(New Philadelphia, Ohio) – Summer slide…COVID slide…like last year, the upcoming school year will not be without its challenges.

Including You is brought to you by the Tuscarawas County Board of Developmental Disabilities.

Many parents and caregivers have expressed concern over the last several months that special needs children are being left behind. With restrictions in-home aid visits and regular therapy sessions to regression due to limited social interactions and face-to-face opportunities, the concern is valid.

But, local parents can rest assured that agencies and organizations hear you and many are working to step in and fill those perceived gaps. For example, the Tuscarawas County Board of Developmental Disabilities has new training that’s been made available through the agency’s Behavior Support Specialist, Benjamin Kolbrich. “This training is for anyone supporting youth with developmental disabilities and behavior needs,” explained Kerri Silverthorn, with TuscBDD.

This series of training videos is completely free and immediately accessible via the TuscBDD website.

Another way to help families during this stress full time is through family mentorship and TuscBDD has a program for that. “It is informal and people can call or email the mentors that have gone through similar situations,” added Silverthorn.

Additionally, TuscBDD is also encouraging families to learn more about Starlight Schooland the plans for the upcoming school year.