FASD-Informed Reduced Smoking Techniques: for service providers working with women who may be FASD affected

What is the FIRST Approach

The acronym (FASD-Informed Reduced Smoking Techniques) reflects our belief that small steps are an effective approach to support a woman smoker’s journey to smoking cessation.

Why we need the FIRST Approach

Whether they know it or not, community service providers are often working with women who may be FASD affected.  This is why AWARE, in partnership with Mothercraft (Breaking the Cycle or BTC) and a Provincial Advisory Committee, developed The FIRST Approach, a training guide focused on the smoking reduction/cessation needs of women who may be FASD affected. The information in The FIRST Approach is also based on the work of many researchers and practitioners who have devoted time and passion to understanding the needs of women who may be FASD affected.  It  builds upon AWARE’s expertise in smoking reduction/cessation strategies for marginalized women and upon BTC’s expertise in specialized skills in relationship building with women/mothers who may be affected by FASD.  The FIRST Approach is based on easy-to-read principles.

Our provincial Advisory Committee included partners from the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Motherisk, Best Start, Sunset Women's Aboriginal Circle, Healthy Generations Family Support Program, and Keystone Child, Youth, and Family Services. The FIRST Approach was funded by the Drugs and Tobacco Initiatives Program, Regions and Programs Branch, Health Canada, Ontario Region.

Who can benefit from the FIRST Approach

The FIRST Approach supports service providers who work with women who may be FASD affected.  To benefit from The FIRST Approach, it is not necessary for a woman to have a diagnosis of FASD. The FIRST Approach will also be supportive to women who are more comfortable with visually based styles.

A French adaptation is also available.