These numbers show that mental health is an extremely important consideration when discussing the needs, supports, and resources of individuals with FASD. Screening for mental illness early in the lives of individuals with FASD can be an important strategy to early identification and treatment.
#FeatureFridays – Our School Staff
In honour of the International Day of Education, we created a contest to celebrate the work that school staff across Canada have done to support individuals with FASD. We asked Canadians to nominate those teachers, principals, bus drivers, and administrators who have gone above and beyond to help their students succeed. These are some of our favorite entries!
3 Evidence Based Strategies and Programs to Support Students with FASD
We’ve pulled together 3 programs and strategies from recent research that are designed to support students with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) to succeed in our education system.
Experiences in Education
These stories are peppered with repeating themes. In order to achieve success, individuals with FASD need parental and educational support, access to effective resources, programs, and services, and FASD-informed school staff.
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) and Education
In Canada, we have a strong education system that offers free elementary and high school learning opportunities to all Canadians. However, the structure of our education system does not necessarily take into account the varying needs of all learners across our nation.
Introducing Education Week!
The United Nations calls for “inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning for all”. In Canada, we have a strong education system that offers free elementary and high school learning opportunities to all Canadians. However, the structure of our education system does not necessarily take into account the varying needs of all learners across our nation, particularly those with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).
#FeatureFriday – David Brown, CanFASD Board Member
David and his dog, Willow David Brown sits on the CanFASD Board of Directors. He is a recent addition to our team but brings years of experience in the field of substance use and addiction. David started in this field as an academic working in the sociology department at the University of Lethbridge in Alberta. He shifted from an academic … Read More
Article Summary – How Personal Perspectives Shape Health Professionals’ Perceptions of FASD and Risk
Discussions with health and social service practitioners in New Zealand found that the non-clinical factors, such as personal experience and opinions, are influencing their professional practice in relation to FASD prevention and intervention. Consistent, evidence-based training programs for health professionals are sorely needed to improve FASD practice.
New Brunswick Team Receives the Inaugural Claudette Bradshaw Innovation Award
We would like to take this opportunity to publicly congratulate the New Brunswick FASD Centre of Excellence for their incredible contributions to the field of FASD service delivery and support. We would also like to give a huge thank you to all those who applied for the Claudette Bradshaw Innovation Award. Your continued contributions to this field have been integral to improving the lives of individuals and families across Canada.
Article Summary – Review of Transition Planning Tools for Youth with FASD in Canada
The transition to adulthood can be a challenging experience for individuals with FASD because of the expectation of increased responsibility and independence in adulthood. The unique nature of FASD, coupled with the wide range of challenges individuals with FASD face and the lack of FASD specific services available, suggests that particular attention should be paid to the transition planning process for youth with FASD.