• Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) is a developmental motor disorder where a person has significant challenges learning and performing everyday motor skills (e.g., dressing, using cutlery, handwriting, balance), not explained by a physical, sensory, or intellectual disability.
• “Dyspraxia” is a commonly used term but does not have one internationally agreed definition. Some people use it broadly to include coordination difficulties along with planning, organisation, and sometimes speech difficulties.
• The clinical term used in the DSM-5 is Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD).
• In older diagnostic systems (DSM-IV), dyspraxia appeared under different categories, which contributes to current confusion.

• DCD is normally diagnosed by a multi-disciplinary team, typically including an Occupational Therapist and a Paediatrician, using information from parents, school, and everyday functioning.
• GPs usually refer rather than diagnose.
• Private assessments are available if quicker access is needed.
• Dyspraxia Ireland offer a funded assessment and intervention clinic for children aged 8–13 who are on a primary care waiting list and meet the criteria.
• Diagnosis is rarely given before age 5, as motor development varies greatly before then, but early support is still encouraged if difficulties are observed.

• Motor coordination difficulties affect fine and gross motor skills, balance, motor planning and sequencing, and everyday tasks such as dressing, handwriting, cutlery use, and ball skills.
• Some individuals also experience executive function challenges, such as organisation, planning, working memory, and following multi-step instructions.
• Verbal dyspraxia (a speech motor disorder) is separate from DCD and falls under communication disorders.

• DCD is a lifelong disability. Many adults continue to experience motor and organisational challenges throughout life.
• For adults, there is no single standardised diagnostic motor test, but structured tools such as the Adult Developmental Coordination Disorders / Dyspraxia Checklist (ADC) can support identification.

• Early recognition helps. Support can begin with everyday skill development—short, frequent practice tends to be more effective.
• In school or university, sharing a diagnosis can assist with accessing supports such as typing instead of handwriting or extra task time.
• In the workplace, reasonable accommodations can also be put in place; we can signpost supports if required.
• When explaining the condition to a child, focus on strengths, differences, and reassurance—share information gradually.
• Dyspraxia/DCD Ireland can help signpost families, adults, and young people to relevant supports through our contact form.

No. DCD does not affect a person’s intelligence or cognitive ability. People with Dyspraxia/DCD have the same range of intellectual abilities as the general population. The challenges relate specifically to motor coordination and related functional tasks—not to thinking ability, creativity, or learning potential.

Yes. Many people with Dyspraxia/DCD also experience co-occurring conditions such as ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, sensory processing differences, anxiety, and autism spectrum conditions. Combinations vary, which is why assessments may involve different professionals depending on the concerns.

Living with Dyspraxia/DCD can create daily challenges—physical, organisational, and emotional. Difficulties with coordination, planning, or fatigue can sometimes lead to stress, self-doubt, or frustration, especially if a person feels misunderstood. These feelings are common and valid. With the right strategies, understanding, and support, confidence often improves significantly.