For caregivers, parents, grandparents and whānau who have completed our course 'Life with FASD 1: Understand and Connect with Aroha', we have developed a new, two-day follow-on training.

This will enable a deeper dive for caregivers to understand more about the brain-based symptoms of FASD and learn further strategies to support the whole whānau.

Life with FASD 2: need to know 

• The training runs over two days: Monday and Tuesday 11/12 May.
• It will happen face-to-face in Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland (venue TBC)
• You'll need to attend both days.
• It will run from 9.30am to 2.30pm each day.
• Morning tea and lunch is provided each day.

What's it about? 

LWF2 is an evidence-based training developed for caregivers to extend their knowledge about FASD, learn further strategies, and network with (or extend connections with) others who have a member of their family with FASD. 

The overarching aim of the course is to help whānau understand the concept of unreasonable demands for people with FASD – and how everyday situations often demand too much, too quickly.  

Objectives

By the end of the course, participants will have explored:

1. Understanding the brain and body connection

Deepen understanding of PAE (prenatal alcohol exposure) and its impacts on the structure and function of the brain and nervous system, and explain their how these impacts influence day‑to‑day behaviour.

2. Changing our lens

Apply a brain-based, FASD‑informed lens to reframe behaviour from 'won’t' to 'can’t yet', recognising primary symptoms rather than assuming intentional misconduct.

3. Using tools to maintain connection

Use practical, brain‑based strategies that support co‑regulation, reduce overwhelm, and help individuals with FASD remain connected, calm, and supported.

4. Tailoring individual plans and approaches

Create and tailor support plans that reflect the individual’s unique neurodevelopmental profile, strengths, sensory needs and lagging skills.

5. Deepening our understanding of our role

Reflect on how our expectations, communication style, and environment to support success for individuals with FASD, and identify ways to become consistent, predictable, and regulated whānau / caregivers.

Facilitators 

FASD-CAN Navigators Anna Gundesen (Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland) and Ruruhana Brownie (Te Tai Tokerau / Northland) bring their lived experience of family members with FASD to this course, alongside their sound knowledge-base and training in FASD and developmental trauma. 

HOW TO REGISTER

Click here to fill out an expression of interest form for LWF2 training in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland.

Once you've filled in the form and sent it, you'll be contacted by our training administrator Paige to go through your requirements and receive more info about the training.

Join us!

Please consider becoming a member of FASD-CAN! It's free, with no obligation on your part – if you are a caregiver / parent, you'll receive a free hardcopy of our Aotearoa-based FASD handbook and a monthly newsletter which will give you priority notifications of upcoming webinars and other training.

Click here to join FASD-CAN – we'd love to have you on board!