DEPARTMENT of FAMILY SERVICES

February 2026

Free Parenting Education Programs – Enroll in Winter Classes

The Parenting Education Programs is taking registrations for virtual and in-person classes for the winter. Our next class for parents of 5–11-year-olds begins Feb. 12 at 5:30 p.m. in Springfield. County staff can submit a family enrollment form for referrals. Others can email us to learn more or visit the website for the winter class schedule.

Dads, sign up for our upcoming classes to improve parenting skills and build better relationships! Fairfax County residents or dads with children living in Fairfax are welcome. Language interpretation services are available. The next sessions begin on Tuesday, Feb. 10 and Wednesday, Mar 11. Learn more.

Clases gratuitas de crianza para madres y padres en Español

Criar a los hijos no siempre es fácil, pero usted no tiene que hacerlo solo(a). Este invierno, el Programa de Educación para Madres y Padres del Departamento de Servicios para la Familia del Condado de Fairfax ofrece clases gratuitas en español y en inglés para apoyar a familias con niñas, niños y adolescentes desde el nacimiento hasta los 18 años. Los grupos de papás apoyan el crecimiento de los padres en la crianza de los hijos y la superación personal. Para más información, visite Programas de educación para padres.

The next free Virtual Parent Café will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 10, 6:30 to 8 p.m. to discuss “Parenting in the Hispanic Culture (La crianza de los hijos en la cultura hispana)." Join this open discussion in Spanish about the cross-cultural challenges many parents face when raising their children in a diverse environment. Fairfax County parents or guardians with children ages 0-18 years old can register online. 

Parenting Tips and Resources

Parenting can be fun. Don't let the stress of life steal your joy. Take time to celebrate the little moments with your children and model how to be joyful.

Fairfax County Public Library Reading Pick of the Month "Ready for spaghetti: funny poems for funny kids" by Michael Rosen. This fun and fizzy introduction to poetry celebrates the day-to-day routines of early childhood with catchy infectious rhymes! Put joy and silliness back in ordinary moments with your toddler.

Join Us: Volunteer with DFS

We need dedicated volunteer classroom facilitators and mentors. Apply today with Body Safety to help empower children and prevent or interrupt abuse. Volunteer with the Parenting Education and BeFriend-a-Child programs to help encourage children and build stronger families.

Connect with us online, by email, or call 703-324-7720.

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