Booze and Babies = 100% Preventable Disability

If you've ever worked with a child who has Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS), you will soon feel as I do and believe that drinking alcohol during pregnancy should be avoided completely, not just socially unacceptable. Fetal Alcoholic Spectrum Disorder is the one disability that is completely avoidable. No child should have to suffer from it. The experts know that even just a few alcoholic beverages during a special occasion can lead to permanent damage for the unborn child. It is the reason that doctors advise women against drinking during pregnancy. Unfortunately, a number of women don't realize they're pregnant in those early stages.

Some Facts about FASD

• FASD is caused when consumption of alcohol occurs during pregnancy which exposes the fetus to alcohol. FASD refers to the range of effects caused from alcohol consumption during pregnancy.
• FASD is an umbrella term that refers to a spectrum of disorders stemming from alcohol consumption during pregnancy.
• Individuals will suffer from a range of disabilities that will include behavioral problems, emotional issues, weak attention spans and symptoms similar to ADD minimal anger management, they will often be very impulsive and seem to act without thinking.
• Facial differences are also noted in children with FASD (smaller eye slits, a flatter midface, shortened noses, thinner upper lips, flatter or lower nose bridges and chins that are often slight more pointed)
• The first diagnosis of FAS was in 1968.
• Research indicates that a large percentage of homeless people, and at least 25% of juvenile and adult offenders suffer from undiagnosed FASD.(More research about FAS)
• FASD cannot be cured, individuals affected with FASD will live with it their entire lives.
• FASD is completely preventable when mothers don't drink during pregnancy.
• There is NO safe level of drinking or safe time to drink alcohol during pregnancy.

One of the best free resources I've seen for teachers and caregivers working with children who have FASD comes from the Alberta Government, here where there are free PDF resources to help students of all ages.

FASD is an extremely complex disability, many children with it aren't diagnosed or often mis-diagnosed. Usually, individuals with FASD will require help and support their entire lives. It is recognized as one of the leading causes of developmental disabilities. Families will require support and it is important to look for support groups as there is quite a stigma associated with it, many mothers will be harshly judged. Alcoholics Anonymous is another good support group for these mothers.

Although the child affected with FASD will have many problems, they have a great capacity to love and be loved, they need to contribute the same as anyone else. The challenge for educators is to help these children reach their full potential and find their place to be productive in the world.