2026 Education and FASD International Conference • Oct 23, 2026

Beyond the Brain: Understanding FASD from the Family Table

12:00PM to 12:25PM PDT / 25min

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a complex, whole-body, lifelong neurodevelopmental condition that extends far beyond cognitive challenges. Drawing directly from a parent’s lived experience, this presentation offers educators a rare, authentic look into the daily reality of raising a child with FASD.

Attendees will explore how sensory processing needs, executive dysfunction, and hidden trauma shape a student’s school day—and why many children use masked behavior to survive the classroom, hiding their struggles until they reach the safety of home. We will challenge traditional behavioral approaches by moving from a deficit-focused view to a strengths-based model that prioritizes safety, connection, and belonging.

Participants will gain actionable strategies for managing transitions, using concrete learning materials, and supporting essential life skills. By shifting our perspective from "they won't" to "they can't yet," parents and teachers can build a collaborative bridge that helps students with FASD thrive both academically and personally.