Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) is a motor skills disorder that affects approximately five to six percent of all school-aged children. It is more commonly diagnosed in boys than in girls, with reported ratios ranging from 2:1 to 5:1, depending on the study. DCD is characterized by poor coordination and clumsiness. Often described as “clumsy” or “awkward” by parents and teachers, children with DCD have difficulty mastering simple motor activities, such as tying shoes or going down stairs, and may struggle to perform age-appropriate academic and self-care tasks. Some children experience difficulties across many areas, while others have problems limited to specific activities.
Symptoms of DCD include clumsiness and delays in development. A child may reach developmental milestones—such as sitting, crawling, and walking—later than expected. During the first year of life, there may be difficulties with sucking and swallowing. Problems with fine motor coordination (small, precise movements) are common and may include difficulty tying shoelaces or using scissors. Gross motor activities (those requiring coordinated use of larger muscle groups) may also be affected, including jumping, running, balancing on one foot, or hopping. A child may “trip over his or her own feet,” have an unsteady gait, or have trouble holding onto objects.
It is estimated that approximately six percent of school-aged children have some degree of DCD. Children with DCD may also have learning disabilities, communication disorders, or difficulties with writing, including poor handwriting, spelling problems, and challenges with grammar and pronunciation.
DCD is commonly associated with other developmental conditions. Children with DCD may also have attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), learning disabilities (LD), speech-language delays, and emotional or behavioral difficulties.
Diagnostic Criteria for DCD
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Motor skill acquisition and execution are substantially below expectations for the child’s age.
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Motor skill difficulties significantly interfere with activities of daily living, academic performance, or play.
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Onset occurs during the early developmental period.
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The motor difficulties are not better explained by intellectual disability, visual impairment, or other neurological conditions that affect movement.
Although it was once believed that children would outgrow developmental coordination difficulties, research now shows that DCD often persists through adolescence and into adulthood. While children with DCD can learn to perform certain motor tasks well, they often struggle when faced with new, age-appropriate motor demands and are at increased risk for secondary difficulties resulting from their motor challenges.
