What Is Dyspraxia / DCD in Children?
Dyspraxia, also called Developmental Coordination Disorder, affects how a child plans and carries out physical movements. It is not linked to intelligence, but it can impact everyday tasks such as dressing, using cutlery, handwriting or sports. Children with Dyspraxia / DCD may need more time to learn new movements and may find some physical activities harder than others.
The condition can also affect organisation, attention and how a child processes information. With the right assessment and support, you can better understand your child’s strengths and challenges and help them build useful skills.
Who the Assessment is For
Every child develops at their own pace, but certain patterns can suggest Dyspraxia / DCD. You may wish to seek an assessment if your child:
- Frequently trips, bumps into things or seems unsteady when walking or running
- Struggles with buttons, zips, cutlery or tying shoelaces
- Finds handwriting slow or difficult to read
- Avoids or feels anxious about sports or playground activities
- Takes longer than expected to learn new physical skills
- Appears disorganised with schoolwork or personal items
- Finds it hard to follow instructions with several steps
This test is suitable for Children aged 8-18 years old, or Adults up to the age of 25.
What the Assessment Involves
The assessment looks at how your child moves, learns, and manages everyday tasks. It is carried out by a clinician specialising in child development, and includes an appointment with a paediatrician (for children) or a GP (for ages 18–25).
The assessment takes place over two in-person sessions. You will be asked about your child’s:
- pregnancy and birth
- early development
- current concerns
We will use a standardised assessment known as a movement ABC-3 to assess fine and gross motor skill development, as well as a range of clinical observations. This is in line with DSM-5 diagnostic criteria and follows best practice. Information may also be gathered from school to understand how your child manages functional activity in the school setting.
Once the initial assessment is complete, you will receive clear feedback and guidance on practical steps you can take to support your child or if further assessment is required.
What The Assessement Detects
A dyspraxia/DCD assessment helps build a clear picture of your child’s strengths and areas of difficulty. It looks at how coordination challenges may be affecting everyday life and learning.
The assessment can help identify:
- difficulties with fine motor skills (e.g. handwriting, using tools)
- challenges with gross motor skills (e.g. balance, coordination, sports)
- how your child manages everyday tasks and routines
- the impact on learning, confidence, and independence
- your child’s strengths, as well as areas where they may need support
- reasons behind tasks that feel harder than expected
Following the assessment, you will receive clear recommendations for support at home and school, and information to share with teachers and other professionals.
Pricing & Payment Options
Cost
The cost of a Dyspraxia / DCD assessment starts from £300 – £1200. These assessments are bespoke depending on the child’s presentation and areas of concern at the time.
Full assessment includes:
- 2 initial face to face assessments to include Movement ABC-3 & clinical observations with our HCPC registered OT
- OT direct consultation with school
- DCDQ completed by parents
- Repeat Movement ABC-3
- Medical with a Paediatrician.
- Diagnostics report with recommendations will be made via telephone with the HCPC registered OT.
Payment Methods
You can pay for your test in two ways:
- Self funded: Payment can be made directly for your spirometry test, usually on the day of your appointment.
- Health insurance: Some insurance providers may cover DCD assessments, depending on your policy. We recommend checking your level of cover in advance.
If you have any questions about pricing or payment, our team is happy to help before you book.
How to Book an Appointment
You can book an assessment directly online with Mid Ulster Clinic, without a referral. The booking form is quick to complete, and you can choose an appointment time that suits you. If you would prefer to speak with someone, you can call our team to arrange your appointment or request a callback using our enquiry form.
Why Choose Mid-Ulster Clinic
Choosing a private DCD assessment gives you quicker access to support without long delays. At Mid Ulster Clinic, your child is seen by clinicians experienced in child development and coordination difficulties.
You receive clear guidance based on your child’s needs, along with a detailed report you can share with school or other professionals. Appointments are arranged to suit your needs.
Our clinic provides a calm and supportive setting, helping your child feel at ease during the assessment. You stay informed throughout the process and get practical advice you can use straight away.
- Medically Reviewed
Last Reviewed By A Medical Professional On 01/29/24
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