The disorder is caused by pregnant mothers consuming large amounts of alcohol regularly – and can have lasting cognitive and physical affects on the child.

Children born with FASD can have distinctive facial features and structure abnormalities.

Colleen Beale, who runs Grandparents Doing It Tough support group, said her primary-school-aged grandson’s impulsive behavior was often mistaken as silliness.

He is living with FASD caused by his mother’s decision to consume drugs and alcohol during pregnancy. 

2013 was a bad year for the family – until they met Tolland Public School teacher Tammy Lawler.

Ms Lawler and Mrs Beale constantly consult with each other to ensure Ms Lawler is providing the child with the support he needs.

“It’s about understanding the medical problems, the impulse control, often people think it is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, but it’s FASD,” Mrs Beale said.

Mrs Beale’s grandson has difficulty learning tasks and understanding chronology.

“He learns a task, forgets it and relearns it,” she said. 

“He needs constant repetition.” 

Mrs Beale said a greater awareness of FASD was needed to ensure children living with the condition got a fair chance in life.

“Otherwise it’s just juvenile justice centre’s and detention,” she said.

Ms Lawler, had never heard of FASD until two years ago. 

She ensures her classroom is accommodating for the child and he is praised for his strengths.

“I make sure he sits with people he gets along with, that the noise level is low and I try not raise my voice. He’s so good at dramatic play and reading. I want him to shine in front of his peers.”

FASD awareness programs will be run for educators on June 2 at 1pm; carers on June 3 at 9.30am and service providers on June 4 at 9.30am at Tolland Community Centre. RSVP to 6923 3888. 

“We won’t give up on them,” Mrs Beale said.