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Clumsy children. Primer on developmental coordination disorder

A M Fox1, B Lent

  • 1University of Western Ontario.

Canadian Family Physician Medecin De Famille Canadien
|October 1, 1996
PubMed

Insights

Many children struggle with motor coordination, a condition known as developmental coordination disorder. This condition persists and is not outgrown, necessitating early identification by healthcare providers.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Developmental Psychology
  • Neurology

Background:

  • Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) affects approximately 6% of children.
  • Clumsiness in childhood is often incorrectly assumed to be temporary.
  • Early identification of motor skill deficits is crucial for intervention.

Observation:

  • Recent studies over 15 years challenge the notion that children outgrow clumsiness.
  • A significant percentage of children exhibit persistent difficulties with motor coordination.
  • These difficulties impact the ability to perform age-appropriate tasks.

Findings:

  • The assumption that childhood clumsiness resolves naturally is not supported by scientific evidence.
  • Developmental Coordination Disorder is a recognized condition impacting motor skills.
  • Children with DCD require targeted support and intervention.

Implications:

  • Increased awareness of DCD among healthcare professionals can improve diagnosis rates.
  • Family physicians play a key role in screening for motor skill deficits in young children.
  • Early detection and intervention can mitigate long-term impacts of DCD on a child's development.

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