Welcome To September! FASD Awareness Month

FASD Month is a special time dedicated to spreading knowledge and understanding about fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). 

With events happening worldwide, this month goes beyond a single day of recognition. In 2020, the Government of Canada officially designated September as FASD Awareness Month, creating more opportunities to raise awareness and dispel misconceptions about this condition.

During FASD Month, we aim to celebrate individuals with FASD, challenge the stigma associated with the disability, and promote accurate information about the disorder. 

Across Canada will light up in red, serving as a visual reminder of FASD awareness. 

From Edmonton's High Level Bridge to many other iconic sites, 45 landmarks will 

participate in this movement!!

1. Advocate for an Individualized Education Plan (IEP): Work closely with the school's special education team to develop an IEP tailored to your child's specific needs. Ensure that the plan includes accommodations and modifications that address their cognitive and behavioral challenges. Regularly review and update the IEP as needed.

2. Provide Consistency and Structure: Children with FASD often benefit from a structured environment with clear routines and expectations. Communicate with teachers about the importance of consistency in the classroom. This can help reduce anxiety and improve their ability to focus and learn.

3. Use Visual Supports: Visual aids, such as visual schedules, social stories, and visual cues, can be highly effective in helping children with FASD understand and follow instructions. Work with the school to implement these visual supports both at home and in the classroom.

4. Educate Teachers and Staff: Share information about FASD with your child's teachers and school staff. Provide resources and training materials to help them better understand the condition and its impact on learning and behavior. Encourage open communication between home and school.

5. Promote Self-Advocacy and Emotional Regulation: Help your child develop self-advocacy skills and strategies for emotional regulation. Teach them to recognize their own triggers and emotions and provide tools, like deep breathing exercises or a sensory toolkit, that can help them manage their reactions in a school environment.