Dyspraxia, which is also known as developmental coordination disorder (DCD) is a diagnosis that affects physical coordination. Evidence base suggests that Dyspraxia is 3 – 4 times more common in males than females, and it is commonly associated with other neurodivergences such as autism and ADHD.
Things you might notice in someone who is Dyspraxic:
- Needs relating to balance and movement
- Harder to learn new skills, thinking and remembering information at school, work and home.
- Some daily living tasks such as dressing or preparing meals take more effort and concentration.
- Difficulties with grasping or manipulating small objects.
- Challenges with managing emotions.
- Executive functioning needs, such as time management, planning, organising and sequencing.
Assessing Dyspraxia
You can self-refer (or refer your child) to us for an assessment of Dyspraxia. Our assessments process is detailed below:
Tools we use during the assessment
During the assessment the team will complete a comprehensive development history. Alongside this they will offer a range of different tools depending on age, other co-occurring needs and reason for assessment.
The tools we use in our service are:
- WISC-V. We use this when we need to consider any cognitive differences or global developmental delay/ Learning Disability. This is completed by a clinical psychologist.
- BOT-2. This tool is used to understand the individuals motor skills and can used for individuals aged 4 – 21.
- SPM. This questionnaire is used to better understand an individual’s sensory profile The SPM-2 can be used with all ages.
- Beery VMI. Our therapists will use this to assess visual motor integration.
- DASH/DASH 17+. This tool is used to assess handwriting speed.
Support for Dyspraxia
We don’t look to ‘treat dyspraxia’ however there are things that can help with daily living, for example:
- Physiotherapy to support with improving mobility, balance and movement.
- Occupational Therapy to explore strategies to promote independence and managing everyday tasks, such as writing or preparing food.
- Nursing or Psychology can support with emotional regulation.