DCD? What’s that?  

October 6-12 is DCD Awareness Week, a time to bring much-needed attention to this condition that affects many but is known by few.    

What is DCD?  

DCD stands for Developmental Coordination Disorder, a lifelong condition affecting 5-6% of the population – one to two children in every classroom! Early on, children often experience difficulty learning motor skills such as eating with utensils, tooth brushing or using a pencil. Later in childhood, learning to ride a bike, play an instrument or participate in sports may also be challenging. In older children and adults, executive functioning (organizing, planning and prioritizing) may also be affected.  

Normal to High Intelligence, Yet School Trouble  

Intellectual impairment is NOT part of DCD. In fact, affected individuals often have many intellectual strengths! Despite that, school difficulties are common. In the classroom, motor tasks (writing, keyboarding), usually required for learning activities and assessments, may limit the participation and success of children with DCD. Later in school, difficulties with executive functioning may affect the ability to manage an increasing workload.  

It’s Not Just Physical  

Although motor issues are at the core of DCD, the impact goes far beyond the physical. The combination of school challenges and limited ability to participate in social and recreational activities may make it difficult for children with DCD to fit in with their peers and make friends. Children may experience anxiety, loneliness and depression. In adolescence and adulthood, difficulties with the “rites of passage” of adulthood – learning to drive or holding down a job – may further erode self-esteem.  

Figuring It Out: Diagnosis and Treatment  

Ideally, DCD is identified in early childhood to anticipate and address issues throughout development. Concerned parents should contact their family doctor or pediatrician, who can arrange a referral to occupational therapy for specific testing. Although it is now accepted that DCD is lifelong, diagnosis in adults is still evolving. An adult who suspects DCD should discuss possible avenues for diagnosis with the family doctor. Occupational therapy treatment specific to DCD can be highly beneficial in conquering motor challenges.    

Why Does it Matter?  

For those with DCD, understanding the condition provides a framework for understanding personal strengths and challenges and making informed life decisions. Goals with associated challenges can be anticipated and planned; unnecessary hurdles may be avoidable. For the rest of society, ensuring that 5-6% of the population can reach their full potential is obvious! Having faced (and often overcome!) many obstacles in their lives, those with DCD often show exceptional creativity, resilience, empathy, and the knowledge and skills they contribute to all they do.    

Shine a Light on DCD  

This year, shine a light on DCD by learning more and sharing information with others. The more we understand about DCD, the more likely it is that kids and adults with DCD can get the support they need to thrive. Together, we can make a difference for people with DCD.   

– Guest Contributor Linda Casey, Director of Advocacy and Community Engagement with ISRA-DCD (International Society for Research and Advocacy for DCD)