Early Experiences and Participation Patterns of Children with Developmental Coordination Disorder

This is a qualitative research study intended to increase the understanding of children with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) by examining the observations and experiences of their parents. In this study, parents are asked about what they noticed when their child was younger and about the factors that support or hinder their child's participation in everyday activities.

Children with DCD (often referred to as clumsy or physically awkward) are children who do not have the motor skills necessary to perform age-appropriate academic tasks and self-care activities. Health care and educational systems often do not recognize or provide intervention for these children until the school years when academic and behavioural problems begin to emerge.

For information on related topics, refer to:

Missiuna, C. (2001). Children with Developmental Coordination Disorder: Strategies for Success. Special issue of Physical & Occupational Therapy in Pediatrics. Binghamton, New York: Haworth Press.


Research Team

Impact

It is expected that this study's findings will:

  • Facilitate earlier identification of children with DCD.
  • Provide new direction for the development of more timely and effective early intervention services