Fetal Alcohol Spectrum

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum addresses prevention, diagnosis, and lifelong supports for neurodevelopmental impacts of prenatal alcohol exposure. This page turns consensus into practice: non-judgmental screening in prenatal care; diagnosis using growth, facial, and CNS criteria; and strengths-based plans for attention, learning, and behavior. If you’re comparing a FASD conference, you’ll find coordinated pathways that include developmental pediatrics, psychology, education services, and caregiver coaching. We emphasize stigma-free communication and practical supports that improve daily functioning at home and school.

Implementation is family-centred. We outline sensory and routine adaptations, behavior plans that teach skills rather than punish, and sleep/circadian strategies that stabilize arousal. Caregivers get respite, stress-management coaching, and navigation help for benefits/education rights. Adolescents receive transition planning; adults get workplace accommodations and mental-health care. Prevention includes alcohol screening with brief interventions and safe-messaging campaigns. For youth mental-health integration and school collaboration, see School Mental Health.

Identification, Supports, and Systems

Screening and diagnosis

  • Normalize prenatal alcohol screening with empathy and privacy.
  • Use validated criteria and multidisciplinary assessments.

Home and school plans

  • Visual schedules, breaks, and step-wise instructions.
  • Reinforce learning with repetition and concrete cues.

Sleep and arousal

  • Bedtime routines, light timing, and calming strategies.
  • Avoid sedatives; coach non-pharmacologic approaches first.

Caregiver partnership

  • Teach stress-tolerant responses and problem-solving.
  • Connect to respite, benefits, and peer support.

Programs, Equity, and Transitions

Education rights
IEPs/504s with executive-function supports.

Health integration
Coordinate pediatrics, psychiatry, OT, and speech.

Adolescent transitions
Plan for driving, relationships, and substance-risk education.

Adult accommodations
Job coaching, routines, and sensory-aware workplaces.

Equity and language
Culturally sensitive materials and interpreter access.

Prevention messaging
Non-shaming campaigns across prenatal care settings.

Measurement
Track school participation, caregiver stress, and QoL.

Community partnerships
Schools, NGOs, and public health align around goals.

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