FASD-CAN has recently launched a brand-new desktop resource especially for educators. The FASD Learning Support Tool is a downloadable, interactive, NZ-specific digital tool which is a collection of the best resources available for learning support staff and kaiako. 

Who is it for?

The tool is intended to be of use primarily by learning support staff – RTLBs, SENCOs and Learning Support Coordinators – but also by teachers seeking information on students with FASD. 

Why was it developed?

At FASD-CAN we believe understanding the brain of those with FASD and making accommodations for their brain differences is critical to their inclusive education. The differences seen in FASD are unique for each child.

Whilst some aspects overlap with other neurodiversities, FASD is often not understood or recognised (it's often referred to as the ‘hidden disability’) and currently, students with FASD frequently struggle within the education system. Evidence shows that getting through school can be a critical step for those with FASD; if they are excluded, their future options can go downhill rapidly.

The internet has an enormous array of fantastic – and less fantastic – resources on FASD and education. We are confident that this tool collates the best resources in one place; it also gives a New Zealand specific lens to the resources and to make it easy to access information on a permanent downloadable desktop resource.

Who made it and what is it based on?

The tool was developed between FASD-CAN and Manawanui RTLB (Resource Teacher; Learning and Behaviour) Cluster 10, with RTLB Trish Porter leading the development. The tool also benefited from the digital tech skills of Vicki Wilson and input from the FASD-CAN education sub-committee.

The resource follows the pathway of He Pikoura, the framework used in Aotearoa by learning support practitioners to collaboratively work with students and their whānau. 

We have added resources at each step in the He Pikorua sequence to support effective interventions for students with FASD and those who have behavioural symptoms displaying traits of FASD. 

How do you use it?

Download the resource by clicking here or on the picture below. Get familiar with it, then keep on your computer desktop to access whenever you need help.

We hope this resource will help those professionals who support and educate children with FASD to understand their presentation.