Signs of fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) may appear as specific types of problems at different times throughout a child’s life. Parents who suspect their child has FAS should contact their pediatrician. Early diagnosis can help reduce long-term difficulties children with FAS may face.

Signs of FAS (or another fetal alcohol spectrum disorder) that may be noticeable in early childhood include:

• Poor memory capability
  
  
• Hyperactivity (e.g., being easily distracted)
  
  
• Lack of fear (e.g., does not recognize signs of danger)
  
  
• No sense of boundaries (e.g., may appear much too friendly with strangers)
  
  
• Naivety (e.g., too trusting, difficulty understanding the motives of others)
  
  
• Need for excessive physical contact

Signs of fetal alcohol exposure that may be noticeable in middle childhood include:

• Short attention span
  
  
• Motor skill problems (e.g., poor hand-eye coordination)
  
  
• Difficulty reading
  
  
• Falling behind in schoolwork
  
  
• Behavior problems (e.g., temper tantrums, defiance, lying, stealing)
  
  
• Social difficulties (e.g., immaturity, over friendliness, difficulty with life skills and changes in routine)
  
  
• Low self-esteem (as a result of recognizing they are different from their peers)