FASD Metis Settlement Newsletters

---

When a child is living with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), school can be both a place of opportunity and a source of daily struggle. FASD is a lifelong brain-based disability, and while it isn’t always visible, it deeply impacts how a child learns, processes information, and responds to their environment.

For many students with FASD, the school day is full of hidden challenges. They may:

• Know something one day and not recall it the next — not because they weren’t paying attention, but because their brain processes information differently.
• Struggle with multi-step directions or abstract concepts like time and money.
• Speak well but have trouble understanding what’s being asked of them.
• Feel overwhelmed by busy classrooms, transitions, or sudden changes in routine.
• Want to succeed, but get mislabeled as “defiant” or “distracted” when their brains simply need a different approach.
   

These children are not trying to be difficult — they are trying to navigate a world that often isn’t designed with their brains in mind. When educators, parents, and support teams understand FASD, everything changes.

Support for students with FASD doesn’t come from doing more of the same. It comes from doing things differently:

• Breaking things down into smaller, clearer steps so instructions feel doable.
• Creating structure and predictability, which builds safety and reduces anxiety.
• Using visual cues and hands-on learning, instead of relying only on verbal explanations.
• Building in extra processing time, so students aren’t rushed to “keep up.”
• Celebrating strengths, like creativity, kindness, or unique problem-solving abilities, rather than focusing only on what’s hard.
   

When adults adjust their expectations and strategies, students with FASD can flourish. They may not learn in a “typical” way — but they absolutely can learn, grow, and contribute in powerful ways when given the right support.

FASD often goes unrecognized in schools, which can lead to frustration for both students and educators. By shifting the lens from “won’t” to “can’t yet — and here’s how we can help”, we create learning spaces where students with FASD are seen, understood, and supported to reach their potential.

This kind of awareness doesn’t just change a child’s school experience — it can change their entire life trajectory.

This nourishing, alcohol-free drink combines crisp apple cider with warm spices and a little fizz for a seasonal treat that feels special — without any ingredients to worry about during pregnancy.

• 1 cup pasteurized apple cider (important for pregnancy safety)
   
• ½ cup sparkling water or ginger ale (caffeine-free, alcohol-free)
   
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (helps with nausea and balances sweetness)
   
• A small pinch of ground cinnamon
   
• A small pinch of ground nutmeg (optional — stick to a light sprinkle)
   
• Apple slice or cinnamon stick for garnish
   

1. In a small pitcher or shaker, combine the apple cider, lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir or shake well to blend.
    
2. Pour into a glass with or without ice, depending on preference.
    
3. Top with sparkling water or ginger ale for a gentle fizz.
    
4. Garnish with an apple slice or cinnamon stick for a festive touch.
    

✅ No alcohol

✅ Pasteurized cider (safer than unpasteurized versions)

🍋 Lemon juice can help ease mild nausea and cut through sweetness.

✨ Spices add cozy flavor without overwhelming the senses.

💧 Light and hydrating, great for fall events or just relaxing at home.

Loud noises, sudden scares, sugar highs, bright lights, and unpredictable social interactions can quickly become overwhelming.

The good news? A few thoughtful adjustments can make the night smoother for everyone — without adding a ton of extra work.

• 🏠 Keep it short and flexible. Trick-or-treating doesn’t have to last hours. For some kids, visiting just a few trusted neighbors or attending a small community event is plenty.
   
• 👕 Choose comfortable costumes. Avoid scratchy fabrics, masks that block vision, or anything that might feel restrictive. Sometimes a favorite hoodie with themed accessories works better than a full costume.
   
• 🕯 Visit earlier in the evening. Before it gets dark and crowded, streets are quieter and calmer — a great time for kids who do better with less stimulation.
   
• 🍭 Set candy expectations ahead of time. Talk through what to expect, how much candy they’ll collect or eat, and keep backup snacks on hand for kids with dietary needs.
   
• 🧠 Have a clear “plan B.” If your child needs a break, know where you can go — even if that’s just sitting in the car for a few minutes or heading home early.
   
• 🫶 Prep neighbors or friends you trust. A quick heads-up can make their interactions more understanding and relaxed.

Halloween doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. With a little flexibility and understanding, families impacted by FASD can create safe, joyful traditions that work for them and communities can play a real part in making that possible.