This one-hour presentation will discuss the similarities and differences between Autism and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (ASD/FASD).  Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) cover various conditions caused by moms drinking alcohol during pregnancy, leading to changes in the body and brain.  Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex brain-related condition.  Some experts think that when moms drink during pregnancy, it might raise the chances of their child having ASD, especially if there’s a family history. This review aims to break down the research on the possible connection between FASD and ASD.  Studies in this area have given mixed results, showing both similarities and differences between the two conditions.  What’s interesting is that both disorders often get misunderstood or not recognized enough.  So, it’s crucial to look beyond the obvious signs and pay attention to subtler traits and less severe cases.

Learning Objectives:

1. Better understand the similarities and differences between FASD and ASD.
2. Able to identify at least four similarities/differences in social behaviors in FASD and ASD.
3. Learn different teaching methods for working with students with ASD/FASD.

Presenter:  Kathryn Shea, LCSW, FASD United Board Member

Kathryn Shea is a licensed clinical social worker with over 40 years of experience working with children with serious emotional and behavioral disorders and fetal alcohol and drug effects.  She received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and her Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Kentucky.   She served as the President and CEO of The Florida Center for Early Childhood in Sarasota, FL for 12 years, whose mission is the healthy development of young children, their families, and communities.  Kathryn is a past president of the Florida Association for Infant Mental Health and has been very involved in developing and expanding Florida’s Early Childhood Court Initiative.  Ms. Shea currently serves on the board of FASD United (formerly NOFAS) and is an independent consultant at the local, state, and national levels.  Kathryn has received numerous awards for her work in infant mental health, FASD, and child advocacy.