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FASD Family Support Services
What is FASD?
Fetal Alcohol
Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a relatively new umbrella term to
describe organic brain disorders, which are characterized by
central nervous system involvement, growth retardation and
distinctive facial features, which develop in individuals whose
mothers, consume alcohol during pregnancy.
FASD is often
called the “hidden” or “invisible” disability as physical
characteristics may go unrecognized. Many alcohol-affected
children are endearing and affectionate, and these qualities can
mask the seriousness of this lifelong neurological disability.
FASD is 100%
preventable; it is not genetic or inherited. FASD is more likely
to occur following continuous or heavy intake of alcohol during
pregnancy. FASD prevention is not just a women’s issue, pregnant
women need support from their partners, extended family members
and community in order to abstain from alcohol. FASD is
irreversible.
Characteristics of FASD affected individuals can include:
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Language/speech development
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Reading/writing development
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Memory deficits
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Anger and aggression
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Problems managing time
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Gross motor control problems
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Difficulty with social skills
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Understanding consequences
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Sleep disturbances
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Withdrawal and isolation
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Short attention span
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Drug or alcohol abuse
Support Services
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FASD
education and awareness for families and communities
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Assistance /Advocacy accessing school based service
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Information on community resources
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Assistance in interpreting diagnostic reports concerning
your child’s neurological diagnosis
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Transitional supports
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Non-judgmental person to talk to and offer support
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Birth mom, foster parent and adoptive parent support
For more info contact
FASD Key Worker
Lee Smith
(250) 544-1400
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