Characteristics of someone with FASD
No two children with FASD are exactly alike, either behaviourally or physically.
Some of the co-occurring, behavioural, social and learning characteristics may include:
–       Attention, concentration  or hyperactivity impairments. 
–       Academic issues, including specific deficits in mathematics & memory skills. 
–       Speech and language deficits e.g. great expressive but poorer receptive language. 
–       Short term or working memory issues
–       Adaptive functioning impairments that grows more recognisable with age. 
–       Emotional regulation difficulties
–       Social or relationship challenges including difficulty making or sustaining friendships, despite being sociable.
–       Sensory impairments such as vision or hearing.
–       Sensory sensitivities. 
–       Tendency to be oppositional or defensive when requests are made.
–       Inconsistent performance – can do something one day but cannot the next.
–       Lack of abstract reasoning, cause & effect logic, fails to generalise
–       Poor sense of self and issues with theory of mind.

Lifelong Impacts 
Defensive behaviours develop when there is a poor fit between the person with FASD and their world.   This is why getting an early diagnosis is very important as behaviours can be lessened or prevented with diagnosis and appropriate support and strategies.  There can be issues with disrupted school experiences, mental health, legal issues, difficulties with independence and employment if a young person’s support needs are not being understood and met.  

Skills & Qualities
One of the important things to remember is that people diagnosed with FASD also have many strengths and talents so it is important to find out what the person does well and encourage them in it. Some common personal and skill areas include:

• Caring,
• Articulate,
• Friendly,
• Musical,
• Artistic,
• Creative,
• Practical,
• Athletic,
• Animal skills,
• Nature Skills etc. 

We should not forget that many people with FASD are in professional careers, have attended university and are raising their own children.  

Which it is why it is important that early interventions and support can lead to better life outcomes.