(Student & Parent-Friendly Guide)
Dyspraxia, also known as Developmental
Coordination Disorder (DCD), is a condition that affects physical coordination.
People with dyspraxia may appear clumsy or have trouble with everyday tasks
that involve movement. It can also affect planning and organizing skills,
making school and daily routines more challenging.
Key
Signs and Symptoms
Children or young people with dyspraxia
may:
- Struggle with fine motor skills (like writing,
using scissors, or doing up buttons)
- Have difficulty with gross motor skills (like
running, jumping, or catching a ball)
- Appear clumsy or uncoordinated
- Take longer to learn tasks like tying shoelaces
or riding a bike
- Find it hard to keep up in PE or sports
- Struggle with planning and organizing tasks
- Become tired easily from physical effort
Some children may also experience speech
or social difficulties related to the condition.
How
Dyspraxia is Diagnosed
Diagnosis usually involves:
- Developmental history and information from
parents and teachers
- Motor skills assessments by occupational
therapists or paediatricians
- Observations of physical coordination in
everyday tasks
There is no single test for dyspraxia,
but a combination of evaluations helps professionals make a diagnosis.
Support
and Strategies
Support can make a big difference in
helping learners with dyspraxia feel confident and capable. This may include:
- Occupational therapy to improve fine motor and
coordination skills
- Physical therapy to strengthen gross motor
skills
- Classroom accommodations, like allowing more
time for tasks or using a laptop for writing
- Step-by-step instructions and visual supports
- Modified PE activities and alternative ways to
join in with sports
- Supportive teachers who understand the need for
patience and encouragement
Reassurance
for Students and Families
www.nhs.uk
Living
with Dyspraxia - UNESCO Miep
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