Getting a FASD diagnosis

[bunting1000]

Hi,
We suspect our 7 year old adopted son may have FASD- birth mums alcohol consumption in pregnancy is unknown but he shows a lot of the characteristics and the difference between him and other children his age seem to be getting more noticeable as he gets older. So we are wondering whether now is the right time to pursue a diagnosis. Wondered if anyone had any advice on how to do this/the process etc? Thanks!

It can be a pretty long process. I would start the ball rolling by visiting your GP and asking them to refer to a Paediatrician. Here, we have Specialist Neuropaeds. They can do as assessment, but also refer on to SLT, OT and CAMHS. It's a total drag, as each service assesses separately, but it's necessary to get any actual support. School need to do an Ed Psych referral separately.

About whether it's a good time. As it takes so long, I'd say it's worth starting things now, as it could take a good 18 months or so. You don't want to wait until things are really hard until you start trying to get support. There's no test for FASD, it's done by symptoms, ruling other stuff out and being able to prove alcohol consumption of BM.

Will need too get appointment 1st too Genetic Clinic via GP or Paediatrician too rule out any other genetic profile issue , Child for example went through process recently had several chromosome issues unrelated too FASD . NHS fas fasd clinic state that child has to have a referral too above before they can make an assessment , Can Google clinic for more details .
Would in meantime ask advice from Schools Statutory Community disability team. , or local SEND community team, explain issues and request child be places on a Pathway plan assessment , this will bring in support OT SIDs etc at the end of assessment child may be placed on EHCP if necessary. Also can include training for yourselves. After Adoption support is also available for children suspected of long term issues, see www.first4adoption.org click support on site.

Kindest Reagards