FAE+needs

__What Are the Needs of Children With Fetal Alcohol Syndrome? __

__Behaviour__
Children with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome are often stubborn and may not score well on tests. Behavioural problems often interfere with their ability to succeed. Extensive education and training for the parents and teachers who care for these kids is essential in helping the children succeed.(Kids Health,1995) While outgoing and social engaging they may also have poor social judgment and poor socialization skills leading to them being too talkative or unaware of social cues. Their social immaturity contributes to difficulties in making friends. Many have memory problems which can lead to setbacks in academic achievement.(The Adoption foundation, 1995)

__Medical__
Infants with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome are at risk for central nervous system problems, including a weak suck, sleeping difficulties and failure to thrive. When they are adolescents they tend to be sexually curious but have a lack of understanding of socially appropriate sexual behaviour. Birth control and education is an additional area of medical concern.(The Adoption Foundation,1995)

__Educational__
Children with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome have special education needs which may include early stimulation programs to help with intellectual and motor development. As preschoolers they often have a range of developmental and language delays. They can become hyperactive, irritable and distractable. Programs that follow individualized educational plans are helpful for the child. Appropriate placement in special education classes beginning in elementary school is often necessary. A classroom setting with clear guidelines and a great deal of individual attention can maximize the intellectual capabilities. Many people with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome reach an academic plateau in high school. Many will be unable to hold a regular job.(The Adoption Foundation,1995)

Unfortunately, most vocational and technical institutes beyond high school will offer a curricula too academically rigorous for developmentally delayed individuals.

__Family__
People with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome are at a higher risk for physical and sexual abuse and neglect when raised by their families of origin.(The Adoption Foundation,1995). "They are also most likely to lose custody of their own children due to substance abuse or child abuse".(Coles,2003,p.2) F.A.S. children require constant supervision and this can be exhausting for the birth,foster, and adoptive parents. Children need a supportive, loving home environment with clear guidelines and clear lines of communication in order to develop to their fullest potential. Parents require an extradionary amount of energy, love, and most of all consistency. Consequently, many parents need support themselves.(Jordan,1997).The parents also need information about the syndrome of which their child has been diagnosed. Many caretakers of children with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome will require some form of financial assistance. As a result of their poor social judgement, underdeveloped independent living skills and impaired intellectual functioning, most Fetal Alcohol Syndrome children will require a structured, sheltered living situation throughout their lives. They may be able to live in a group home or halfway house for developmentally disabled adults.(The Adoption Foundation,1995). When it is necessary to place children in foster care is is recommended that they are placed with parents who are calm. low key individuals who are secure and comfortable with themselves(Jordan,1997).