How to Live with Dyspraxia

Dyspraxia causes problems with coordination and movement. It is often called "clumsy child syndrome." While dyspraxia most often affects movement and coordination, it can also impact learning. A child with dyspraxia sometimes has language problems as well as problems with thinking and perception. The dyspraxic child sometimes experiences learning difficulties. Some days, the child with dyspraxia can handle a task, while other days, the task is too difficult.

Things You'll Need

• Diagnosis from a clinical or educational psychologist or a pediatrician
• Treatment plan
• Activities which can be done at home

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Find simple physical activities your child can do and incorporate them into your daily routine. If your child falls or bumps into walls and objects frequently, make it a game to decrease the number of falls or bumps in her day. Work with her occupational therapist to find simple coping mechanisms which help her to increase her level of coordination.

• 2

  Talk with your child's therapists (occupational, speech) about some simple exercises you and your child can practice in between therapy sessions. If your child has difficulty with fine motor movements, find some fun games to play as you help him to practice new skills.

• 3

  Sit down with your child and ask her how her dyspraxia affects her at school. If she is being left out of group activities because of her disorder, discuss this with her teacher so your child can be included in activities she is able to handle.

• 4

  If dressing is an issue for your child because of movement and coordination difficulties, try to find clothing he is able to manipulate so he can dress on his own. If he cannot tie his shoes or manipulate a zipper, look for shoes with no laces or pants and outfits with no zippers.

• 5

  If your child avoids schoolwork because she has difficulty planning out her assignments or because she has problems with handwriting, discuss this with the diagnostician and her case manager. Your child will be given a Special Education Individualized Education Plan (IEP) which will address her diagnosis and provide for modifications which will make it easier for her to function in the classroom.