What Is Dyspraxia_ Understanding the Signs and Symptoms

1. What Is Dyspraxia? Understanding the Signs and Symptoms Dyspraxia might not be a word you hear every day, but for many Aussie families, it's something that deeply affects their daily lives. Whether you're a parent, educator or just curious, understanding what dyspraxia is — and how it shows up — is the first step in making a real difference. What is Dyspraxia? Dyspraxia, also known as Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), is a condition that affects physical coordination. People with dyspraxia often have trouble planning and carrying out smooth, coordinated movements. It’s not linked to intelligence, but it can impact a person’s ability to do everyday tasks — from writing neatly to getting dressed or catching a ball. Dyspraxia is more common than many realise and often goes unrecognised, especially in young kids. The earlier it’s picked up, the sooner support strategies can be put in place to help a child thrive. Spotting the Signs Early On

2. Dyspraxia can look different from one person to the next, but there are some common signs — especially in childhood — that may raise red flags. These can include: ● Delays in reaching milestones – like crawling, walking or speaking. ● Clumsiness – frequent tripping, bumping into things, or dropping objects. ● Struggles with fine motor skills – difficulty with writing, drawing, tying shoelaces, or using scissors. ● Trouble with coordination – avoiding sports or seeming awkward in physical activities. ● Speech and language issues – some children with dyspraxia might also have trouble forming words or speaking clearly. Of course, every child develops differently, but if you notice a pattern of challenges across multiple areas, it’s worth having a chat with a healthcare professional. Dyspraxia Isn’t Just About Physical Movement While motor coordination is at the core of dyspraxia, the condition can affect more than just physical ability. Many children (and adults) with dyspraxia also face: ● Low self-esteem, especially if they’re teased or compared to peers. ● Anxiety or frustration, due to constant struggles with seemingly “simple” tasks. ● Learning difficulties – not because they aren’t intelligent, but because they might need different ways of learning or expressing what they know. It’s important to remember that dyspraxia doesn’t define a person’s potential. With the right support and understanding, people with dyspraxia can lead successful, fulfilling lives. Getting a Diagnosis and Support If you think your child (or student) might have dyspraxia, the first step is speaking with a GP or paediatrician. From there, they may refer you to an occupational therapist, speech therapist, or psychologist for assessment. A formal diagnosis can be incredibly helpful. It opens the door to targeted support — both in school and at home — and helps the child feel seen and understood. Support might include: ● Occupational therapy to build fine and gross motor skills. ● Speech therapy for language or articulation challenges. ● Adjustments at school (like extra time for writing or alternative ways of doing tasks). Every child is different, so the approach will depend on their individual needs. Why Awareness of Dyspraxia Matters The more we talk about dyspraxia, the more we can break down the stigma and confusion around it. Early intervention makes a world of difference — but that starts with awareness. Whether you're a parent noticing some signs in your child or a teacher wanting to better support your students, understanding dyspraxia is a powerful first step. Learning more about dyspraxia and its impact means we can build more inclusive schools, workplaces, and communities — where everyone gets the chance to succeed on their own terms.