Supporting Children with Dyspraxia: A Practical OT Guide for Parents

Raising a child with dyspraxia—also known as Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD)—can be both rewarding and challenging. This neurological condition affects a child’s ability to plan and coordinate movements, making everyday tasks like getting dressed, writing, or riding a bike more difficult. With the proper support and understanding, however, children with dyspraxia can thrive at home, school, and in the community.

Occupational therapy (OT) plays a vital role in helping children overcome the obstacles that dyspraxia presents. If you’ve been seeking practical solutions, this guide offers helpful insights for parents navigating this journey.

What is Dyspraxia?

Dyspraxia is a condition that affects motor skill development and coordination. Children with dyspraxia often struggle with tasks that require fine and gross motor skills. This might include difficulty with handwriting, buttoning shirts, balancing on one foot, or catching a ball. They may also find it hard to sequence steps in a task, impacting their independence and confidence.

It’s important to note that dyspraxia is not related to intelligence. Many children with the condition are bright and creative but need support to carry out everyday activities effectively.

How Occupational Therapy Can Help

Occupational therapists are trained to assess and support children with coordination challenges. Through tailored therapy programs, they focus on improving a child’s functional abilities and boosting their confidence.

For children with dyspraxia, OT sessions may include:

• Activities to improve hand-eye coordination
• Exercises that build core strength and balance
• Step-by-step strategies for self-care tasks like dressing or brushing teeth
• Support with classroom skills such as cutting, writing, or using scissors

Therapists also work closely with parents and teachers to create consistent routines and strategies across home and school environments.

Creating Structure at Home

Routine and predictability are key for children with dyspraxia. They often benefit from clear instructions, visual cues, and task breakdowns. You can support your child by:

• Breaking tasks into smaller steps and demonstrating them clearly
• Using visual schedules or charts to reinforce routines
• Allowing extra time for transitions and new tasks
• Encouraging independence with positive reinforcement

Creating a supportive environment at home helps children build confidence and reduce frustration.

Building Motor Skills Through Play

Children learn best through play. Occupational therapists often recommend play-based activities to enhance motor planning and coordination. These could include:

• Obstacle courses to practise balance and sequencing
• Craft activities to develop fine motor control
• Outdoor games like hopscotch or skipping
• Interactive tasks like cooking or gardening

Engaging your child in these activities at home supports their development and creates opportunities for bonding and fun.

Working with Your Child’s School

Children with dyspraxia may face challenges in the classroom, from holding a pencil correctly to organising their work. Collaborating with your child’s school and OT can help ensure they receive the right accommodations.

Teachers may implement tools like pencil grips, sloped desks, or alternative seating. Therapists can also provide in-school observations and suggest modifications that promote success.

Regular communication between parents, therapists, and educators creates a united support system for your child.

Final Thought

Supporting a child with dyspraxia requires patience, understanding, and practical strategies—but you’re not alone. With the help of occupational therapy and the right approach at home, your child can build essential life skills and grow into a confident, independent individual. Every small win matters, and with consistent support, children with dyspraxia can flourish uniquely.