Where could you obtain credentials to be able to publicly speak about Fetal Alcohol Syndrome?

Question

I have several younger adopted siblings with FAS. My mother had been speaking about FAS to the school in which my siblings attend. Recently they told her that she can no longer attend the teacher meetings because she doesn't have "credentials." I was wondering if there are any kind of classes or organizations one could join in order to speak publicly on the issues. I guess having 10 years experience as a mother with FAS affected children isn't good enough.

Answer 1

The school is just being idiotic---dependign on the exact topic of the talk-you usually don't need credentials-

Parents are often teh best source of info-people (and parnets) who live with all conditions speak out to educate others---as long as you don't misrepresent yourself-its fine-

She can't give a speech about the technical medical aspects-but she can speak about basic info on teh casue and consequences and specifically her experiences-

Is there an FAS society-can she get formally recognized by them as an advocate?

Answer 2

She's probably not a staff member and that's a polite way of excusing her from the meeting.  They may have heard enough about FAS to benefit them and your siblings.  To speak publicly on a regular basis about such a topic, it is good to have a degree in public health or health education.

Answer 3

That is a shame, sometimes parents are the best people to talk about a situation, they can give a different view than a 'professional'.  It really sounds like an excuse.  But to answer your question, my guess as far as credentials is a Masters degree in special education or psychology, with intensive study into the subject of FAS.  The thing is FAS is a medical condition, so if they wanted to be really snippy, they could ask a pediatrician to come in.