Sponsored by The Florida Center for Early Childhood and the State of Florida, Department of Health

FASD and Digital Dangers: A Self-Advocate's Tips on Staying Safe

Join Alex, a young adult with FASD, and his mother, Pam, as they share experiences with pornography, online grooming, catfishing, and cyberbullying. These risks can leave individuals with FASD especially vulnerable. Through successes, challenges, and lessons learned, they discuss when parental controls fail and share practical tips and strategies for families. 1.5 CEs approved through Florida CE Broker. Recognized by the Florida Certification Board for child welfare and mental health. This training is sponsored by The Florida Center and The State of Florida, Department of Health.

Friday, December 11, 2026

Time: 11:00 A.M. - 12:30 P.M. EST

(10-11:30am CST, 9-10:30am MST, 8-9:30am PST)

Cost: FREE

Join Alex, a young adult and self-advocate with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FAS), and his mother, Pam, as they share their experiences navigating digital dangers. From pornography and online grooming to catfishing and cyberbullying, these risks can affect any young person but may leave individuals with FASD especially vulnerable. Through honest stories of successes, heartbreaking challenges, and lessons learned, they will explore what happens when parental controls and passwords fail to protect. They'll share practical tips, strategies that have worked, and approaches they're still exploring to help families navigate an increasingly digital world.

TAKEAWAYS:

Identify at least three digital risks that may increase vulnerability among individuals with FASD, including online grooming, exploitation, catfishing, and cyberbullying.
Explain how brain-based differences associated with FASD may affect judgment, impulse control, and recognition of online threats, contributing to increased vulnerability in digital environments.
Identify at least three practical strategies to help individuals with FASD and their families improve online safety, reduce digital risks, and respond to situations where traditional parental controls may be ineffective.

Continuing Education:

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

The Florida Certification Board recognizes this presentation in the areas of mental health and child welfare.

PRESENTERS:

Alex Carver,

FASD Self-Advocate

Alex Carver is a 22-year-old FASD Warrior. Adopted from Russia at 13 months old, Alex has spent hundreds of hours in occupational, speech, music, and equine therapy. He recently graduated from high school and is learning how to drive. He’s also working with Vocational Rehab to find a job he will enjoy. He is witty, charming, and a bit mischievous. He lives at home with his Mom, Dad, Cat, Dog and Turtle in sunny Florida. Getting along with his over-protective parents isn’t always easy, but they all love each other deeply.

Pam Carver,

FASD Caregiver

Intake Coordinator at The Florida Center

Pam’s background is in business management, but she was woefully unprepared for her FASD journey. Her adopted son Alex was diagnosed with FAS at age 3. Now he’s 22 years old. Pam has spent countless hours learning about FASD and helping Alex live his best life. Pam is the Intake Coordinator for our FASD Clinic’s Sarasota Office. When not helping families and advocating for Alex, Pam enjoys gardening and drinking coffee.

This free training is offered as a part of the FASD Program's grant-funded deliverables and is hosted by The Florida Center Training Institute. Optional Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are available for a separate administrative fee.