Growing problem of FAS in schools

Children are at risk of health and behaviour problems if pregnant women drink.

With bylaws around alcohol in Whangarei up for debate, the Northern Advocate is talking to experts who deal with the impact of alcohol daily. While they tell us what they think, you can have your say too. Public submissions are open for the Whangarei District Council draft local alcohol policy until July 10. For details on how to make a submission visit www.wdc.govt.nz

Children suffering from foetal alcohol syndrome can be highly explosive, reactionary and verbally abuse others in the classroom, according to a Northland principal.

Sally Wilson, principal of Raurimu Primary School in Whangarei, said that foetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is a growing problem in schools.

Ms Wilson said as children move into the school system, FAS becomes more developed as difficulties with memory lead into learning and behavioural problems. And the problems don't stop there: "Once you get to intermediate the children are physically stronger, highly disruptive and have mental delays," Ms Wilson said.

Ms Wilson believes that FAS is a lifelong disability that can be likened to a head injury in the developing foetus, and which includes secondary disabilities.

These problems can easily lead into offending, as the children are "easily influenced by peers, don't learn from mistakes and fail to comprehend impact of the offence on their self and others".

Receiving advice from FAS expert Valerie McGinn has helped the school work with diagnosed students and learn about the impact of FAS on the community. Dr McGinn said that 90 per cent of people diagnosed with FAS have mental health problems, 60 per cent have trouble with the law and 50 per cent display inappropriate sexual behaviour.

Ms Wilson attributes the easy access to alcohol in the community as part of the problem.

"It's as accessible as milk and bread, which means there is a greater temptation; it becomes a regular thing in your diet, and a regular thing in the community on a regular basis. Young women who do not know they are yet pregnant are partaking in alcohol and then become a desperate partner in a relationship with the school when their children face stand downs and exclusions," Ms Wilson said.

In light of the Local Alcohol Policy draft, Ms Wilson said the community needs more measures around safe times to consume alcohol. "We need to educate our young girls about the effects of what alcohol can do."

-Tomorrow - Northland specialist talks addiction