1: READ this overview of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder on the FASLink site. Note the very wide range of disorders and symptoms that can fall under the FASD umbrella (in the chart labeled "In utero alcohol damage can include:").
2: JOIN the FASLink e-mail support list to hook up with a large number of parents who are going through the same things you are.
3: BUY a copy of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, Fetal Alcohol Effects: Strategies for Professionals by Diane Malbin, an inexpensive, easy-to-read booklet that provides constructive advice on how to handle and help a child with FASD.
4: PRINT these brochures from the FAS Community Resource Center: "FAS and the Brain" and "Ain't Misbehavin'". Study them yourself and pass a copy on to anyone who works with your child.
5: VISIT our listing of FASD links for more information and ideas.
Do you have suggestions for parents of children newly diagnosed with FASD? Tell them about that book that explained everything, that website full of resources, that e-mail group you still lean on, that experience with your child that made you see things differently. Those of us who have been there have important gifts to give those who have not yet done that. Offer your words of wisdom and experience where you see "Tell Your Tips" below.
