Purpose
The purpose of this topic is to provide information on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). This topic aims to expand the knowledge base and capacity of professionals, educators, and service providers. The Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders topic includes the following materials: (a) syllabus, (b) professional development guide (slide deck), (c) case study, (d) learning activities, (e) multimedia illustrations, and (f) resources. This topic can also be adapted by faculty for use as course materials.
The sections of this topic are designed to be flexible. Sample syllabi serve as a resource to help you consider the key sections and content to include in a syllabus, as well as ideas for content specific to each topic area. PD guides can be used in their entirety to cover multiple PD sessions. Specific content in the topics, PD guides, multimedia illustrations (videos), learning activities, and resources can be used individually to enhance existing course content.
Objectives
As a result of active participation and successful engagement with this topic, students will be able to:
- Define why conditions related to prenatal alcohol exposure are considered an “umbrella diagnosis” and describe their etiology, characteristic presentations, and individual variation.
- Apply knowledge of normative sequences of early development and knowledge of FAS features to create plans for assessment and intervention in young children exhibiting characteristics of FASD.
- Apply knowledge of biological and environmental protective and risk factors to exhibit professionalism and cultural and family sensitivity during maternal interviews and in the creation of public health material related to FASD, including preventative aspects.
- Describe curriculum modifications, classroom accommodations, and supporting factors to promote the educational success of young children with FASD conditions.
- Demonstrate preparedness to collaborate on interdisciplinary teams to support the health and development of individuals with FASD across their lifespan.
Sample Syllabus
PD Guide
PowerPoint:
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD)
The Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) presentation provides an overview of how prenatal alcohol exposure affects infants and young children’s physical, cognitive, and behavioral development. It explains the main diagnostic categories (FAS, pFAS, ARND, ARBD), highlights common features such as growth delays, facial differences, attention and learning challenges, and outlines risk factors related to maternal alcohol use. The presentation emphasizes evidence-based supports—structured routines, visual aids, multi-sensory learning, and collaborative family-centered approaches—to help children succeed at home and in educational settings. Through case studies, group activities, and video reflections, participants explore ways to create individualized plans (IFSPs and transition supports) and strengthen interagency collaboration to promote positive outcomes for children with FASD and their families.
Case Study
Case Study: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
Natalie is a 10-month-old infant diagnosed with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). Follow Natalie and her family as they engage in screening, multidisciplinary assessment, IFSP planning, and early intervention services.
Learning Activities
Multimedia Illustrations
- Title with a description
- Link to video
- Suggested citation
- Length of the video
- EI/ECSE standard
- DEC Recommended Practice