What is Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD)

Developmental coordination disorder (DCD) also known as dyspraxia, is known as “a chronic and usually permanent condition found in children” (Barnhart, Davenport, Epps & Nordquist, 2003). DCD has been used to describe the condition of children with motor incoordination that has a significant impact on a child’s achievement at school and their activities of daily living. Messages sent from the brain are not interpreted by the body correctly. Research has found that 5-8% of children aged 4-11 have a diagnosis of DCD. This is 1 out of 10 children in this age group (Cairney, 2015). This is a lifelong disorder that does not resolve in adulthood, however with the help of early intervention there can be a positive outcome.

A child with DCD demonstrates difficulty in both performing and learning everyday activities at their home, school and in the playground/other play environments (Cermak & Larkin, 2002). DCD can be difficult to recognise in a child early on, but is picked up on once they start school. This is due to a child’s impairment becoming more noticeable as it becomes a struggle to reach academic levels and become involved in sports and games with the other children.

It is interesting for me to see that there is a potential diagnosis for a child who is seen as the class trouble maker, clumsy uncoordinated and lazy. It amazed me to discover that 1 out of 10 children experience this disorder, and that it is most commonly diagnosed in boys. Reflecting back on my placement in Child Development Service, I actually realised that every single child I saw with this diagnosis was a young boy.

Below are links to some videos telling you more information about DCD:

References

Barnhart, R.C., Davenport, M.J, Epps, B., & Nordquist, V.M. (2003). Developmental coordination disorder. Journal of the American Physical Therapy Association. 83(8). 722-731.

Cairney (2015). Developmental coordination disorder and it’s consequences. USA: University of Toronto Press.

Cermak, S.A., & Larkin, D. (2002). Developmental Coordination Disorder. Canada: Delmor Thomoson Learning.