The following is a list of great VHS/DVD resources that all have the topic of FASD or another related topic. Please let us know if there is a VHS/DVD title you would like us to share.

F.A.S.: When the Children Grow Up (Knowledge Network; National Film Board of Canada)

Comments: current (2002); 40 minutes; DVD (also available in French)

Content:

• explores the realities of living with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (F.A.S.) and partial F.A.S., called Fetal Alcohol Effects (F.A.E.)
• this documentary tells the stories of three adults living with F.A.S.; provides commentary from experts in the field

To more information and to order: National Film Board: http://www.nfb.ca/collection/films/fiche/?id=53434; cost: $59.95; 1-800-267-7710

Date reviewed: June, 2006 (updated Dec., 2009)

FASD: Finding Hope

Comments:  2009; Knowledge Network – see below for length of each chapter

Content:  Finding Hope tells the stories of four mothers and their kids, as they search for answers and understanding of FASD.  Focusing on both prevention and potential, this documentary follows the families and features important insight and information from the doctors, experts, teachers and caregivers who strive to provide a greater understanding about FASD. 

It includes an introduction, documentary of the families, and other chapters on resources and supports (10 chapters; 54:02) As well, five separate components focus on “About FASD” (6 chapters; 06:41), “Prevention” (4 chapters; 06:33), “Assessment and Diagnosis” (6 chapters; 09:44), “Resources for Parents” (10 chapters; 22:33) and “Resources for Educators” (7 chapters; 15:46).  Each of these five components also has a text overview, links and downloads.

Update Jan 15 2010: the Knowledge Network is launching a new website with a new content management system. The temporary link for watching this online is:

http://findinghope.knowledge.ca/

To order:  Not available to purchase at this time but it may be borrowed from a local library in your area. 

Date reviewed:  August, 2009 (updated Dec. 2009)

How Difficult Can This Be: Understanding Learning Disabilities (PBSVideo/McIntyre Media; Richard Lavoie)

Comments: a bit dated but still very effective; 75 minutes; DVDContent:

• not specific to FASD but an experiential and powerful video which simulates how learners with various disabilities "learn" (and feel!)

To order:  http://www.mcintyre.ca/   (1-800-565-3036); $69.95

Date reviewed: June, 2006 (updated Dec. 2009)

Recovering Hope (US Department of Health and Human Services, Substance Abuse and Mental  Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA’s) National Clearinghouse for Alcohol an Drug Information (NCADI)

Comments:  current (2004); two 30 minute sessions; DVD or video

Content: 

• created for viewing by women in recovery and their counselors eight women tell poignant, memorable stories; they speak out about how alcohol use during pregnancy affected their children, how they are learning new ways to parent, and how they are recovering hope for the future
• six researchers and clinicians support these stories by explaining the physical, mental, behavioural and learning disabilities associated with FASD and discussing evaluation and intervention services (Astley, Streissguth, Conner etc.)

Other: 

• comes with a companion brochure called “Be the Best Mom You Can Be”

To order:  Currently out of print, however, an updated version with closed captioning is set to be released in early 2010.  A few copies may still be available by contacting 1(866)786-7327 or emailing fasdcenter@samhsa.hhs.gov

• FREE!

Date reviewed: June, 2006 (updated Dec., 2009)

Scrabble Rabble:  The Game of Life (Bulkley Valley FASD Prevention Committee; Smithers Community Services; funded through MCFD Make Children First and community sponsors)

Comments:  2009; DVD; 33 minutes; target audience is adolescent to adult

Content:  Instructional tool about FASD issues delivered through dramatic simulations and choices about intervention strategies; very graphic and fast-paced; explanations and examples of FASD as a neurodevelopmental disability; strengths-based

To order:  $25.00 (comes with a Basic FASD Facts Handout); contact Marilyn Krueger at 250-847-9515 or email fasd@scsa.ca

Updated Dec., 2009

Students Like Me

Comments: current (2000); 39 minutes; DVD or VHS

Content:

• gives a visual model for teachers to work effectively with students affected by FAS
• shows how to recognize a child with FAS in the classroom, how to modify the classroom environment, provide structure and predictability, adjust teaching methods, communicate clearly and plan transitions and unstructured time

To order: Available from the Canadian Learning Company - print the order form at  www.canlearn.com/pdf-lib/order.pdf  and mail or fax order to them.  Home edition (private home use only) $39.95, Single SIte license (school or address, no loans permitted) $195.00 and Public Performance Rights (use on site or loans off site) $225.00.  Shipping costs and GST are extra and please fax in order if using a Purchase Order (1-519-537-1035).

Date reviewed: June, 2006 (updated Dec., 2009)