Early Intervention Director Liz Rose provided a training about the PLAY Project at the Logan County Board of Developmental Disabilities’ recent meeting.
This project is an evidence-based, parent-implemented, intensive early intervention program for young children with autism. Early intervention can make a profound difference in the life course of these children because their brains are developing at an incredible rate before the age of 5, Rose noted.
Children, including children with autism, learn best through play in the natural environment of the home. The secret is knowing how to engage the child in a playful way that promotes his or her development, the director said.
The Logan County Board of DD has two certified PLAY consultants, Rose and Lisa Daniels. They use the “seven circles” of PLAY as their guide to train and support parents to effectively engage their children.
Rose and Daniels provide this service within the homes of Logan County families. The goal is to empower parents by utilizing methods of parent support, coaching, and mentoring.
Research shows that this method positively impacts a core deficit of autism, which is social impairment. Results indicate significant improvements in caregiver and child interaction, social interaction, and social-emotional development.
Rose shared footage of a local family involved with the PLAY project and the progress this child has made within just five months of the program.
If you believe you may have a child, under the age of 3, with autism or another developmental disability and would like to have your child assessed for services, contact LCBDD Early Intervention at (937) 292-3065.
In other news, the board conducted its Annual Organizational meeting, electing its board officials and members for ad hoc committees.
The financial business was discussed by reviewing budgetary transactions and expenditures for the months of November and December 2022.
Krista Oldiges is settling into her new role as executive director by attending many community stakeholder meetings and making introductions with Logan County partners.
Oldiges reviewed state and federal updates and discussed the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities accreditation review that will be taking place later this year.
Oldiges and staff are currently preparing for a mock review to ensure records, files, and especially service provision in all areas of the agency are performing at an excellent standard.
SSA Director Jason Moyer provided updates on community involvement and Special Olympics. Currently, bowling season is underway and the Special Olympics team would like to go to Reno, Nevada, to be a part of the Unified Bowling tournament.
Cheerleading and basketball seasons are also in full swing. There will be state tournaments in March for both of these sports.
Community First Facilitator Kelli Bader is working with advocacy groups to create a new group called “The Purple Squirrels.” This group has a goal of working with businesses in the community to find ways to make a difference by making sure entrances, bathrooms, tables etc., are handicap accessible.
This group was created to honor a fellow advocacy leader who recently passed away. She was passionate about self-advocacy. Her favorite color was purple and her favorite animal was the squirrel, Bader noted.
If you are interested in helping by volunteering with Special Olympics, an advocacy group, or monetarily, contact Bader at (937) 292-3086.
Meetings for the Logan County Board of DD are typically conducted the first Thursday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at the board office, 1973 W. State Route 47, Bellefontaine. The next meeting is March 2.