Developmental coordination Disorder (DCD) / Dyspraxia

Supporting Children with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), also known as Dyspraxia: A Family Guide

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What is dyspraxia?

Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), also known as dyspraxia, is a common neurodevelopmental condition that affects a child’s ability to plan, organise and carry out coordinated movements needed for everyday tasks.

These challenges can significantly affect daily life and the ability to perform routine tasks. While DCD typically emerges in early childhood, its effects can persist into adulthood if not adequately managed during the developmental years.

DCD affects approximately 5–6% of school-aged children, with boys diagnosed more frequently than girls. It is not caused by muscle weakness or cognitive delay. A child will not receive a diagnosis of DCD if they have an intellectual delay, visual impairment or other neurological conditions.

Problems with DCD can vary significantly between individuals. The main feature of this condition lies in the challenges individuals face with gross motor skills like running and jumping, as well as fine motor skills like using scissors, writing with a pen or pencil and handling cutlery for eating. Children with DCD can struggle with processing and integrating sensory and motor information, leading to difficulties with tasks like dressing, buttoning clothes and tying shoelaces. Their difficulties can extend to hand-eye coordination, making activities such as catching a ball or participating in sports more challenging. This can lead to slower task completion and an increased likelihood of accidents, creating a sense of clumsiness.

DCD’s impact extends beyond the physical realm, affecting emotional and social aspects of a child’s life. Children may experience frustration and anxiety due to their difficulties, which can contribute to low self-esteem. These challenges can give rise to challenging behaviours and sometimes lead to decreased physical fitness, as children may avoid physical activities due to balance and coordination problems. This can potentially result in overweight-related issues.

These challenges may also impact academic performance and social interactions.

A child-friendly explanation

Having dyspraxia is like your brain knows what it wants your body to do, but the messages get a little jumbled. That’s why things like writing, running, playing ball games, jumping or getting dressed might feel trickier, but with help and practice, you can get better at them.

Strategies for supporting your child

At home

  • Break activities into smaller, manageable steps with visual checklists
  • Allow extra time and offer regular practice for dressing and hygiene tasks
  • Use clothing with Velcro fastenings or elastic waistbands to reduce frustration with dressing
  • Reinforce effort and progress, rather than perfection or speed
  • Use visual timetables to prepare for changes in routines
  • Encourage fun, low-pressure physical activities (e.g. swimming, martial arts)
  • Promote hobbies that boost confidence and social connection

At school

  • Allow extra time for writing, tests and getting changed for PE
  • Provide sloped desks and writing boards, pencil grips or alternative writing tools
  • Offer assistive technology (e.g. laptops, spell check, speech-to-text software)
  • Reduce environmental distractions and offer preferential seating
  • Break down physical tasks into smaller, simpler steps
  • Use visual demonstrations and step-by-step instructions
  • Send homework electronically and use peer note-takers when needed
  • Use visual aids for classroom routines and sequences
  • Reduce writing load where possible (e.g. photocopying notes, using templates)
  • Give specific, effort-focused feedback (e.g. “I noticed how you tried a new way to hold your pencil”)

In the community

  • Choose lifestyle sports (e.g. skating, swimming, cycling) for endurance and fun
  • Gradually introduce new environments (like playgrounds), without pressure
  • Help instructors or coaches understand the child’s needs and strengths
  • Support social inclusion through shared-interest activities (e.g. music, Lego, drama)
  • Use protective gear to improve both safety and confidence in physical activities

Summary

Children with DCD face challenges with everyday tasks that others may take for granted. However, with early identification, understanding and tailored support, they can thrive. Early identification and intervention are key to preventing secondary problems. Small adaptations at home, in school and in community settings can have a significant impact on a child’s confidence, independence and wellbeing.

Online resources and further support