child is being bullied or is bullying others.
Homework without tears
Learn practical strategies to make homework a regular part of your child's routine and expectations.
Relaxtion + Bonding = Powerful Parent
Master practical techniques to calm yourself and your child with special needs, and grow closer to them at the same time.
Toilet Training Made Easy
If your're frustrated because your child is not responding to traditional toilet training techniques, come learn some simple and practical strategies that work!
Help! Family Support Services
Access programs and services that can help you reduce the stresses of caring for your child with special needs.
Yoga = Parent Empowerment
Yoga can help you help your child focus, listen and follow directions. This workshop will give you simple strategies to build the yoga discipline into your life.
