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FeTAL ALCOHOL SYNDROME
DESCRIPTION
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is caused by a excessive amount of alcohol consumed by the mother during pregnancy. It effects the mental development and physical growth of the individual. Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, can be mild or severe and is a life long condition.
HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW FETAL ALCOHOL SYNDROME?
CHARACTERISTICS
- small head
- a small ridge between the upper lip and nose
- small and wide set eyes
- upturned nose
- abnormal facial features
- below average weight and height
- hyperactivity
- underdeveloped jaw
WAYS TO.....
COMMUNICATE
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Use Clear Language: Get right to the point
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Use positivity phrasing: If you say "Don't Run" all they hear is "Run." Say something like "John, walk."
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Give directions at one time
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Use visuals
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Ask them to show you their understanding
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Be consistent
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Avoid using idioms: Meaning something different then their expected definition
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Sign language if needed
Myth or Fact?
Ensure Success At Camp
When a mother drinks alcohol it passes into her breast milk?
Fact
These individuals don't have problems learning or communicating?
Myth
These individuals have problems with hearing, vision and memory?
Fact
Some people with FAS have cognitive impairments and/or development delays, while others do not?
Fact
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Provide support so that the individual can be successful in the program
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Take the action to help a participant be successful or speak on their behalf if unable to. Communication is key!
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Getting them involved in tasks, they want to feel a sense of belonging
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Let them show off their full potential, this will get the individual more involved, therefore they will be more successful
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Keep trying different strategies, what might of worked today, may not work tomorrow
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Modify games to get them more involved
CHALLENGES:
- Overall effects may include, physical, mental, behavioural and learning disabilities
- Primary Difficulties include paying attention, filtering sensory information, language, memory, planning and initiating activities, regulating emotions and life skills
- Difficulties with the law
- Difficulties with school
- Often get involved with drugs and/or alcohol
- Problems with employment
- Mental Health Disorders
BEHAVIOURS
You May See...
How TO HanDLe And DiFfuSe SITUATIONS:
- Difficulty with both verbal and non-verbal communication
- Individuals who have FAS, often have problems with both receptive (understanding what is being said to them) and expressive (speaking, or having others understand them) language
- Patience is key, take the time to understand your participant and their needs, this can diffuse a situation from escalating
- Also, if you are having a hard time getting your participant to listen, break down into steps. Eg. "First make craft, then we will go swimming"
- Use reinforcement methods
INSIDE THE LIFE OF FAS
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