Co-ordination - Part 2 (Coordination Disorders In Children)

Effects of Coordination Disorders in children

Children described using the term coordination difficulties cannot have their difficulties with movement explained by a general medical condition (Cerebral Palsy, Hemiplegia or Muscular Dystrophy) and the criteria should not meet Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD)

Children who have  coordination disorder may also have one or more of these co-morbid conditions: 

·       Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (inattention, hyperactivity, impulsive behaviour)

·         Autism spectrum disorder.

·         Dyscalculia (difficulty with numbers).

·         Dysgraphia (an inability to write neatly or draw).

·         Dyslexia (difficulty with reading and spelling).

·         Hypotonia (low muscle tone).

·         Nonverbal learning disorder.

·         Sensory processing disorder.

·         Specific language impairment (SLI).

·         Visual perception deficits.

Management strategies that support the child with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) (at preschool, school and/or home):

·   Encouragement to persist and attempt tasks.

·   Provide opportunities to succeed by simplifying activities.

·   Teach new skills in a step by step manner and keep the environment as predictable as possible during teaching.

·   Introduce new skills or environments on an individual basis before introducing peers.

·   Use simple language and instructions.

·   Provide visual as well as verbal cues.

·   Provide extra time to complete tasks.

·   Recognize and reinforce the child’s strengths.

·   Appropriate set up for school desk.

·   Set realistic and achievable goals for all task performance and completion.

·   Make participation, not competition.

    Identifying a kid with Co-ordination difficulty is crucial in the management of the condition. Proper identification at appropriate age would give better result and contribute to the overall development of the child. Identifying a child at school/Preschool level is highly recommended. Teachers working at school level should have training to identify such kids.

   If you suspect that your child might have coordination problems, it is wise to meet a Physiotherapist/ Physician/ Pediatrician. 

 

 

By

S.Mariappan

Sensory Integeration Therapist

Life Healthcare Rehabilitation Clinic Pl

moses.lhc@gmail.com