Understanding Dyspraxia or Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD)

Written by: Jasmine K. Y. Loo (Psychologist)

Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), commonly known as dyspraxia, is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects motor coordination, planning and execution. While often overlooked or misdiagnosed, DCD significantly impacts daily functioning, self-esteem, and participation in work, education and social settings. Understanding the challenges associated with DCD is essential for individuals, caregivers, educators and professionals who seek to provide effective support and accommodations.

Core Characteristics of DCD/Dyspraxia

1. Motor Coordination Difficulties

• Dyspraxic individuals struggle with fine and gross motor skills, making tasks like writing, using cutlery, tying shoelaces and playing sports challenging.

• Movements may appear clumsy or uncoordinated, leading to frequent stumbling, dropping objects, or difficulty with hand-eye coordination.

2. Difficulties with Motor Planning

• Planning and executing movements require more cognitive effort, making multi-step tasks (such as getting dressed or cooking) complex and frustrating.

• Individuals may have trouble sequencing movements in the correct order or adjusting them based on environmental changes.

3. Handwriting and Fine Motor Skill Challenges

• Many dyspraxic individuals have trouble with handwriting (possibly with coexisting dysgraphia), including slow writing speed, inconsistent letter sizing and trouble with letter- and word-spacing.

• Precision-based tasks such as cutting with scissors, buttoning clothes or typing may require additional time and effort.

4. Delayed Motor Milestones

• Many dyspraxic children exhibit delayed milestones, such as learning to walk, crawl or ride a bicycle later than peers.

• Difficulties in activities requiring balance and coordination, such as climbing stairs or hopping, are common.

5. Social and Emotional Impact

• Struggles with coordination can lead to exclusion from sports and playground activities, impacting social inclusion and self-confidence.

• Feelings of frustration, embarrassment or self-consciousness may develop, particularly in school or work settings where motor skills are required.

• Anxiety and low self-esteem can emerge due to repeated failures or negative feedback from others about perceived "clumsiness."

6. Executive Functioning and Cognitive Load

• Dyspraxia can co-occur with executive functioning difficulties, leading to challenges in organising tasks, following multi-step instructions, and managing time effectively.

• Increased cognitive load when focusing on motor skills can make it harder to concentrate on other tasks, such as listening in class while taking notes.

TL;DR

Strategies for Managing Dyspraxia

✔ Breaking Tasks into Manageable Steps – Providing step-by-step instructions and visual aids can make complex activities more accessible.

✔ Utilising Assistive Tools – Using grips for pens, speech-to-text software, and adaptive utensils can help ease fine motor difficulties.

✔ Encouraging Movement-Based Therapies – Occupational therapy, physiotherapy and targeted exercises can help improve coordination and motor skills.

✔ Implementing Structured Routines – Predictable routines reduce cognitive load and provide stability for task management.

✔ Creating a Supportive Environment – Educators and employers should offer accommodations, such as extra time for tasks, reduced emphasis on handwriting and alternative assessment methods.

✔ Building Self-Advocacy Skills – Teaching individuals to express their needs and seek appropriate accommodations fosters independence and confidence.

Final Thoughts

Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), or dyspraxia, is more than just "clumsiness" — it is a significant neurodevelopmental condition that affects various aspects of daily life. Increased awareness, early intervention, and tailored strategies can empower dyspraxic individuals to navigate their challenges with confidence and support. By fostering understanding and inclusivity, we can create environments where dyspraxic individuals can thrive.

Does this interest you in the context of your professional work? Apply for a NAPAA professional membership today to access a growing library of member exclusive resources, such as Navigating the World with Dyspraxia: Understanding and Managing Directional Challenges