FASD Focus NW
FASD Focus NW
Formerly NOFAS Washington State

FASD Aware for Schools

Building an inclusive culture for youth with FASDs

REsources and support

Current research estimates that as much as 5% of the population is impacted by FASDs with as many as 10-13% impacted in foster care or other vulnerable populations. That means at least one student in each class. And diagnosis is not always possible.

While there are resources out there for teachers, classified staff and administrators, finding it and putting it together can be a daunting task, let alone making sure that it’s practical for use in a school setting.

NOFAS is partnering with schools to support them in creating their own FASD Aware training. You provide the staff, we’ll provide the outline and support to help you build your own training for your class, school or district.

Read through the information below and let’s get started.

 
 
 

FACE FActs

While there are facial features commonly associated with FASDs, it’s important to note that those facial features only appear when mothers drink during a very small time frame in pregnancy.  FASDs can be present with or without the “face of FASD”. That’s why it’s an invisible disability

Thanks to Pr%f Alliance for the info graphic

Thanks to Pr%f Alliance for the info graphic

developmental not chronological.jpg

In the Classroom Students with FASDs can exhibit

  • Hyperactive behavior

  • Difficulty with focus and attention

  • Problems with short term or working memory

  • Executive function deficits

  • Learning disabilities

  • Speech and receptive language delays

  • Poor reasoning and judgement skills

  • Difficulties reading social cues

  • No issues at all, but will explode at home after school

 
 

Let’s Get Started

Step 1

Form a team. Not just teachers, not just special education professionals. Look at resource staff, general ed teachers, administrators, recess staff. FASD impacts 360 degrees of a students life, look at including a sample of anyone who can make a difference. Let our FASD Aware for Schools team know that you are interested.

Step 2

Contact the University of Washington FASD Diagnostic and Prevention Network and book your team for the 1 day training. If available, a NOFAS Volunteer can accompany you to the training. Trainings are held at the University of Washington Center for Human Development and Disabilities (CHDD) in Seattle on Fridays. 

Step 3

After the training, schedule a 1 hour debrief with your NOFAS WA Volunteer. We will help your team document and put together training specifically targeted to your district or school.