Definition
Academic achievement includes skills in reading, mathematics, and/or literacy (including written expression and spelling).
How might the person with FASD be affected
Poor performance at school and in external tests compared to other children, even if IQ is normal
Not achieving at the same level as other children of the same age
May have specific learning problems e.g. with maths (doesn't understand the abstract concepts) doesn't understand the concept and value of money
Doesn't understand time and hence may not get to school or work on time
Can do the activity e.g. learning new word in spelling or reading today, but not tomorrow
Tips for managing these difficulties
Use explicit teaching methods - actively involving them in the learning process and have realistic goals
Teach one step/or part of an activity or lesson at a time
Use a digital watch/clock rather than watch/clock with face and hands
For a teenager or adult with a mobile phone, program alarms and information on the next activity or appointment, a reminder that they need to go to the bus stop or buy their food, pay their electricity account
Will require a lot of repetition to master tasks – lots of patience from the person helping e.g. parent, teacher. Praise and acknowledge when they achieve the goal