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Stay up-to-date on FASD
We’re sharing industry news, articles, community involvement, and more.
News
Stay up-to-date on FASD
We’re sharing industry news, articles, community involvement, and more.
Canada Disability Benefit Applications Open
Applications for the new Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) open today - Friday, June 20, 2025. This benefit is a step forward in supporting the financial security of persons
The Dangers of Online Trends: FASD and Celebrity Speculation
By canfasdblog on May 21, 2025 05:00 am The internet has made it easier than ever to share information, but it has also fueled a troubling trend. Over
FASD and the Legal System: Why Training Matters
By canfasdblog on Apr 23, 2025 05:00 am Recent headlines have underscored the need for more FASD training and understanding at all levels of the criminal legal system.
Conference Travel Awards
We’re excited to announce that travel awards will be available for individuals with living experience to attend the Canada FASD Conference this October! Visit our website to learn more about
Make FASD Matter: Getting Ready for the 2025 Federal Election
By canfasdblog on Mar 26, 2025 05:08 am With the Canadian federal election set for April 28, 2025, now is the perfect time to raise awareness about Fetal
Canada FASD Conference MC : RJ Formanek
We are thrilled to announce that the renowned RJ Formanek will be joining us in Toronto as the Canada FASD Conference's Master of Ceremonies. Having not received an
2025 Sterling Clarren Award
By canfasdblog on Mar 12, 2025 06:13 am We are thrilled to announce that applications are now open for this year’s Dr. Sterling Clarren FASD Research Award. The
Submit an Abstract : CanFASD Conference
Do you have an innovative program or service to support those with FASD? Are you doing groundbreaking research in FASD or FASD prevention? Do you have a story
Registration for the Canada FASD Conference
It’s finally here! Registration for the Canada FASD Conference 2025 is now open! Early bird pricing is available until June 30, 2025. Join us at the Canada FASD
Alcohol & Breastfeeding
By Edmonton and area Fetal Alcohol Network Society on 29 Jan 2025 This issue paper, Alcohol and Breastfeeding, explores the potential effects of alcohol consumption during lactation on
Children’s Book: Teach the children in your life all about FASD!
If you are the parent of a child with FASD, you probably know that many children's books fail to represent the diverse experiences that children with FASD have.
What is trauma-informed practice?
By canfasdblog on Jan 22, 2025 06:00 am Frontline providers play a crucial role in supporting individuals with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). If you are frontline worker
Share Your Insights: Call to Alberta’s Caregivers & Educators
By Edmonton and area Fetal Alcohol Network Society on January 7, 2025 The Alberta FASD Service Networks are reaching out to caregivers and educators across the province to gather feedback
CanFASD 2024 Webinar Series
For the past four years, CanFASD has been running a webinar series to share knowledge and research about FASD with more people. In 2024, they hosted 12 webinars on various topics
Announcing the theme of Canada FASD Conference 2025!
By canfasdblog on Dec 04, 2024 07:00 am The theme of next year’s Canada FASD Conference will be Shaping the Future of FASD: From Evidence to Action! The conference planning
Holiday Gift Ideas for the FASD Community
By canfasdblog on Nov 27, 2024 07:00 am It’s that time of year again! The holiday season is upon us. A lot of you are wondering what to
Winter Wonders: Exploring Alcohol-Free Joy This Holiday Season
Winter is here, and with it comes the sparkle of holiday lights, the warmth of cozy gatherings, and the promise of new beginnings. As we embrace the festive
Supporting Birth Parents Raising Children with FASD
By Edmonton and area Fetal Alcohol Network Society on November 18, 2024 This webinar is for those who want to learn more about how to support birth parents
Poster Presentation on Preconception Approaches
7th European FASD Alliance Conference in Madrid By canfasdblog on Nov 13, 2024 06:00 am Ella Huber was a recipient of a CanFASD Travel Award for the 7th
Why FASD is an essential diagnostic term: Response to the Lancet Article
October 31, 2024 The Canada FASD Research Network, CanFASD, feels compelled to make an official statement on the recent opinion published in the Lancet by Eliason et al.,
Cannabis Use during Pregnancy: An Update
By Edmonton and area Fetal Alcohol Network Society on 21 Oct 2024 Gerede A, Stavros S, Chatzakis C, Vavoulidis E, Papasozomenou P, Domali E, Nikolettos K, Oikonomou E,
8 Keys For Adults With FASD
A film by Dan Redfield for the Alaska Center for FASD. Seven adults with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders telling their stories, challenges, strengths, and strategies for success.
Helping With Drinking: Website Resource
Developed by the Canadian Research Initiative in Substance Misuse and BC Centre on Substance Use, this website offers information and resources for the public and for health care providers based on
The Alcohol Industry and Social Responsibility: Links to FASD
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder is directly linked to the consumption of alcohol during pregnancy.
Unmet Need For Alcohol Use Disorder Treatment in Reproductive-Age Females
Emphasis on pregnant and parenting populations in the United States: Findings from NSDUH 2015–2021
What’s Happening During FASD Awareness Month 2024?
By canfasdblog on Sep 01, 2024 07:51 am International FASD Awareness Month is here! FASD Month is an opportunity to raise awareness of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, share
Support FASD on International Charity Day
By canfasdblog on Sep 04, 2024 07:00 am Did you know that CanFASD Research Network is a not for profit and registered charity in Canada? September 5th is
Foetal Alcohol Syndrome
There is growing recognition that how much men drink before conception plays a role in foetal alcohol spectrum disorders
Research Participants Needed
Impact Of Prenatal Alcohol Exposure On Adult Health Outcomes
CanFASD’s 2023-2024 Annual Report
Curious about CanFASD’s impact over the last year? Our 2023-2024 Annual Report offers a glimpse into CanFASD’s remarkable achievements.
Activities in and Around Home and Community This Summer
Here are some activities that can keep children with FASD busy in and around their homes and communities.
Thinking About FASD Month
Everyone Plays a Part. CANFASD Webinar
Acting on the Influences on Alcohol Use in Pregnancy
The Need for a National Framework. Retreived from Girls, Women, Alcohol, and Prevention: Perspectives on FASD Prevention
Celebrating Pride Month
We, as a network dedicated to promoting inclusivity and diversity, are thrilled to celebrate Pride Month this June.
Celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Day 2024
This Friday (June 21) is National Indigenous Peoples Day. This is a day to recognize and celebrate the heritage, cultures, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.
Value of Hearing First Hand Experiences
“Getting to hear first-hand experiences from people with FASD was invaluable”
The Prevalence of Alcohol Use During Pregnancy in Canada
CanFASD recently released a new issue paper titled, The Prevalence of Alcohol Use During Pregnancy in Canada. Below is a short summary.
FASD missing from Federal Budget 2024
The Federal Government recently released a 400-page budget, outlining their key priorities and investments for 2024.
FASD Conference – Call For Abstracts
Call for abstract for LCFASD's Biennial Conference: Beyond the Spectrum. October 22-23, 2024
FASD Common Messaging Guide Released
Since 2017, we have been publishing an FASD Common Messages Guide, a resource focused on respectful ways of writing and talking about FASD. Learn more about the 2024 Release
Mocktail Recipes
Mocktail (non-alcoholic) recipe guide! Support an alcohol free pregnancy.
2023 Year in Review
The past year has been a testament to our collective efforts, and we would like to thank everyone has been involved with CanFASD. Today we wanted to take the opportunity to look at our organization by the numbers.
Mocktails For Me: Come Together 2023
Come together as a community this Christmas season. Support an alcohol free pregnancy.
New Resource on FASD and Mental Health
We hope that this resource guide will help mental health professionals engage in reflection, increased their knowledge of FASD, and allowed people to feel more comfortable supporting people with FASD.
Apply Now: FASD Instructional Coach
South Alberta Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Service Network is looking for a FASD Instructional Coach for the WRaP2.0 program.
Boosting Wages For Front-Line Workers
Seniors, Community and Social Services Minister Jason Nixon announced increased wages for front-line workers supporting individuals with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder.
Supporting Alcohol-Free Pregnancies and Reducing Stigma
As FASD Day approaches on September 9th, it is essential to recognize the importance of supporting women and gender diverse pregnant individuals and persons planning pregnancies in their journey towards alcohol-free pregnancies.
Attention All Educators: The WRaP 2.0 FASD Coaching Partnership Project
WRaP 2.0 FASD Coaching Partnership Project, a comprehensive service delivery model designed to enhance your capacity in meeting the unique needs of students with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).
Substance Use in Youth with FASD
Substance use by individuals with FASD is becoming an increasing concern. Data from the National FASD Database shows that nearly half of individuals with FASD are using substances with alcohol and cannabis being the most common.
Preparing for Back To School: Strategies for Caregivers
Hey there caregiving superheroes! It’s that time of the year again, when chaos and excitement collide: the back-to-school season! 🎒✏️
What’s Happening During FASD Month 2023
Throughout the month of September, events are held across Canada and around the world in recognition of FASD Day. But FASD awareness initiatives deserve more than one day of focus.
Apply Now: Network Coordinator
South Alberta Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Service Network is looking for a person to work as a quarter time Network Co-Coordinator.
Common Messaging Guide: 2023 Release
FASD Common Messages Guide, a resource focused on respectful ways of writing and talking about FASD. Each spring, we review the guide and update it with new research and conversations that emerge in the FASD community.
Nurturing Social Skills in Youth with FASD
Strategies for Caregivers: Nurturing Social Skills in Youth with FASD. Social skills play a crucial role in our everyday interactions and relationships, contributing to our overall well-being.
Promoting Healthy Hygiene in Youth with FASD
Hygiene Strategies for Caregivers. Maintaining good hygiene is an essential aspect of daily self-care that contributes to a person's overall health and well-being.
Celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Day
Formerly known as Aboriginal Day, National Indigenous Peoples Day was first celebrated in 1996 and is now held annually on June 21st
Study on Strengths : Participants Needed
Last call to participate in the CanFASD study on strengths!
Drink Less Is Better
Drinking less is better. We now know that even a small amount of alcohol can be damaging to health.
What’s Happening in FASD Research?
There’s a lot on the go right now in the realm of FASD research. Many studies are looking for people to share their ideas and experiences.
What is a Wraparound Program?
This info sheet is one of 12 two-pagers that highlights key findings and promising practices from the Co-Creating Evidence (CCE) study
Substance Use in Youth with FASD
Are you a youth (12-24) with FASD who has had treatment for substance use? Are you a caregiver of a youth (12-24) with FASD who has supported this youth in their substance use treatment? We want to talk to you!
Build a Better Foundation in FASD
CanFASD has nine different online learning courses available to improve professional and community understanding of FASD. Our courses are categorized by level of experience.
Submit Your Abstract: Canada FASD Conference
Time is ticking! You have less than two weeks left to submit your abstract for the first ever Canada FASD Conference, taking place from November 7-9, 2023 in
Top FASD Articles of 2022
A group of CanFASD staff members, Research Leads, and members of our Family Advisory Committee selects the articles. The group chooses research that aligns best with CanFASD’s areas of focus and that is generalizable to Canadians, can influence policy or practice, is ground-breaking or newsworthy, and is scientifically rigorous.
Support to attend the Canada FASD Conference
People with FASD, lived experience with FASD, and caregivers of people with FASD can now apply for financial support to attend the Canada FASD Conference this November.
Role of Men in FASD
When it comes to FASD prevention, awareness and management, men play a vital role. Whether as partners supporting an alcohol-free pregnancy, or as fathers raising children with FASD, mentors to young people, or peers and role models, men are important in many arenas. Watch live panel event
Smoking During Pregnancy: Outcomes in School-Age Children
Association of maternal smoking during pregnancy with neurophysiological and adhd-related outcomes in school-aged children
Celebrating Strengths in FASD
Its Neurodiversity Celebration Week! We had the opportunity to sit down with Dr. Katy Flannigan to talk about a new study we’re doing on strengths in adults with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). Here are a few highlights from that conversation.
Course: Substance Use Treatment and FASD
The course shares evidence-based knowledge and best practices on how to support individuals with FASD with substance use treatment.
Tell Us A Story
The struggle is real and so is success. FASD Family Life and ReThink FASD want to hear from YOU!
CanFASD Welcomes Updated Guidance on Alcohol Use
Drinking less is better. We now know that even a small amount of alcohol can be damaging to health.
Neurodevelopmental Disability Navigator Toolkit
Families of children with autism, cerebral palsy, and fetal alcohol spectrum disorder now have access to a free online resource called the Neurodevelopmental Disability Navigator Toolkit.
FASD Online Learning Opportunities
In total over 30,000 people have taken our online courses, which is incredible. Here are a few course updates to share with you.
Thinking About Pregnancy? A Booklet To Reflect On Alcohol Use Before You Are Pregnant
This booklet is offered as a tool for people who are planning a pregnancy to make decisions about alcohol.
Drinking Alcohol While Pregnant
Less than 1 drink per week can cause ‘significant’ changes in the brains of fetuses
Preparing for and Avoiding Behaviors During Holidays
Article re-posted from: Prevention Conversation blog Hark, the Holidays Approacheth! (Preparing for and Avoiding Behaviors During Holidays) The holidays can be a tough time for a lot of people,
Hands, Not Hurdles
This short, illustrated report follows RCY’s more detailed report Excluded, Increasing Understanding, Support and Inclusion for Children with FASD and their Families
Drinking During Pregnancy Changes Baby’s Brain Structure
Pregnant women who drink small-to-moderate amounts of alcohol during pregnancy risk altering their baby’s brain structure and delaying brain development.
Join our Family Advisory Committee
Looking for caregivers in Alberta to join an advisory committee. Advise on research priorities for families impacted by FASD.
“YOU DON’T WANT TO DRINK? WHAT ARE YOU, PREGNANT?!”
PORTRAYALS OF ALCOHOL AND SUBSTANCE USE DURING PREGNANCY ON TELEVISION
CCSA Updates Canada’s Low Risk Drinking Guidelines
Since being published in 2011, there has been substantial new research on alcohol use and the physical, mental, and social effects.
CCSA: Understanding Substance Use
This first education module explains the spectrum of substance use, problematic substance use and substance use disorder, strategies for reducing harm, and how to build resilience. The module
What Happened During FASD Awareness Month 2022
Article reposted from: canfasd blog, September 28, 2022, CanFASD Research and Publications FASD Awareness Month is almost over! Our theme this year was building strengths and abilities. The
Support a National FASD Strategy this FASD Awareness Month
Article reposted from: canfasd blog, September 14, 2022, CanFASD Research and Publications CanFASD has been working hard to encourage the Federal Government to develop and fund a National
FASD Awareness Internationally
Article reposted from: canfasd blog, September 7, 2022, CanFASD Research and Publications This Friday September 9th is International FASD Awareness Day! Throughout the month of September, events are
A Caregiver’s Guide To FASD Diagnosis
Article reposted from: canfasd blog CanFASD Research and Publications This guide is intended for caregivers (birth parents, kinship caregivers, foster parents, or adoptive parents) of children who were prenatally
Issue Paper: Psychotherapy for Individuals with FASD
Article reposted from: canfasd blog August 17, 2022 CanFASD Research and Publications Issue: Many people with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) experience mental health challenges at some point
FASD Resource: I am a Caregiver
Welcome to the “I am a Caregiver” resource guide for those providing care to a person with FASD. This guide was developed by CanFASD as a way for
FASD: A Whole-Body Diagnosis
This webinar is led by world-renowned motivational speaker, trainer and peer mentor Myles Himmelreich. He will speak about his lived experience and research conducted by FASD peer mentors
Tips for Caregivers
The Saskatchewan FASD Network has created several resources to help people learn about FASD and create strategies to support individuals with this disability. One gem is their ‘Tips
Applications for the 2023 FASD Research Award
The Canada FASD Research Network is excited to announce that we are accepting applications for the Dr. Sterling Clarren FASD Research Award! Deadline: October 14th, 2022
FASD Month Awareness
Join in FASD Month Awareness & Events. Report from CanFASD
CanFASD Annual Report 21/22
The CanFASD 2021/2022 Annual Report is now available to view
Caregiver Experiences
Highlight Successes and Strengths in People with FASD
Together for FASD: A Conference Overview
CanFASD, Together Finding Answers Improving Outcomes
Ask Me Anything About FASD with Jeff Noble
FASD podcast, Ask Me Anything Show with Jeff Noble
CCNB/UNB FASD Certificate Program
Earn your FASD Certificate Program Online! Starts October 17, 2022
CCSA: Cannabis use during Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Clearing the smoke on cannabis. Cannabis Use During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding.
Why it is Important to Include the Voice of Families in Research
From age 4 to 8, children become increasingly aware about normative situations for adults to consume alcohol
Caregiver Handouts: Games & Activities
Caregiver resources for infants to adolescents. Prepared by HCDC Pediatrics
Research Study: Adults Drinking + Children
From age 4 to 8, children become increasingly aware about normative situations for adults to consume alcohol
Optimizing Employment Opportunities and Outcomes for People with FASD
Policy Webinar Report, Prepared by CanFASD & Canada Northwest FASD Partnership
Call For Abstracts
FASD and Mental Health, it's all connected. Abstract deadline May 31, 2022
Webinar: Women, Alcohol Consumption And The Covid-19 Pandemic
Watch a webinar on Women, Alcohol Consumption And The Covid-19 Pandemic hosted by PAHO an WHO EURO.
Get Topic-Specific Information on FASD from Our Past Webinars
We wanted to take this opportunity to share the recordings of some of our most popular past webinars so you can continue to stay up to date on the most recent FASD information.
Human Trafficking and FASD
From December 13th to 24th CanFASD be releasing a new mocktail recipe every day.
Mocktails For Me Campaign
Why are you keeping you Holiday Spirits alcohol-free for? Check out the provincial Mocktails For Me campaign!
12 Days of Mocktails is Back
From December 13th to 24th CanFASD be releasing a new mocktail recipe every day.
Round Up Your Bill
In partnership with Firestone Restaurant we are excited to introduce the Round Up Your Bill campaign!
Alcohol-Free Holiday Season
Mocktails For Me. Support pregnant women in an alcohol free pregnancy.
Coffee Fundraiser
In partnership with Cupper’s Coffee & Tea House we are excited to introduce the unique SOUTH ALBERTA FASD NETWORK Whole Bean and Ground Coffee.
International FASD Awareness Day
For More information about Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) visit: FASD.alberta.ca PreventionConversation.org
Policing and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
March 15, 2021 By Peter Wigand Published by Blue Line : blueline.ca | Link to article Policing is evolving at a rapid pace and officers must stay updated
Articles from CanFASD
Visit the CanFASD site for more content.
- New Resource: A Toolkit to Support PAE Collection in FASD Diagnostic Clinics
- Trainee Series: Exploring Social Workers’ FASD Knowledge in New Brunswick
- What Alberta’s mental health report reveals about disability and access
- Trainee Series: FASD and the Criminal Legal System
- Call for Applications: Claudette Bradshaw Award 2025
- The Sober Curiosity movement and FASD prevention – How might they align?
- The Power of Networking: The Prevention Network Action Team (pNAT) on FASD Prevention from a Women’s Health Determinants Perspective
- International Action on Prevention of FASD – A Seat at the Table
- Alcohol Policy and FASD
- What communities can do toward FASD prevention
There is no safe time, no safe kind,
and no safe amount of alcohol to consume during pregnancy.
In Alberta, FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder) programs and services actively encourage that drinking no alcohol during pregnancy is best – no exposure equals no risk. These programs address prevention, awareness as well as supports for diagnosis/assessment and a variety of supports to individuals with FASD and their families.
