1. Cope With Behavioral Problems of Children With FAS
Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) has no real cure or treatment, and the effects are lifelong. A recent study has shown that children who are diagnosed with FAS before the age of 6, however, can be protected from some of the later-life consequences (problems with law enforcement and mental institutionalization) by living in a supportive environment. If you are the parent of a child with a fetal alcohol syndrome diagnosis, you should work with a therapist to create a home environment that includes a consistent schedule, clear rules and positive reinforcement. Family counseling may be needed to help your family cope with some of the problems that arise from having a FAS child. Other children in the family may need added support in dealing with some of these challenges.
2. Provide Special Education for Learning Disabilities
Children with fetal alcohol syndrome often have a difficult time in a school setting and typically have a variety of learning disabilities. Special educational services are often required to help these children with attention deficits as well as cognitive deficits. Additionally, therapy and counseling to develop social skills are usually required. Children with FAS are vulnerable to bullying and being taken advantage of in school because of poor social skills. Providing your child with opportunities to build self esteem and make his own decisions in protected environments can be beneficial.
3. Treat Alcoholic Pregnant Women With Counseling
Once a fetus has been damaged by alcohol exposure in utero, there is very little that can be done to reverse the damage. Most of the treatment for FAS revolves around treating pregnant women to prevent the disorder. Pregnant women need to be educated that any amount of alcohol while pregnant is unsafe for their unborn children. Pregnant women with alcoholism should be treated for their addictions and continue treatment throughout the pregnancy to help stay away from alcohol.
