DCD stands for Developmental Coordination Disorder.
Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), also sometimes referred to as dyspraxia, is a neurodevelopmental condition that primarily affects physical coordination. Children with DCD often struggle with motor skills, making everyday tasks challenging. These challenges aren't due to general medical conditions (like cerebral palsy), intellectual disability, or visual impairment. Instead, it's a specific difficulty with motor coordination.
Here's a breakdown of key aspects of DCD:
- Impact: Affects a child's ability to perform daily activities that require motor coordination.
- Symptoms: Clumsiness, difficulty with fine motor skills (writing, tying shoes), and gross motor skills (running, jumping).
- Diagnosis: Diagnosed when a child's motor skills are significantly below what is expected for their age and this impacts their academic achievement or daily living.
- Not a Disease: DCD is a developmental condition, not an illness that can be cured.
- Management: Early intervention and therapy can help children with DCD improve their motor skills and overall functioning.
While the exact cause of DCD is unknown, it is believed to involve differences in brain development that affect motor planning and execution.
