Originally published as part of The Neurodiversity 101 LinkedIn Newsletter by Professor Amanda Kirby.
I was out walking yesterday where I was aware of some black ice on the path. While walking and staying upright it made me realise how I had changed my movements as I was concerned that I did not land on my backside! I took a wider stance and slower more cautious movements.
It also made me think about people with DCD where co-ordination and balance maybe harder for some. DCD has been a passion and interest of mine for nearly 40 years as I have close family members with DCD now and in the past.
What is DCD?
Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), often called dyspraxia, is still widely misunderstood. In the DSM-5 it involves significantly below-expected motor skill acquisition, impacting daily activities (self-care, school, play), with symptom onset in early development.
It's classified as a neurodevelopmental disorder and often co-occurs with other conditions such as ADHD, dyslexia, and autism. Research suggests that around 5-6% of school-age children may have DCD, meaning many adults in the workforce are also likely to be affected.
How poor coordination is misjudged
Poor coordination has historically been seen as being less capable. The word 'clumsy' itself stems from Scandinavian roots meaning benumbed, idle, or lazy — a telling reflection of how those with DCD have been perceived.
Understanding that DCD is a neurodevelopmental condition rather than laziness or carelessness is the first step to providing appropriate support in education and the workplace.