Dr Carolyn Blackburn on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder

Dr Carolyn Blackburn has worked in childcare and education for 20 years and has established a reputation for supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities. She was the Project Lead for two projects investigating the educational implications and practitioner knowledge of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). Her work for one of these projects won the Nursery World Editor’s Choice Award and she is the lead author of the first British text on Educating Children with FASD.

In this insightful interview, Dr Blackburn shares crucial insights into FASD, a condition many early years professionals may have limited knowledge about but which significantly impacts children’s development. She explains how alcohol crosses the placenta during pregnancy, affecting children’s ability to reach developmental milestones, and offers practical strategies for supporting affected children in early years settings.

In this episode you’ll:

• Discover what FASD is, how it’s diagnosed, and why it’s often confused with other conditions like ADHD or autism
• Learn why the UK’s high prevalence of binge drinking among women of childbearing age creates particular concerns for early years practitioners
• Understand the specific environmental factors that can trigger unwanted behaviours in children with FASD, including bright lights, sudden noises, and certain smells
• Find out how to adapt your setting to create the calm, structured environment these children need, including providing sensory breaks and personal space
• Explore effective ways to work with families who may be struggling with complex emotions around their child’s condition, especially during transitions and holiday periods

Watch this essential episode to gain the understanding and practical strategies you need to effectively support children with FASD in your setting, creating an environment where they can thrive despite their unique challenges.

This episode was originally published on 14th September 2018.

Episode Links:

You can find Dr Carolyn Blackburn’s books on the Routledge website here: https://www.routledge.com/Developing-Inclusive-Practice-for-Young-Children-with-Fetal-Alcohol-Spectrum-Disorders-A-Framework-of-Knowledge-and-Understanding-for-the-Ea/Blackburn/p/book/9781138839328

or on Amazon here: http://amzn.to/2ypLfRK

The FASD Alliance website is: fasd-uk.net/

European FASD Alliance: eufasd.org/

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Society for British Columbia asantecentre.org