Child Services
Early Intervention - Ages Birth to 3
The Developmental Disabilities (DD) Early Intervention Program is for children age birth to 3 who show evidence of a developmental delay. Emphasis is placed on working closely with the family, acting as a resource and consultant for the parents.
Teachers
An Early Intervention Specialist supports each child and family enrolled in the program. This is a professional position requiring a minimum of a bachelor's degree in a related early childhood field and an additional 20 semester hours of training in child development, disabilities, family dynamics and assessments.
Parents are regarded as the primary teacher for their children. In addition to the Early Intervention Specialist, other professionals who may provide services are:
The Developmental Disabilities (DD) Early Intervention Program is for children age birth to 3 who show evidence of a developmental delay. Emphasis is placed on working closely with the family, acting as a resource and consultant for the parents.
Teachers
An Early Intervention Specialist supports each child and family enrolled in the program. This is a professional position requiring a minimum of a bachelor's degree in a related early childhood field and an additional 20 semester hours of training in child development, disabilities, family dynamics and assessments.
Parents are regarded as the primary teacher for their children. In addition to the Early Intervention Specialist, other professionals who may provide services are:
- Speech Language Therapist
- Occupational Therapist
- Physical Therapist
- Nursing
- Others as needed or requested
Parents and staff together decide how the baby or toddler is developing, what may be needed to help and put together a plan of service called the Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP).
The Early Intervention program works in collaboration with other county agencies such as Help Me Grow and Project Child to provide comprehensive services for families.
Early Intervention is a program provided by Logan County DD, which is publicly funded through local tax levies, state and federal revenue sources.
The Early Intervention program works in collaboration with other county agencies such as Help Me Grow and Project Child to provide comprehensive services for families.
Early Intervention is a program provided by Logan County DD, which is publicly funded through local tax levies, state and federal revenue sources.
Preschool Program: Ages 3-5
The Discovery Center for Children is an integrated preschool program for children, ages 3-5. Public Law 99-457, a federal law, requires that school districts provide special education services for children 3-5 who are experiencing significant delays in their development.
The Logan County Board of DD provides and fully funds this program on behalf of the Indian Lake, Riverside, Benjamin Logan, and Bellefontaine City school districts. Special education services provided by the Discovery Center Program include specialized instruction, speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, adaptive physical education, music therapy, and transportation. Each class offers an integrated setting with a certified teacher and classroom assistant.
As the name suggests, our mission is to encourage the child’s natural desire to explore, discover, and learn from the world around them. The staff is committed to providing a high quality program that is nurturing, positive, and challenging. Developing children’s self esteem, respect for others in cooperative settings, and confidence in their abilities to solve problems are priorities in the curriculum and in practice.
Classes are held Monday - Thursday with a morning session at 9 a.m.- 12 p.m. and an afternoon session at 12:45-3:45 p.m. Fridays are reserved for home visitation and child assessments.
The Joy of “Discovery”
Children of the community, not in need of special education services, may also attend this enriched preschool program by paying tuition. Children may be enrolled for 2 days a week or 4 days a week. Call the Discovery Center at 937-592-2009 for tuition rates. It is the goal of the staff to foster independence and creativity in all areas of learning so that all young students may know the true joy of discovery!
Services to School Age Children
Logan County Board of DD focuses on life span services for individuals with developmental disabilities. We recognize that the needs of individuals vary depending on their age. We realize the needs for school age children are unique. We are committed to providing services to school age children and their families to the best of our ability
Families Touched by Autism
Families Touched by Autism was created to provide a place of friendship and support for families dealing with autism. Meetings are held on the first Thursday night of each month at the Discovery Center. For information or questions, contact John or Angelia Parsons (Parent Representatives) by telephone at 937-592-5438.
Teens In Transition
Teens in Transition or TNT, is a program that focuses on vocational exploration and independent living skills. It could be an important step in planning for life after school. This program serves youth 15 to graduation during the summer break from school.
Teen Recreation Group
Monthly community outings are planned for the 15 to graduation. This is an active group that may go bowling, out to eat or to a local sporting event. This gives students the opportunity to socialize with their friends outside of a school setting and to develop new friendships.
Sibshops
Sibshops is a program for 6-13 year-old brothers and sisters of children who have special needs. Sibshops provides an opportunity to meet other siblings in a relaxed, recreational setting and provides opportunities to discuss common joys and concerns with other siblings of children with special needs. The program meets 1 Saturday per month.
Supported Education Program
The Supported Education Program offers follow-up to students when they move on to kindergarten. Contact is made with the kindergarten teachers to ensure the child is making a smooth transition. Should concerns arise, the parents are encouraged to contact their child's elementary teacher.
Another excellent program provided by the Logan County Board of Developmental Disabilities.