Caring for Children With Prenatal Alcohol Exposure and FASDs in Child Welfare: An Overview

Early identification of prenatal alcohol exposure and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs) is key to reducing the risk of adverse life outcomes. Child welfare professionals can help recognize the signs of prenatal alcohol exposure and support families involved in the child welfare system in accessing tailored services. This overview introduces the resources featured in the Caring for Children with Prenatal Alcohol Exposure and FASDs in Child Welfare collection. The resources include practice guides, tip sheets, and e-learning modules organized around a family-focused framework to help professionals recognize characteristics of FASDs, engage families, coordinate care, and strengthen services. The collection aims to enhance child welfare practice by promoting FASD-informed, family-centered, and strengths-based approaches. It is designed for child welfare professionals, parents, caregivers, and service providers to improve the safety, permanency, and well-being of children with prenatal alcohol exposure and FASDs.