Webinar - September 2025: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is under-recognized as the primary diagnosis for babies, children and youth displaying symptoms often associated with Autism, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Oppositional Defiance Disorder, among others. Studies show that 18% of the children in the child welfare system are impacted by FASD, causing a significant impact on placements and permanency due to misunderstood and potentially misdiagnosed behaviors.

This 90-minute webinar equips child welfare professionals and those in Wraparound, mental health and behavioral health systems with the foundational knowledge and empathy-driven tools to better support youth affected by FASD. Participants will gain insight into the nuanced challenges and misunderstood behaviors associated with FASD, while exploring best practices for identifying FASD and connecting families to appropriate diagnostic and support services. Emphasis will be placed on reducing stigma in conversations about prenatal substance use, and on building compassion toward biological and resource families navigating these challenges. The session features a 75-minute presentation followed by a 15-minute live Q&A.

Key Learning Topics Include:

• Recognizing behavioral signs and functional indicators that may warrant a FASD-specific assessment
• Asking about prenatal substance exposure in a respectful, non-stigmatizing way
• Understanding that alcohol exposure does not always result in visible impairment–and why that matters in child welfare decision-making
• Normalizing FASD-related needs for caregivers and systems of care
• Providing families with relevant resources and referrals
• Addressing implicit bias and countering assumptions about "healthy-looking" infants
• Understanding FASD across the developmental lifespan and its intersection with mental health
• Data-informed insights: FASD prevalence, risk factors and implications for foster youth populations

This training will also address how cultural practices and systemic barriers can influence both exposure and responses to alcohol use in pregnancy. Through guided reflection, attendees will be encouraged to reframe judgement with empathy and recognize alcoholism as a treatable condition rather than a moral failing. 

Who Should Attend

Child Welfare social workers, Wraparound providers, Mental and Behavioral Health practitioners and other family-serving professionals are encouraged to join us for this engaging and informative 90-minute session.