Helping a child who is slow to dress, avoids PE or gets upset by handwriting can be easier when everyone has the same plain-English explanation of dyspraxia. This child-friendly infographic is suited to parents, carers, SENCOs, teachers and practitioners needing a quick DCD handout for home routines, school support or early conversations with families.
Everyday conversations with children, parents and school staff often need a simple way to link clumsiness, balance, fine motor skills and organisation without blaming effort or intelligence. The infographic explains dyspraxia, also known as Developmental Coordination Disorder or DCD, as a neurodevelopmental condition affecting planning, coordination and the execution of movement.
The page is organised into seven numbered sections, making it easy to scan during a meeting or keep on display. It covers possible signs such as falling over often, difficulty riding a bike or catching a ball, messy handwriting, slow dressing, trouble with utensils and buttons, and avoidance of physical activities that feel frustrating.
Day-to-day examples focus on longer task completion, challenges with PE, planning or remembering task steps, frustration and support with personal care. The home section suggests breaking tasks into smaller steps, using visuals, checklists and timers, allowing extra time for activities, practising in a calm environment, praising effort and encouraging confidence-building activities.
School support is described in practical terms, including extra time for transitions, assistive tools such as pencil grips, adapted scissors and sloped writing boards, clear step-by-step instructions, adaptations for PE and supportive partnership with parents and professionals. The final section helps adults decide when to seek advice from school, a GP or another relevant professional, particularly when daily life, self-esteem or wellbeing is affected.
