FASD & Trauma: Understanding the Root of Big Behaviors

Parenting kids who have experienced trauma or live with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) comes with unique challenges. In this episode, Meredith sits down with Barb Clark, Director of Training at Families Rising, to discuss parenting strategies that work, the power of connection, and how understanding brain-based differences can transform the way we support kids. With humor and real-life insights, Barb shares her journey as a parent to five adult children, including those affected by prenatal alcohol and drug exposure. She also highlights the most common misconceptions about FASD, why traditional parenting strategies often fail, and how professionals—caregivers, therapists, social workers, and law enforcement—can better support impacted individuals.Barb is a nationally recognized trainer and the head coach of the FASD Caregiver Kickstart Program, an international initiative helping families navigate the challenges of FASD. If you’ve ever felt stuck, frustrated, or unsure how to help a child struggling with big behaviors, this episode is for you.Producer: Zach LuceroMarketing: Sydney JonesSocial: Griffin ShumanBooking: Gretchen Schrock📚 Resources Mentioned:Families Rising (Training, Resources, and Support): www.wearefamiliesrising.orgFASD Training Webinar Series by Barb Clark: https://wearefamiliesrising.org/training-series/fetal-alcohol-spectrum-disorders-training-series-webinar/FASD Success Caregiver Kickstart Program: https://www.fasdsuccess.comFASD United (State Resource Directory): https://www.fasdunited.orgReConference (Real Encouragement for Families): https://www.realencouragement.orgFaithBridge Foster Care (Past Sessions by Barb): https://faithbridgeu.com/Join the Notification List for Barb’s Upcoming Book: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScESI1VSx_QOLu9GhKbskHHkO-BMvoJUy-nVgPbOfaTP5xPCg/viewform🔗 Follow Families Rising:• Website: https://wearefamiliesrising.org• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/58249251/• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearefamiliesrising• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wearefamiliesrising• Twitter: https://x.com/familiesrising💬 Join the conversation! What’s one takeaway from this episode that stuck with you? Drop a comment or send us a message.