Motor + coordination: dyspraxia / DCD & movement
Coordination, fatigue, handwriting, and overlap with ADHD, autism and learning differences.
At a glance
- Dyspraxia/DCD affects motor planning, coordination, and often fatigue.
- Handwriting, dressing, sports and transitions can be disproportionately hard.
- Overlap with ADHD, autism and learning differences is common.
If you only do one thing
- Reduce the motor load: alternative seating, keyboarding, fewer “copy” demands, and practice in tiny doses.
Dyspraxia / DCD is a motor planning profile
DCD (often called dyspraxia) involves difficulty with motor planning and coordination. Tasks that look “simple” can require much more effort and attention.
Kids may appear clumsy, avoid sports, tire quickly, or struggle with handwriting, buttons, shoelaces, and transitions.
Fatigue is common
When movement costs more, fatigue rises. Fatigue reduces regulation capacity, attention, and tolerance for demand.
Support includes energy budgeting: fewer high‑motor tasks in a row, more time, and alternatives for writing and copying.
Overlap patterns
Overlap with ADHD and autism is common. Some children also have sensory processing differences that make movement feel unsafe or unpredictable.
A child can be strong and still have planning difficulty — this is not about laziness.
Practical supports
Use OT input where available. At home and school: reduce copying, allow keyboarding, teach skills in micro‑steps, and practise in low‑pressure settings.
Choose activities that build confidence: swimming, climbing, martial arts (with the right instructor), or play‑based coordination.