Behavior Management

Every child with an FASD is unique, so interventions and accomodations should be individualized to meet each child’s special needs. Below are some general guidelines for parents and professionals to consider.

1. Be Consistent.
It is really important for the caregivers to be in agreement about the rules and to consistently enforce them. It is also helpful if all the caregivers use the same words or phrases to give directions.

2. Keep it Simple!
People with an FASD often learn the best in a simple environment with few distractions. They also often learn best with simple, concise instructions.

3. Structure, Structure, Structure!
Structure helps people with an FASD make sense out of the world. So, it is important for the caregivers to provide as much structure in their daily schedule as possible. Using a picture schedule to help children with an FASD understand the daily schedule is also very helpful. Information on how to make a daily schedule may be found here.

4. Be Specific
Often people with an FASD are literal thinkers. It is important for the caregivers to be very specific about what is expected in concrete terms.  Say exactly what you mean! Give directions step by step. Break larger tasks into smaller tasks.

5. Provide Supervision
People with an FASD can sometimes  accidentally get into trouble because they do not always anticipate the consequences of their actions. It is important to provide adequate supervision to assure that they stay safe.

Read more about FASD: NOFAS Fact Sheet: FASD throughout the lifespan