My Son Was Diagnosed With Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Today

[Sticky]

I knew at the time of his adoption he was Fetal Alcohol Effect and things could change for the worse when school started but a diagnosis of full blown fas has me reeling. Along with FAS he is ADD/ADHD, MD (Memory Deficit) and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Although he is 6.5 years old he is only functioning at 4.....tough words to hear after a 3 hour examination.

My son is loving, happy, creative and gorgeous ( :) ) with loads of potential but my worry is how can I get him educated? Does anyone out there have any experience with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome?

[Chalco]

1. What a blow. I'm sorry.

Did they do testing so that you can find the right school for him and/or special education programming? He'll require extra care but he can be educated and educated well. He sounds like a lovely little guy with lots of needs.

[knowbody0]

2. i adopted three siblings

10 years ago. FAS, and addicted to heroin at birth. they were considered "feral" when they were placed in my foster home. the cigaret burns had not yet healed. when the van drove up, the oldest, age 5 jumps out. "hi mom. do you smoke?"
my heart filled with admiration for this frail wee child, who i quickly realized was mother to the two four year olds.
it is 10 years later. they are on the honor roll. my son won first place in his wrestling league. the girls are in basketball and all three are currently in cross country.
do not listen to the statistics. my son had the same diagnosis, and actually was expelled from kindergarden for pulling the fire alarm. be consistant, show him consequences, be vigilant of his diet, .. i found a martial arts teacher for him at 6 which really gave him focus and confidence.
love is the most powerful energy - believe in him.

[FourStarDemocrat]

3. Sorry to hear that too..

Your son might do well on a low- moderate dose of medication to treat ADHD symptoms, but sometimes they may exxacerbate symptoms of OCD because they are stimulants. Consult a psychiatrist regarding meds. Also, in a few years when he is more conversant he may benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which has been shown to be effective in treating symptoms of OCD. Check out the OCD foundation for more information.

I don't have any experience with FAS, but your son is legally entitled to get an education in the least restrictive environment, which means either in special classes at a local elementary school, or in a special day school that is licensed to work with children with his disabilities, and provides transportation back and forth. Google the IDEA 1997 and 2004 Reathorized IDEA information on this law and the info will come up. Also, plan a meeting with your school district 's director of special ed, they are responsible to either provide his education or to pay the costs of his education at an appropriate school. There are also parent advocacy groups in every state that can assist you. Good luck!

[Sticky]

4. Thanks a bunch, guys!

The news is starting to settle now and I'm determined to get him every support and service the school board has to offer. I spoke with someone today who heads the local FAS/E chapter and he says my son will qualify for a private teaching assistant, someone who will join his already exisiting class.

Thanks for the great advice!

[SW FL Dem]

5. I am so sorry to hear this

I don't have any experience with Fetal Alcohol Syndrom, but I know of several kids with ADHD who have done well in school. You need to find a good support group. People who have been through this can be an invaluable rescource.

I wish you and your son the best.

[Bonhomme Richard]

6. I'm sorry to hear about your sons diagnosis........

and I wish I could give some advice but I have not had any experience in that area. What I do know is that you are a loving giving person and your sons future couldn't be in better hands.