Dyspraxia

Dyspraxia is a common disorder that affects movement and coordination. Though it doesn’t affect intelligence, it can affect coordination skills such as playing sports or driving a car. It delays normal developmental activities in about 10% of the population. It disrupts the way messages from the brain are sent throughout the body.

Kids with dyspraxia may be more clumsy and have poor muscle strength. They may have trouble playing sports, having balance, and learning to drive a car as they get older. They also may have trouble with following directions. Kids with dyspraxia usually have poor organisation as well. 

1. Teachers can pre-teach new skills and provide instructions that a kid can refer to on their own. If kids with dyspraxia have more time to practice skills, it’ll be helpful for them. Playing a new game, using a hole puncher, and taking notes are all strategies to use.

2. Breaking actions into smaller steps is also a good strategy to help kids with dyspraxia. Writing instructions on the board and redirecting students who are lost in the middle of an activity can guide them back on track. Teachers can also reread and say instructions out loud so it’s clear for kids with dyspraxia.

3. Planning seating in classes so that students with dyspraxia can sit closer to the board can make sure that they won’t be distracted by windows, doors, etc. Giving breaks to kids with dyspraxia can help with concentration as well.

4. Give students with dyspraxia more time on projects, tests, and homework because it is harder for them to write and takes more time.

5. Instead of writing or typing, let your student with dyspraxia use voice typing or record videos of themselves speaking.

1. One way parents can help their kids with dyspraxia is to involve them in household sessions and activities. This includes helping with cooking, cleaning up after eating, and playing simple games like hopscotch. 

2. Another way is to make changes at home to encourage more independence. Fastening clothes, time managment, and organization are only some of the ways.

3. Children with dyspraxia can have an adapted physical education and sports curriculum.

4. A occupational therapist can provide support for children with dyspraxia in school.

5. The International Dyspraxia Foundation USA is a foundation for kids with dyspraxia, information is located on this site. 

https://dyspraxiausa.org/