Following the UK consensus meetings that took place in 2011 and 2012, there was common agreement on using the following text to describe DCD/Dyspraxia in children and adults.
Definition of Developmental Coordination Disorder
Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), also known as Dyspraxia in the UK, is a common disorder affecting fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. This condition is formally recognised by international organisations including the World Health Organisation. DCD is distinct from other motor disorders such as cerebral palsy and stroke. Individual’s intellectual ability is in line with the general population. Individuals may vary in how their difficulties present; these may change over time depending on environmental demands and life experience, and will persist into adulthood.
An individual’s coordination difficulties may affect participation and functioning of everyday life skills in education, work and employment. Children may present with difficulties with self-care, writing, typing, riding a bike, play as well as other educational and recreational activities. In adulthood many of these difficulties will continue, as well as learning new skills at home, in education and work, such as driving a car and DIY. There may be a range of co-occurring difficulties which can also have serious negative impacts on daily life. These include social emotional difficulties as well as problems with time management, planning and organisation and these may impact an adult’s education or employment experiences.
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Click here for answers to some frequently asked questions.
Click here to download the European Academy of Childhood Disability recommendations for DCD/Dyspraxia that were revised for the UK in 2012.
Click here to download the European Academy of Childhood Disability Clinical practice recommendations on Developmental Coordination Disorder, published in 2019.
Additional Resources