I didn’t always know the term Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder.
I knew my child struggled. I knew she melted down when others didn’t. I knew typical parenting tools seemed to break instead of build. I knew I loved her—and I knew I was exhausted–mentally, physically, and spiritually.
But I didn’t know what I was dealing with, what was driving her behavior, or how to explain to teachers, pastors, or even close friends what was happening in our home. But I desperately wanted to because I WANTED someone to come alongside me so we wouldn’t be alone in this hard place. I was frustrated because I didn’t understand my daughter and my daughter was frustrated because she didn’t understand me.
I certainly didn’t know how much brain and grace were at the heart of the story.
So, What Is FASD?
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a brain-based disorder caused by prenatal alcohol exposure. It impacts memory, self-regulation, cause-and-effect thinking, transitions, and sensory processing, among other functions.
Kids (and adults) with FASD often appear “fine” on the outside, but inside, they face invisible challenges every single day. They may seem defiant, lazy, or uncontrollable—but what they truly need is understanding, support, and connection.
And What Does Faith Have to Do With It?
Everything.
As followers of Jesus, we believe in the dignity and value of every human life. We believe in God’s presence in suffering. We believe in grace for parents who feel at the end of themselves. We believe in hope, not in outcomes, but in Christ.
The Gospel doesn’t erase the hard. But it meets us in it.
When I realized that FASD was affecting my child’s brain, not just her “choices,” it changed everything. But when I remembered that God still held our family, still had a plan, and still called me to parent with mercy and truth? That changed me.
You’re Not Alone
Whether you’re a mom deep in the trenches, a therapist hungry for better tools, or a pastor wondering how to serve the families in your congregation—you belong here.
This site was created to offer:
- Trauma-informed, faith-based tools
- Training for churches and professionals
- Resources for weary but faithful parents
- Hope that honors both the science of the brain and the beauty of the Gospel
Some Encouragement for the Weary
Parenting a child with FASD or trauma isn’t just hard—it’s holy. But some days, that truth feels far away.
There are moments when your child’s behavior seems too big, your patience feels too small, and you wonder if you’re even making a difference. I’ve been there too. And in those moments, I’ve needed something short and true to hold onto.
That’s why I created this printable Scripture card based on Psalm 139:14:
“You are fearfully and wonderfully made.”
It’s a truth for your child—but also for you. You are fearfully and wonderfully made. You were chosen for this work. You’re not invisible. And your child’s value doesn’t change based on their behavior, diagnosis, or regulation level.
Feel free to grab your free copy of this verse and find a special spot to tape or hang it somewhere visible. As you meditate on each word, may it encourage your heart!
The Connected Table 
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