Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD)

SETEMBER IS FASD AWARENESS MONTH

SEPTEMBER is a meaningful time to raise awareness of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders and to celebrate the strengths, talents, and victories of the estimated one in twenty Americans who have an FASD. This year specifically is the 50th anniversary of FASD in the United States (first diagnosed in 1973), and there are many ways you can spread awareness and education. Throughout the month and specifically on September 9th, which is international FASD Awareness day, there are numerous ways to engage in advocacy, support, community, and awareness of FASD. This year, FASD United has themes for each week of September to help guide you in getting involved! FASD UNITED also has an FASD AWARENESS TOOLKIT. Please go to the FASD UNITED website to learn more and find some tools and/or activities that might work for your school and community. Help to spread hope and acceptance for people with FASD. Another important website for FASD is SuPPoRT Colorado – Illuminate (Supporting Perinatal substance use Prevention, Recovery, and Treatment in Colorado).

Definition: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a descriptive term (not a diagnostic term) used to describe a group of conditions or a range of effects caused by prenatal exposure to alcohol. These effects can include physical issues and difficulties with behavior and learning. Often, a person with an FASD has a combination of these conditions. These conditions can affect each person in different ways, and can range from mild to severe. The most well-known diagnosis within this umbrella category is Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) – which only represents a portion of persons with effects of prenatal alcohol exposure.

 Technical assistance: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) (PDF)

What is FASD? (FASD Project Video)

The FASD Project [https://thefasdproject.org]

FASD Prevalence and Effects

This infographic from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that up to 1 in 20 U.S. school children may have Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).

Professional Development

FASD Professional Development Page

• Understanding the Brain Learning Series
• 8 Magic Keys - Video
• Education and FASD Toolkit
• Challenging Behavior and Executive Function Modules
• Level 2 Brain Injury Training Modules

PSAs

Public Service Announcements Page

• Family Colorado PSA
• Little Girl Colorado PSA
• Happy Hour Colorado PSA
• Mother and Son Colorado PSA

Resources

FASD Resources Page

• Parent Resources
• Educator Resources
• Organizations