S

Fetal Alcohol

Syndrome Teaching Children with Disabilities

Naomi Klockmann

San Diego Christian College

Abstract

S What is Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS)?

S What are the causes of FAS?

S Background on FAS

S Symptoms of FAS

S Discuss Strategies for Teachers

S References

S

Define It…Fetal Alcohol Syndrome refers to defects in fetal

development that occur in a baby when the

mother drinks alcohol during pregnancy

Causes of FAS

FAS is caused by the using or abusing of alcohol during pregnancy.

There is no “safe” amount of alcohol usage during pregnancy

Drinking during the first 3 months of pregnancy is the most harmful

When a woman drinks alcohol it passes across the placenta to the fetus (see diagram)

(“Fetal alcohol syndrome”)

(WATTENDORF & MUENKE, 2005 )

Physical Abnormalities Small infant size

Small head circumference

Small mid-face

Thin and long upper lip

Low, Narrow forehead

Students with FAS also suffer

from… Seizures

Hearing Impairment

Brain Damage

Joint and limb irregularities

Heart defects

Delayed dental development

Abnormal central nervous system

Children with FAS often suffer from

AD/HD and emotional disturbances

(Nielsen , 2002, p. 86)

Strategies for Teachers

S Be aware of body language!

S Know warning signs for frustration, annoyance, sadness etc.

S Memory and Math tasks are difficult

S Make eye contact, repeat things, use short instructions and visuals

S Inconsistent performers & frustration with transitions

S Be prepared to spend extra time with FAS students

S Sensory integration problems

S Sensitivities can include crowds, holding hands, hugs,

even certain textiles("Teaching Students with FAS/FASD”)

Strategies for Teachers cont…

S Children with Fetal Alcohol

Syndrome CAN learn, they

learn and develop at a different

pace than normal students

("BREAKING THE CYCLE: Alcoholism and Fetal Alcohol Syndrome In Native American Indians”)

Conclusion Students with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome have serious

physical abnormalities which should be noticed right

away

Although these students are limited they are still

very teachable

Students with FAS enjoy structured environments,

repetitive work and learn best by visuals

Tell me and I'll forget; show me and I may

remember; involve me and I'll understand.