A disorder that is characterized by difficulty in muscle control, which causes problems with movement and coordination, language and speech, and can affect learning. Although not a learning disability, Dyspraxia often exists along with Dyslexia, Dyscalculia or ADHD.

Signs and Symptoms

• Exhibits poor balance; may appear clumsy; may frequently stumble
• Shows difficulty with motor planning
• Demonstrates inability to coordinate both sides of the body
• Has poor hand-eye coordination
• Exhibits weakness in the ability to organize self and belongings
• Shows possible sensitivity to touch
• May be distressed by loud noises or constant noises like the ticking of a clock or someone tapping a pencil
• May break things or choose toys that do not require skilled manipulation
• Has difficulty with fine motor tasks such as coloring between the lines, putting puzzles together; cutting accurately or pasting neatly
• Irritated by scratchy, rough, tight or heavy clothing

Strategies

• Pre-set child for touch with verbal prompts, “I’m going to touch your right hand.”
• Avoid touching from behind or getting too close and make sure peers are aware of this
• Provide a quiet place, without auditory or visual distractions, for testing, silent reading or work that requires great concentration
• Whisper when working one to one with the child
• Be cognizant of light and light sources that may be irritating to child
• Use manipulatives, but make sure they are in child’s field of vision and don’t force child to touch them