FETAL ALCOHOL SPECTRUM DISORDERS florida resource guide

SECTION 5Effects of PrenatalAlcohol Exposure andIntervention Strategies▪ Provide an environment that feels safe and reduces the defensiveresponses to incoming stimuli. Babies with FAS may need to beswaddled or soothed by dim lighting and may be most receptive tonew stimuli (textures, sounds) if they are introduced slowly over time.▪ Some infants cannot tolerate eye contact and need to be heldfacing away. Do not force eye contact if the baby is showingdefensive responses.▪ Limit the number of caregivers who interact with the baby. Thiswill promote the child’s ability to learn the actions and understandthe communication style of the primary caregiver.▪ Promote attachment and bonding with sensitive caregiving byprimary caregivers. Infants with FAS are at risk for attachmentproblems.▪ Maintain a calm and quiet environment.▪ Limit the number & type of objects hanging from the ceiling or walls.▪ Use calm colors on the walls, such as pastel blue, light green, orpale yellow; avoid orange or bright red.▪ Learn to read the child’s cues so that he does not go over the edge… children can be very difficult to calm and soothe when they“lose it.”▪ Pacifiers can help a child self soothe.At this stage ofdevelopment,children generallybegin to get a senseof limits, to establisha foundation forbeing organizedand developing goodself-esteem.— Harwood &Kleinfeld, 2002Toddlers with FAS can be quite delightful. They are small, almost elflikein appearance, and have an enthusiasm for new experiences. It isduring this period that caregivers can teach important skills needed toensure maximum success.The following early intervention strategies will help caregivers oftoddlers with FASD:▪ Maintain a calm and quiet environment.▪ Limit the number and type of objects hanging from the ceiling orwalls.▪ Use calm colors on the walls.▪ Assist children in staying focused.▪ Define spaces for play and eating.▪ Provide routine quiet activities to aid a child in predicting eventsand staying organized.▪ Establish rules for putting away items to help with transition andclosure.▪ Sing jingles about specific activities to facilitate a child’s ability toremember what to do next.38 FETAL ALCOHOL SPECTRUM DISORDERS florida resource guide