Assessment, diagnosis, and management of developmental coordination disorder

Angie Ip1, Elizabeth C R Mickelson1, Jill G Zwicker1

  • 1Canadian Paediatric Society, Developmental Paediatrics Section, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

Paediatrics & Child Health
|September 23, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Developmental coordination disorder (DCD) affects 5-6% of children and can impact lifelong functioning. This guide helps pediatricians identify and manage DCD, improving early recognition and diagnosis.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders
  • Child Health

Background:

  • Developmental coordination disorder (DCD) is a common neurodevelopmental condition in school-aged children.
  • DCD significantly impacts early development and long-term functioning.
  • Despite evidence for effective interventions, DCD remains under-recognized and under-diagnosed.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide pediatricians with a practical guide for diagnosing and managing uncomplicated cases of DCD.
  • To support healthcare professionals in identifying children with DCD.
  • To improve the clinical management of DCD.

Main Methods:

  • This practice point synthesizes current evidence and clinical guidelines.
  • Accompanying tables offer diagnostic and management support.
  • Focuses on uncomplicated presentations of DCD.

Main Results:

  • Provides clear criteria for diagnosing DCD in pediatric practice.
  • Outlines evidence-based strategies for managing DCD.
  • Highlights the crucial role of pediatricians in DCD identification.

Conclusions:

  • Early identification and management of DCD by pediatricians are essential.
  • This resource aims to enhance pediatricians' confidence and competence in addressing DCD.
  • Improved diagnostic and management practices can lead to better outcomes for children with DCD.

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