Episode #245 - Advocating for Foster & Adopted Children with FASD

“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11

About 70% of children in the U.S. foster care system have been exposed to alcohol in the womb and, according to FAFASD.org (Families Affected by FASD), 2-5% of babies born in the U.S. have FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder). We can expect similar stats with children adopted internationally. FASD plays a huge roll in the lives of most foster and adoptive families.

JFO Executive Director and podcast host Sandra Flach is mom of 8 children, 5 through adoption including 2 diagnosed FASD. She believes it is vital for foster and adoptive parents to understand trauma and its impact on brain development and behavior—and exposure to alcohol in the womb is a trauma to an unborn baby.

On this week’s episode of our Orphans No More podcast, Sandra shares some FASD facts from the FAFASD website and weaves in personal stories about her family’s adoption journey with FASD kiddos. She discusses why parents must learn everything they can about trauma and FASD (or whatever diagnosis your child has or you suspect they may have).

As parents, we must pay attention to our kids and become experts in advocating for them. When we pray for our children, the Lord will show us what they need and how to parent them. He knows the plans He has for them. Plans to prosper them and give them a good future. Please be sure to subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it on your social media.

Links mentioned in this episode:
FAFASD.org
FASD Success Podcast
FASD Hope Podcast

Positive Adoption Podcast
The Whole House