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Developmental coordination disorder (DCD)

DCD is a neurodevelopmental condition in which learning and performing motor skills is significantly harder than expected and interferes with everyday life. It is not laziness; careful assessment and practical support at home and school can make a big difference.

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  • DCD is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting the planning, learning and performance of coordinated movements.
  • Motor skills are clearly below the level expected for age and opportunities to practise, and interfere with daily activities, school, play or sport.
  • The child is not lazy, uninterested or less intelligent. Extra effort alone does not solve the difficulty with processing information.
  • DCD begins during development and does not explain a sudden loss of skills.
  • Assessment uses developmental history, observation, standardised motor tests and information from home and school.
  • Interventions focused on specific tasks and practical adjustments are preferred to exercises without a clear link to the everyday goal.
  • DCD may persist into adolescence and adulthood, but strategies, suitable technology and support can increase independence.

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