Developmental Pediatrics for Developmental Coordination Disorder | Cadabams CDC
Watching your child struggle to button a shirt, hold a pencil, or keep up on the playground can be worrying. These everyday challenges may point to developmental coordination disorder (DCD)—a common but often-overlooked condition that affects how children plan and carry out movements. At Cadabams CDC, our developmental pediatrics team turns confusion into clarity and frustration into progress through evidence-based assessments, therapy, and family support.
What Is Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD)?
Definition and Prevalence
Developmental coordination disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by marked difficulty in learning and performing coordinated motor skills. It is not the result of low intelligence or muscle weakness; rather, the brain has trouble translating intention into smooth action.
- Prevalence: Affects 5–6 % of school-aged children worldwide, making it more common than autism in this age group.
- Gender ratio: Boys are diagnosed slightly more often than girls, though girls may be under-identified.
- Onset: Symptoms are usually noticeable before age 5 but often become clearer once academic and social demands increase.
Common Symptoms in Children
Signs can vary, yet they tend to cluster around motor planning, balance, and fine- or gross-motor skills.
- Trouble with handwriting—letters too light, too dark, or poorly spaced
- Difficulty tying shoelaces or using cutlery
- Frequent tripping or bumping into furniture
- Avoidance of sports or playground games
- Struggles to imitate movements, such as clapping games or dance steps
- Slow and effortful completion of daily routines like dressing or brushing teeth
Impact on Daily Life and Learning
Left unsupported, DCD can ripple into self-esteem, friendships, and academic performance.
- Academic: Illegible handwriting slows note-taking and test completion
- Social: Teasing or exclusion from peer activities
- Emotional: Higher rates of anxiety and low self-confidence
- Family stress: Morning routines can take twice as long, causing chronic lateness and fatigue
How Developmental Pediatrics Helps
Role of a Developmental Pediatrician
A developmental pediatrician is a doctor who specialises in how children grow and develop—physically, mentally, and socially. At Cadabams CDC, this specialist:
- Identifies DCD using standardised motor tests and developmental history
- Rules out other medical causes (e.g., cerebral palsy, visual deficits)
- Designs a personalised intervention roadmap that includes therapy goals and classroom strategies
Comprehensive Assessment Process
We leave no stone unturned to understand your child’s unique profile.
- Intake history: Parent questionnaires + school feedback
- Standardised testing: Movement Assessment Battery for Children (MABC-2), Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency
- Observation: Structured play and functional tasks in our child-friendly clinic
- Diagnostic conference: Clear explanation of findings and next steps
Timeline: One half-day appointment followed by a concise report within seven working days.
Multidisciplinary Team Approach
DCD rarely travels alone; co-occurring speech delays, ADHD, or sensory issues may surface. Our Paediatric Neurologist, Occupational Therapist, Physiotherapist, and Speech-Language Pathologist collaborate under one roof, ensuring seamless communication and holistic care.
Our DCD Services at Cadabams CDC
Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy targets the “occupations” of childhood—play, school, and self-care.
- Fine-motor skill drills (cutting, drawing, keyboarding)
- Sensory integration activities to reduce clumsiness
- Environmental tweaks: pencil grips, weighted cutlery, seating plans
Physiotherapy & Motor Training
We build strength, balance, and coordination through playful, evidence-based exercises.
- Core stability routines on Swiss balls and trampolines
- Agility ladders to improve foot placement and timing
- Virtual-reality balance games that boost engagement
Speech & Language Support (if needed)
Children with DCD may also struggle with verbal dyspraxia—difficulty planning speech movements.
- Articulation drills using visual cue cards
- Language therapy to support classroom participation
- Social-skills groups for confident peer interaction
Parent & School Guidance
Lasting change happens when families and teachers are on the same page.
- Workshops: How to break down dressing routines into manageable steps
- School visits: We observe your child in class and suggest desk positioning, extra time, or alternative assessments
- Home kits: Therapeutic games you can play with everyday items—no fancy tools required
Signs Your Child May Need an Evaluation
Age-Appropriate Milestones Checklist
Use this quick guide to gauge progress.
| Age | Red Flags |
|---|---|
| 2 yrs | Cannot jump with both feet leaving the ground |
| 3 yrs | Cannot pedal a tricycle or stack 8–10 blocks |
| 4 yrs | Cannot copy a simple cross or catch a large ball |
| 5 yrs | Cannot draw a person with at least 6 parts or cut along a straight line |
| 6–7 yrs | Persistent letter reversals, extremely slow writing, avoids PE |
Red Flags by School Age
- Teacher feedback: “She seems exhausted after every written task.”
- Homework wars: 30-minute assignments stretch to two hours
- Emotional meltdowns after seemingly minor physical tasks
When to Seek Professional Help
Trust your instincts. If daily activities feel like uphill battles despite practice and encouragement, schedule an evaluation. Early support can prevent secondary issues such as anxiety and academic lag.
Meet Our Developmental Pediatrics Team
Qualifications & Experience
- Dr. Ananya S. – 15 years in developmental pediatrics, former consultant at AIIMS
- Ms. Kavita R., OT – Sensory integration certified, 10,000+ therapy hours
- Mr. Raj P., PT – Paediatric neuro-rehab specialist, certified in CO-OP approach
- Ms. Neha G., SLP – Hanen-certified for early language stimulation
Child-Centered Approach
We use strength-based language, celebrate small wins, and adapt therapy to your child’s interests—whether that’s superheroes or space rockets.
Success Stories
- Arjun, 7: Went from illegible handwriting to winning the school handwriting contest in 6 months
- Mira, 5: Began cycling without training wheels after 12 physiotherapy sessions
- Parents of Rishi: “We finally understand why mornings were chaotic. The strategies from Cadabams CDC made breakfast time peaceful for the first time ever.”