Jul 31

Growing with Care: FASD in Early Learning Environments

This training introduces participants to Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) and its complex effects on young children. Through real-life examples and practical strategies, we’ll explore how FASD impacts learning, behavior, and social-emotional development and how early childhood environments can be adapted to better meet the needs of affected children. With a strong focus on understanding, compassion, and inclusion, this session empowers participants to shift from managing behaviors to supporting brain-based needs. 2 CEs, 2.5 CLEs

Virtual location

You will receive a confirmation email with a URL.

Jul 31, 2025 01:00pm ET - Jul 31, 2025 03:00pm ET

Add to Google · Outlook Web · Outlook Mobile · Yahoo · iCal

Free

Why It Matters:

FASD is often misunderstood, yet it affects more children than many other developmental disorders. In early learning settings, children with FASD may struggle with behaviors that are misinterpreted as oppositional or inattentive, when in reality they are signals of an underlying brain-based disability. By gaining a deeper understanding and adopting proven strategies, professionals can improve classroom dynamics, build stronger relationships, and promote better long-term outcomes for children with FASD. Creating environments that work with a child’s brain rather than against it is not only possible, it’s essential.

TAKEAWAYS:

A clear understanding of what FASD is and how it develops
Insight into the unique ways FASD may present in toddlers and preschoolers
Tools for recognizing and responding to the learning, sensory, and social-emotional needs of children with FASD
Strategies for creating predictable, trauma-informed environments that reduce triggers and support regulation
Ways to engage families and collaborate across systems for better outcomes

Continuing Education:

2 CEs approved by the Florida Board of CSW, MFT, and MHC for LCSW, LMFT, LMHC and Certified Master Social Workers through CEBrokers.

PRESENTERS:

Crissa Harman, LMHC

Manager of FASD Services - Sarasota

Crissa is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and the Manager of Sarasota Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) Services. A Sarasota native, Crissa has 13 years of experience working with children and families. She has extensive expertise in navigating systems, such as criminal justice and child welfare. Crissa has completed the Training on the FASCETS Neurobehavioral Model and is trained in several evidence-based curriculums including Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), Circle of Security Parenting, and Child-Parent Psychotherapy.

Jenn Werden, MSW

FASD Clinic Lead - Pensacola

Jenn is a mom to four children, including one child living with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, the most severe on the FASD spectrum. She serves as the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Clinic Lead in the Panhandle. Since joining The Florida Center's FASD team, she has aided in identifying and providing opportunities to expand the supports offered to families impacted by FASD, including educating caregivers in advocating for their student's needs, connecting with state and federal legislators to garner support for FASD initiatives in Florida and beyond as well as participating in specialty workgroups with FASD United, the national voice on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders. Jenn has a bachelor's and master's degree in Social Work from Florida State University. She represents Circuit 14 as a board member for Florida FAPA (Florida Foster/Adoptive Parent Association). Jenn is a Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) practitioner and has participated in trainings such as the FASCETS Neurobehavioral Model, Circle of Security Parenting, and countless FASD trainings.