Developmental co-ordination disorder (DCD), also known as dyspraxia, is a condition affecting physical co-ordination. It causes children to perform below expected levels in daily activities and appear to move clumsily.
Developmental co-ordination disorder (DCD), also known as dyspraxia, affects how children learn and perform motor skills. Children with DCD may find it difficult to complete everyday tasks such as dressing, bike riding, swimming, or PE lessons. They may perform below expected levels for their age and appear to move clumsily.
Strengths often include creativity, verbal reasoning, empathy, and original thinking — DCD is about how the brain coordinates movement, not about intelligence or effort.
The diagnosis of DCD is usually made by a paediatrician, in collaboration with an occupational therapist or physiotherapist. Ongoing support and care can then be provided by the occupational therapist (OT) or physiotherapist (PT). A norm-referenced assessment of motor skills is essential for diagnosis — the Movement ABC is the most common assessment tool.
Although DCD may be suspected in the pre-school years, it's not usually possible to make a definite diagnosis before age 5. In line with NICE guidelines, assessments are provided for children aged 5-17 years. Adults can be assessed through our adult clinic.
Ongoing OT sessions to build motor skills and confidence using evidence-based approaches like CO-OP.
Learn MoreUnderstanding Sensory Needs Assessment by specialist occupational therapist.
Learn MoreDCD and ADHD often co-occur. We can assess for both if needed.
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