Provincial Outreach Program
for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (POPFASD)

In September, 2006, the Ministry of Education announced a new provincial resource program:  The Provincial Outreach Program for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (POPFASD).  Part of our mandate is to provide services through our website so that teachers, parents, students and others increase their understanding of FASD. Through consultation with teachers and other experts in the field of FASD, we use this website as a vehicle for providing information about the effects of FASD on student learning and behaviour.  We share current research, ideas, strategies, training and resources in order to build capacity in school districts for students with FASD and their teachers.

We also liaise with designated District Partners for FASD from each district; this allows us to communicate through one key individual from each district regarding in-service and support need.  We welcome your input and feedback…and we want to hear from you.

What is FASD?

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term that covers a range of harms or disorders caused by the mother's use of alcohol during pregnancy. The resulting disabilities can include brain damage, vision and hearing problems, slow growth and organ and limb defects. Individuals born with FASD often have lifelong physical and learning difficulties and problems with memory, reasoning, attention and judgment due to the neurological damage.

FASD is considered to be the most common form of preventable birth disorder in the Western world. Exact rates of FASD are not known and the incidence varies from community to community. Health Canada estimates that approximately 9 out of every 1000 children born in Canada are affected by FASD. To learn more about FASD click on "Learning about FASD" under the eLearning menu located at the top of this page. 

 eLearning Modules (Modules Guide)

eLearning modules provide a new way to learn about FASD.  We combine powerpoint, narration and video clips and/or photo’s to help you understand a particular topic.

As of January, 2009, we have created 24 eLearning modules. To view these, click the eLearning Modules Guide link just above, click the blue eLearn button in the right sidebar, or use the menu at the top of this page and click eLearning. We have modules under "Learning About FASD", "Planning Instruction", "Creating a Positive Behaviour Climate", "Teaching to Strengths and Needs", "Developing the IEP", and "Assessment Networks".