We all have a role to play in supporting/preventing FASD. It's up to all of us to support healthy pregnancies.

As we mark FASD Awareness Month, we are thrilled to share a project that holds a special place in our hearts. A small group of young adults, collectively, with lived experiences of family disruptions, grief, loss, trauma, FASD, learning disabilities, ADHD, anxiety, domestic violence, and other adverse childhood experiences, came together to form new connections and explore hidden talents. What emerged from this collaboration is nothing short of magical in our humble view. With the incredible support of CCMA award-winning artist Jamie Warren—who also happens to be Angela's husband—we created a powerful and inspirational song, Dusty Road to Home.

Please check out our website for the videos and ways you can help share and spread this important message.

In today's episode of The Power of Kitchen Table Conversations: Making a Difference in Prenatal Health, we'll explore the critical and often overlooked issue of alcohol use during pregnancy.

Despite clear evidence showing that no amount of alcohol is safe, conflicting messages from the media and medical field continue to confuse expectant mothers. We'll share personal stories, like that of my niece, who made the informed decision to go alcohol-free during her pregnancy, inspired by years of family discussions.

This episode highlights the importance of honest, compassionate conversations in preventing prenatal alcohol exposure and ensuring the healthiest start for the next generation.

RESOURCES TO LEARN MORE:

• CanFASD Journal on Developmental Disabilities | Are Rural and Urban Ontario Health Care Professionals Aware of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder? A Secondary Data Analysis of the Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Survey for Health Professionals (PDF)
• Today.com | Mandy Moore compares giving birth to 'acid trip'
• CanFASD | Reporting on Alcohol Use During Pregnancy and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (PDF)
• CanFASD | Breastfeeding and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (PDF)
• US News | Drinking Among Pregnant Women Up in U.S.
• CEWH.com | Why do girls and women drink alcohol during pregnancy? (PDF)

Please share this podcast with those in your circle and community who would benefit from these important Kitchen Table Conversations. Your support means the world to us.

There is compelling evidence that effective learning is deeply tied to human connection, focused attention, and the internalization of knowledge—areas where technology, especially AI, falls short.

As parents and caregivers, it’s important to consider these findings when managing technology use at home. Technology for some can be a game changer and there are so many obvious benefits. However, deeper, long lasting and foundational learning develops over time and requires a few things that technology cannot provide. Listen in to learn more and check out the resources below for further learning. (The irony is not lost on me with that last suggestion!!)

RESOURCES TO LEARN MORE:

• Psychology Today | 5 Ways to Help Your Brain Learn Better
• My Health Alberta | Cutting Back on Your Child's Screen Time: Care Instructions
• Mayo Clinic | Screen time and children: How to guide your child

Please share this podcast with those in your circle and community who would benefit from these important Kitchen Table Conversations. Your support means the world to us.