NEW BEGINNINGS FETAL ALCOHOL SPECTRUM DISORDER (FASD) Program

The New Beginnings FASD Program provides support to women and their families in preparing for healthy pregnancies, advocates for alcohol-free pregnancies, delivers presentations to create awareness about the effects of alcohol consumption during pregnancy, and works to support individuals and families affected by FASD by navigating the clinical services or helping to obtain a diagnosis.

The New Beginnings FASD Program is available for families with children up to 12 years of age, however, the program does assist families with children up to the age of 18 and plans to expand services to provide FASD diagnostic assessment services for the adult population where there are existing gaps at Noojmowin Teg Health Centre.

FASD is a diagnostic term that encompasses all disabilities caused by prenatal exposure to alcohol. The exposures may lead to lifelong challenges such as:

  • Irreversible brain and neurological damage
  • Developmental dysmaturity
  • Memory deficits
  • Impulsivity
  • Poor judgment
  • Listening and learning difficulties

Services that can be offered through the New Beginnings FASD Program include:

  • Parenting strategies for individuals and/or groups and Parent seminars
  • Facilitate access to traditional workshops
  • FASD talking circles and support groups
  • Workshops such as baby moss bag making, hand drum making and teachings

For information on Noojmowin Teg Health Centre’s New Beginnings FASD Program and its services,
please call 705-368-0083.