Skip to main content

Dyspraxia Foundation

What is Dyspraxia?

Movement Matters, an umbrella organization representing major national groups in the UK that represent people with coordination difficulties offers the following definition:

Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), also known as dyspraxia, is a common disorder affecting fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. DCD is formally recognised by international organisations including the World Health Organisation. DCD is distinct from other motor disorders such as cerebral palsy and stroke, and occurs across the range of intellectual abilities. Individuals may vary in how their difficulties present: these may change over time depending on environmental demands and life experiences, 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 and 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 and emotional difficulties as well as problems with time management, planning and personal organisation, and these may also affect an adult’s education or employment experiences.

Dyspraxia in children

Although dyspraxia may be diagnosed at any stage of life, increasing numbers of children are identified as having the condition.

Early recognition of dyspraxia will enable early intervention and practical steps to help your child to achieve their potential. Children whose dyspraxia is identified at an early stage are less likely to have problems with acceptance by their peers and with lowered self-esteem.

When children become teenagers their problems may change as social and organisational difficulties become more pressing.

The Dyspraxia Foundation can help and support you and your child through its services and publications.

Our helpline is open to help you!

Call:  01462 454986
Our helpline is available to help you with problems and issues you may encounter; offering help and advice to people with dyspraxia, parents, carers, and families about or on the subject of dyspraxia.

Our helpline is available Monday to Friday, 9 am to 1 pm

Who to contact

Telephone
E-mail
info@dyspraxiafoundation.org.uk
Website
Dyspraxia Foundation

Time / Date Details

When is it on
Our helpline is available Monday to Friday, 9 am to 1 pm
Time of day
Morning

Other Details

Age Bands
11-14 years old
18-25 years old
Parents and carers
15-17 years old
0-4 years old
5-10 years old