Parenting a FASD Toddler
The main developmental tasks for a toddler are:
– to learn he is a separate person
– to learn his body is his own
– to learn his ideas and feelings have value
Life becomes increasingly frustrating for the toddler as the demands and expectations placed on him increase. He will discover that he is unable to do many of the things he wants to do himself eg. feed, dress himself, etc.)
Guidelines for toddlers with FASD
- consistency, routine and help remain paramount
- caregiving can begin to be shared by a few others
- daycare can provide relief
- power struggles begin to emerge (the “terrible two’s”)
- normal household expectations can be overwhelming(eg. clean the playroom)
- FASD toddler behaviour problems begin to be a major source of conflict with siblings
- your anger and lectures are useless management tools
- natural and logical consequences have limited success
- gear all opportunities for success
- structure, routine, consistency & repetition are key tools
- works best if FASD child is the youngest in the home