Family Support for Developmental Coordination Disorder | Cadabams CDC
Family support for developmental coordination disorder (DCD) is the single most powerful predictor of a child’s long-term success. At Cadabams CDC, we partner with parents, siblings and even grandparents so that every household becomes a place of confident movement and joyful learning. This guide explains why family involvement matters, what our evidence-based programme looks like, and how you can start today.
Why Family Support Matters in Developmental Coordination Disorder
Developmental coordination disorder touches every corner of daily life—buttoning shirts, pouring juice, or keeping up on the playground. When parents and caregivers receive clear guidance, the entire family experiences less stress and more shared victories.
Impact on Daily Family Life
- Morning routines shorten because children master zippers and shoelaces faster.
- Mealtimes feel calmer when spill-proof cups and ergonomic cutlery are introduced at home.
- Weekend outings become possible again once balance-boosting games are practised in the living room.
Long-term Benefits of Early Family Guidance
Research shows that early family support for developmental coordination disorder improves:
- Self-esteem scores by up to 35% in primary school.
- Peer relationships, because siblings learn inclusive play strategies.
- Parental mental-health ratings, cutting caregiver burnout by nearly half.
Cadabam’s Family-Centred Approach to Developmental Coordination Disorder
At Cadabams CDC, we never treat the child in isolation. Our model places the family at the centre of every plan.
Multidisciplinary Team Overview
- Child development specialists assess motor, sensory and social skills.
- Occupational therapists design fine- and gross-motor activities.
- Psychologists provide emotional coping tools for both child and parents.
- Special educators liaise with schools to align goals.
Individualised Family Support Plans
Each plan is built in three steps:
- Strengths & challenges mapping with parents.
- Priority goal setting (e.g., tying shoelaces in 4 weeks).
- Monthly review so strategies evolve with the child’s growth.
Core Components of Our Family Support Programme
Parent & Caregiver Skills Training
- Weekly 60-minute workshops on motor-skill adaptation.
- Video feedback sessions so you can see progress.
- Handouts translated into five regional languages.
Sibling Support Workshops
- Fun role-play games to teach patience and encouragement.
- “Big Buddy” charts where siblings earn stars for helpful moments.
Home-Based Coordination Strategies
- Mini obstacle courses using couch cushions.
- Kitchen helper stools for safe counter-height tasks.
- Visual schedules that break down dressing into three clear steps.
Comparative Advantages of Our Support Services
| Cadabams CDC Programme | Generic Therapy Options |
|---|---|
| Whole-family coaching included | Child-only sessions common |
| Home-visit follow-ups every 3 weeks | Clinic-only appointments |
| School collaboration resources | Minimal teacher liaison |
| Grandparent orientation sessions | Rarely addressed |
How We Differ from Generic Therapy
We believe therapy ends where daily life begins. That’s why our occupational therapists for DCD train you inside your actual kitchen, not a mock-up clinic room.
Getting Started: Assessment & Enrolment Process
Step-by-Step Guide
- Enquiry Call – Share your concerns; receive a free 15-minute screening.
- In-Person Assessment – 90-minute motor, sensory and family dynamic evaluation.
- Plan Presentation – Meet the team, review goals, and set session frequency.
- First Coaching Session – Practice new strategies together with real tasks (e.g., spreading jam on bread).
What to Expect in the First Session
- A relaxed playroom with toys and assessment tools.
- Parents receive a “tip sheet” before leaving.
- Siblings are welcome to join; we often turn assessment into a game.