Developmental co-ordination disorder
Developmental co-ordination disorder (DCD), also known as dyspraxia, is a condition affecting physical co-ordination. It causes a child to perform less well than expected in daily activities for their age, and appear to move clumsily.
This can mean that children find it harder or more frustrating to complete everyday tasks such as dressing, bike riding, swimming or engaging in PE lessons.
How is DCD diagnosed?
The diagnosis of DCD is usually made by a paediatrician, often in collaboration with an occupational therapist. Ongoing support and care is then provided by the occupational therapist.
For a diagnosis to be made, it’s essential for the child to have what is called a norm-referenced assessment of their motor skills. The most common type of assessment is the Movement ABC.
What does an assessment involve?
We can offer a comprehensive joint assessment by an Occupational therapist and paediatrician.
Alongside you and your child , together we can take a history of early milestones, current difficulties and complete a formal assessment of motor skills.
We offer comprehensive assessment and will help with some individual practical strategies regardless of whether your child receives a DCD diagnosis or not.
Further follow up sessions with an OT can be offered if appropriate to complete further assessment and treatment using evidence based approaches.