Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) and Digital Dangers: A Self-Advocate’s Tips on Staying Safe
Live Virtual Zoom Training
Sponsored by The Florida Center and the State of Florida, Department of Health
Date: Friday, December 11, 2026
Time: 11:00-12:30pm EST ( 10-11:30pm CST, 9-10:30am MST, 8-9:30am PST)
Cost: FREE
DESCRIPTION:
Join Alex, a young adult and self-advocate with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), and his mother, Pam, as they share their experiences navigating digital dangers. From pornography and online grooming to catfishing and cyberbullying, these risks can affect any young person but may leave individuals with FASD especially vulnerable.
Through honest stories of successes, heartbreaking challenges, and lessons learned, Alex and Pam will explore what happens when parental controls and passwords fail to protect. They’ll share practical tips, strategies that have worked, and approaches they’re still exploring to help families navigate an increasingly digital world.
The Florida Center for Early Childhood operates three FASD Diagnostic Clinics in Florida, located in Sarasota, Orlando and Pensacola.
Takeaways:
- Identify at least three digital risks that may increase vulnerability among individuals with FASD, including online grooming, exploitation, catfishing, and cyberbullying.
- Explain how brain-based differences associated with FASD may affect judgment, impulse control, and recognition of online threats, contributing to increased vulnerability in digital environments.
- Identify at least three practical strategies to help individuals with FASD and their families improve online safety, reduce digital risks, and respond to situations where traditional parental controls may be ineffective.
TRAINERS:
Alex Carver
FASD Self-Advocate
Alex Carver is a 22-year-old FASD Warrior. Adopted from Russia at 13 months old, Alex has spent hundreds of hours in occupational, speech, music, and equine therapy. He recently graduated from high school and is learning how to drive. He’s also working with Vocational Rehab to find a job he will enjoy. He is witty, charming, and a bit mischievous. He lives at home with his Mom, Dad, Cat, Dog and Turtle in sunny Florida. Getting along with this crazy over-protective parents isn’t always easy, but they all love each other deeply.
Pam Carver
FASD Caregiver, Intake Coordinator at The Florida Center
Pam’s background is in business management, but she was woefully unprepared for her FASD journey. Her adopted son Alex was diagnosed with FAS at age 3. Now he’s 21 years old. Pam has spent countless hours learning about FASD and helping Alex live his best life. Pam is the Intake Coordinator for our FASD Clinic’s Sarasota Office. When not helping families and advocating for Alex, Pam enjoys gardening and drinking coffee.
Continuing Education:
1.5 CEs approved through Florida CEBroker for LCSW, LMHC, LMFT, and CMSW.
This training is recognized by The Florida Certification Board in the areas of child welfare and mental health.