BY & FOR BOY MOMS EVERYWHERE

Adolescence is overwhelming for everyone involved. For some families, the challenges are physical and emotional. Motor skills, coordination, and social interactions can lead to a deeper question: is my kid normal?

I’m not a medical doctor, but I did some digging around to learn more. If you do the same, you might come across Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Let’s unpack what I learned about the condition and how it may be impacting the pre-teens and teenagers in your life.

Remember: This website does not provide medical advice. The information on this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice.

What is the Meaning of DCD?

Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects a person’s ability to perform coordinated motor tasks. You might notice it in your toddler but dismiss it until the lack of coordination becomes really apparent. Tasks affected could include activities like writing, tying shoelaces, or playing sports. DCD is often identified by a physician when a child struggles with motor skills well beyond normal expectations for their age group.

The UK’s National Health Service has a comprehensive list of symptoms to look out for.

What are the Symptoms of Dyspraxia?

Dyspraxia, or DCD for short, describes difficulties in planning and executing coordinated movements. Symptoms of dyspraxia in teenage boys might include:

• Clumsiness: Frequent tripping, dropping items, or bumping into things.
• Fine Motor Skill Challenges: Difficulty with tasks like handwriting, using scissors, or buttoning clothing.
• Gross Motor Skill Issues: Problems with activities like running, jumping, or catching a ball.
• Organizational Struggles: Trouble managing time or following multi-step instructions.
• Speech Difficulties: Slurred or unclear speech.

Are Dyspraxia and DCD the Same Thing?

According to the Cleveland Clinic’s website on dyspraxia, the condition is also known as DCD too. Dyspraxia is a chronic condition and if a child is diagnosed with it, the condition will continue in adulthood.

Is DCD the Same as Autism?

No, DCD and autism are separate conditions, but some people have both.

The National Institute of Mental Health defines the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) as “a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how people interact with others, communicate, learn, and behave. Although autism can be diagnosed at any age, it is described as a ‘developmental disorder’ because symptoms generally appear in the first two years of life.” 

ASD may manifest as difficulties with social communication, repetitive behaviors, and sensory processing, but DCD primarily affects motor skills.

What are the Three Components of Dyspraxia?

Dyspraxia is typically broken into three main components:

1. Ideation: Difficulty conceptualizing what needs to be done.
2. Planning: Trouble organizing and sequencing actions.
3. Execution: Challenges performing movements accurately.

A teenager with dyspraxia might struggle with seemingly simple tasks like packing a school bag or performing well in sports, and it really isn’t their fault.

Is Dyspraxia a Form of ADHD?

Some people misunderstand dyspraxia and assume it is a form of ADHD, but they’re not the same. Of course, a person may have both, however.

ADHD is a topic we cover a lot on boymums.com, so it’s worth reading up more here. But, in short, ADHD primarily involves challenges with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, while dyspraxia focuses on motor coordination. But, listen, it is possible to battle with both conditions at the same time.

How Does Dyspraxia Affect Social Skills?

Dyspraxia can significantly impact social interactions, especially for pre-teen and teenage boys. Physical clumsiness might lead to teasing or bullying, eroding self-confidence. Difficulties with sports or group activities can exacerbate social exclusion. If left undiagnosed, kids can really suffer.

Additionally, organizational struggles might make it harder to participate in group projects or plan social outings, so these can lead to challenges in the classroom.

Of course, with the proper diagnosis, kids and parents can partner with coaches and educators to make the right accommodations.

Are there Emotional Symptoms of Dyspraxia?

The physical challenges of dyspraxia can lead to emotional difficulties. If you’re a boymum, you’ll want to watch out for these key issues:

• Low Self-Esteem: Stemming from repeated failures in tasks peers accomplish easily.
• Frustration: Particularly when struggling with daily activities.
• Anxiety: Related to social situations or fear of embarrassment.
• Depression: A result of feeling different or excluded.
• Social Isolation: Fear of awkward interactions could lead self-isolation to avoid rejection.

Is Dyspraxia a Physical or Mental Disability?

Like all neurodevelopmental disorders, dyspraxia is neither purely physical nor purely mental. Instead, it stems from how the brain processes information to coordinate movements. It’s important to recognize dyspraxia as a genuine disability that requires understanding and support.

Is DCD a Type of Autism?

DCD is not a type of autism, though the two conditions may overlap. Boys with both DCD and autism might face compounded difficulties in motor skills, sensory processing, and social communication. However, each condition has distinct diagnostic criteria and treatment approaches.

What is the Best Treatment for Dyspraxia?

If you’re worried your child might have dyspraxia, your pediatrician is going to be your biggest advocate. They can look into the symptoms and recommend therapies, like:

• Occupational Therapy: Focuses on developing fine and gross motor skills for daily tasks.
• Physical Therapy: Targets balance, coordination, and strength.
• Speech Therapy: Addresses any speech-related difficulties.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps manage emotional challenges like anxiety or low self-esteem.
• Educational Support: Specialized teaching strategies and accommodations in school.

What is the Cause of Dyspraxia?

In my readings I didn’t find an exact cause of dyspraxia. The University of London says the causes aren’t fully understood, but it has something to do with neurons in the brain.

Is Dyspraxia a Mental Illness?

No, dyspraxia is not considered a mental illness, but anxiety or depression may rear their ugly head. Addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of dyspraxia is really important for living a full life.

My Son Was Diagnosed with Dyspraxia, Where Can We Get Help?

If your son has been diagnosed with dyspraxia, where should I do next:

• Health Professionals: Consult occupational therapists, physical therapists, and educational psychologists.
• Schools: Work with teachers to create an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan.
• Support Groups: Unfortunately, the Dyspraxia Foundation closed in 2024, but the website is still live and there are a wealth of resources. You connect with other families navigating similar challenges in the United Kingdom and United States.
• Online Resources: Organizations like the Spotlight Foundation or Child Mind Institute offer valuable information.

Can You Outgrow DCD?

While DCD and dyspraxia are lifelong conditions, many children diagnosed early on in life learn strategies to manage the challenges.

With therapy, practice, and ongoing support, teenagers can build confidence and improve their skills. Early intervention and ongoing encouragement can help your son thrive. These tools can also help you feel more empowered and less overwhelmed as a mom. You got this, boymum!