DCD Therapy for Kids | Cadabam’s Child Development Center
If your child seems unusually clumsy, struggles with handwriting, or avoids sports, you may have heard the term developmental-coordination-disorder-in-kids (also called dyspraxia). At Cadabams CDC, we turn confusion into clarity and frustration into steady progress. This guide walks you through what DCD is, how to spot it, and the proven therapy options that help children move, learn, and play with confidence.
What is Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) in Kids?
Definition & Alternate Names Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects a child’s ability to plan and execute smooth, coordinated movements. You might also hear it called dyspraxia or motor learning difficulty.
Early Signs Parents Notice * Frequent tripping or bumping into furniture * Difficulty holding a pencil or using scissors * Trouble zipping jackets or tying shoelaces * Avoidance of playground equipment or PE class
How DCD Differs From Other Motor Disorders Unlike cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy, DCD is not caused by muscle weakness or nerve damage. Instead, the brain has trouble sending the right messages to the body, making everyday movements feel harder than they should.
Symptoms & Red Flags of DCD/Dyspraxia
Gross Motor Difficulties * Poor balance—may fall off a bicycle within seconds * Uncoordinated running or skipping * Difficulty learning new sports routines
Fine Motor Challenges * Illegible handwriting or pressing too hard on paper * Trouble stacking blocks, threading beads, or opening lunch boxes * Frustration during craft activities
Co-occurring Issues * ADHD—restlessness or trouble focusing * Speech delay—unclear pronunciation or slow language development * Sensory processing differences—over- or under-reaction to noise, touch, or movement
Causes & Risk Factors of DCD
Pre- and Peri-natal Influences * Premature birth or low birth weight * Maternal smoking or alcohol exposure * Prolonged labor leading to oxygen deprivation
Genetic and Neurological Factors * Family history of learning or motor difficulties * Differences in cerebellum development (the brain’s coordination center)
Environmental Contributors * Limited tummy time in infancy * Reduced outdoor play opportunities * High screen time replacing active exploration
How We Diagnose DCD at Cadabam’s CDC
Step-by-Step Assessment Process 1. Intake call—10-minute parent screening 2. In-clinic evaluation—90-minute standardized tests 3. Multidisciplinary meeting—OT, pediatrician, and case manager review findings together
Tools Used * BOT-2 (Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency) * MABC-2 (Movement Assessment Battery for Children) checklists * Teacher feedback form to capture classroom challenges
Role of Parent Interview & School Input Parents describe daily struggles, while teachers share observations on handwriting speed, PE participation, and social interactions. This 360-degree view ensures no red flag is missed.
Evidence-Based Therapy Programs We Offer
Occupational Therapy (OT) Sessions * One-on-one 45-minute sessions, twice weekly * Play-based tasks that strengthen hand muscles and improve coordination
Sensory Integration Techniques * Swings, trampolines, and weighted blankets to organize the nervous system * “Sensory diet” cards for home and school
Task-Oriented & Motor-Learning Approaches * Breaking a task like tying shoes into tiny, teachable steps * Video modeling so kids see success before trying
Technology Aids * Interactive games on tablets to boost reaction time * VR balance boards that make therapy feel like an adventure video game
Parent & School Collaboration Plan
Home Exercise Programs With Video Demos * QR-coded cards provide access to 2-minute demo clips on our secure parent portal * Daily 10-minute routines fit easily before bedtime
Teacher Coaching & Classroom Strategies * Pencil grips, slant boards, and quiet fidget tools * Extra time on written tests and seating near the teacher
Regular Progress Updates & Goal Reviews * Monthly email snapshots showing skills mastered * Quarterly video calls to adjust goals and celebrate wins
Meet Our Pediatric Specialists
Lead OT Profiles & Certifications * Ms. Ananya Rao, M.O.Th, SIPT-certified * Mr. Kevin D’Souza, B.O.T, 10+ years in neuro-pediatric OT
Developmental Pediatrician Oversight Dr. Meera Krishnan reviews every diagnosis and monitors medical co-conditions such as ADHD or epilepsy.
Case Manager for Seamless Care A dedicated care coordinator books appointments, answers questions within 24 hours, and ensures therapy notes reach your child’s school promptly.
Success Stories & Testimonials
Before-and-After Case Snippets * Arjun, age 7: Could not pedal a tricycle—now rides a two-wheeler after 6 months of OT. * Kiara, age 9: Handwriting illegible—moved from 4-letter reversals to neat cursive in 12 weeks.
Parent Feedback Videos Available 30-second clips feature parents describing first bike rides and award-winning art projects. Real voices, real hope.