Developmental Coordination Disorder(DCD): Simple changes that help at home

DCD affects motor skills, like running, jumping or writing. Sometimes balance, reaction time and posture are also affected. It is not related to low IQ, vision or hearing problems or other brain function disorders. Children with DCD can feel discouraged and left out by peers. Treatment by a professional is always best. The earlier you start treatment the better for your child. But there are also some simple things you can do at home to help your child.

• Self-care
• Label (or color code) drawers.
• Organize clothing by how it is actually put on. For example, put first items on (e.g. underwear) in the top drawer and last items on (e.g., pants). In the bottom drawer.
• Assist your child in laying out clothes the night before.
• Create a separate shelf or basket in the bathroom for your child's bathroom supplies (e.g., toothbrush, comb, etc.).
• Toys
• Give each type of toy a home in a labeled basket, bin, shelf or drawer.
• Tape a picture of the toy on the toy's "home".
• Clean up an activity before starting a new one.
• Homework
• Have a notebook with labeled (or color coded) dividers for each subject.
• Have a separate folder for notes between teacher and parent.
• Have your child use a pencil grip.
• Have a comfortable and quiet place to do homework.

Adapted from May-Benson T, Ingolia P & Koomar J. (2002). Accommodations to Functional Settings for Children with Developmental Coordination Disorder. In SA Cermak and D Larkin (Eds), Developmental Coordination Disorder (pp.280-283). Canada: Delmar Thomson Learning.