Holiday Social Story The holidays can be filled with excitement, but for individuals with disabilities, certain situations—like receiving a gift they didn’t expect or don’t love—can bring big emotions. Puzzle Pieces created a special social story (linked in headline) to help families navigate this experience with understanding and grace. Their “Getting a Present I Don’t Really Like” social story is designed to support individuals in managing feelings of disappointment while reinforcing kindness and gratitude. It’s a simple, relatable resource that empowers families to prepare for these moments and create a positive holiday experience for everyone. OADSP TRAINING SERIES Join us on 9 a.m. - noon Jan. 22 for the first of our monthly OADSP training session; Module #118: The Profession of Direct Support in Disability Services. This module focuses on the role of the DSP and their ability to demonstrate basic work readiness skills. The purpose and importance of the 12 competency areas will be examined, as will the importance or Ethical Practice Skills. Three (3) hours of CEUs for IA, EI, SSA, Adult Services, and Superintendent have been requested. The training meets the requirements of OAC 5123-2-08 Appendix C Annual and OAC 5123-2-09 Appendix A Annual under Components of Quality Care. To register, please e-mail drussell@lucasdd.org. Is your vehicle #WinterReady? Winter has arrived! It's essential to ensure your car is equipped to handle icy roads and frigid temperatures. Ready.gov provides a plethora of winter safety tips including a quick guide to staying safe while driving this winter. From ensuring proper winter maintenance to preparing an Emergency Car Kit, this site will help prepare you for the risks and rigors of winter driving. For more details, visit Ready.gov and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Winter Weather Safety. Winter Communication Board Available The Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities created this new communication board filled with everything winter! Communication boards help people communicate with others by using symbols, pictures, or photos. They can be used by people to express their needs, preferences, and decisions. 988 and Mental Health Resources The holiday season can be mixed with joyful and stressful feelings (plans, socializing, expectations, fun, and exhaustion). It can be a lot for your nervous system to manage! DODD created a playlist titled “12 Days of Holiday Stress-less Strategies” to help bring more ease into your life. If you need professional mental health support, call 988. 988 is a quick and easy number to remember for mental health support in Ohio. You can call or text the number or message online at 988lifeline.org. When you call 988, you’ll speak with trained experts ready to help with mental health challenges. Additionally, DODD created a mental health communication board to give Ohioans a visual tool to communicate their needs to those around them. | 
