Our Color Street Spotlight is in observance of September 9th, International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Day. September is Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Awareness month. In many areas of a child’s development, the incorrect diagnosis of a behavioral problem can result in distressing effects. So was the case five years ago for Stylist Jen Keller and her adopted daughter, Emma, before she was properly diagnosed with FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder). FASD is a term used to describe the range of cognitive and behavioral problems of individuals prenatally exposed to alcohol. Many times, FASD can be mistaken for autism, ADHD, or behavioral and mood disorders. Researchers have found that 1 in 20 children in the US has FASD and 1 in 25 children in Canada. Each person with FASD has a singular, unique experience and has individual areas of both strengths and challenges. In order to reach their full potential, they require developmental therapy and treatment tailored to their circumstances. With proper support and early intervention from the Florida Center for Early Childhood Development, Emma and her family were able to begin her journey to curate a life that serves her best. They provided Jen with a team of experts who specialized in diagnosing this kind of disorder and an extensive evaluation that she says “changed the dynamics of my family.” The Florida Center went above and beyond to help Jen find resources and together they created a personalized treatment plan that allowed her family to reclaim each day as a successful one and let Emma flourish beyond her struggles. A huge thank you to Jen Keller for allowing us to share these images of Emma and display the incredibly beautiful treasure that is her personality. Jen’s mani is inspired by Red Shoes Rock, an organization that spreads awareness and offers support to those affected by prenatal alcohol exposure. https://redshoesrock.com/ Jen also found Jeff Noble to be a great resource. Jeff Noble who is based in Canada, is a leader in supporting caregivers of those affected by FASD. His link is below 👇 https://www.fasdsuccess.com/newlettersignup-freebook-1-1-gausa-1?gclid=CjwKCAjwmJeYBhAwEiwAXl