Understanding, support, and strategies for those living with developmental coordination difficulties
At 10 years old, Alex is bright, imaginative, and full of ideas. He loves science and storytelling, and can talk for hours about the things that interest him. But school is a daily battle. Not because of a lack of intelligence or motivation quite the opposite. It’s tying shoelaces, catching a ball in PE, writing legibly, and getting organised for the school day that feel almost impossible. Tasks that seem easy for other kids take Alex extra time, effort, and often end in tears or frustration.
His teachers sometimes misinterpret his slow pace or clumsy handwriting as laziness. Peers make comments when he drops things or avoids team sports. At home, the meltdowns come after holding it together all day. His parents can see how hard he’s trying, but they’re at a loss for how to help. That’s where understanding dyspraxia, also known as Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), becomes critical.
What Is Dyspraxia?
Dyspraxia is a neurological condition that affects motor skill development and coordination. It can also impact planning and executing movements—making everyday tasks a significant challenge. But dyspraxia is more than “being clumsy.” It can touch nearly every area of life: dressing, writing, participating in sports, using cutlery, organising schoolwork, or managing time..
The Real Struggle: Confidence and Emotional Fatigue
For many individuals with dyspraxia, like Alex, one of the biggest hurdles isn’t the physical coordination itself—it’s the emotional toll of constantly falling behind or feeling “different.”
Children may start to feel defeated or anxious about trying new tasks, especially when they’re repeatedly met with criticism or misunderstanding. Teens and adults might avoid situations where they feel exposed or inadequate. This can lead to low self-esteem, anxiety, or even depressive symptoms.
Imagine being constantly told to “try harder” or “just concentrate,” when in reality your brain and body are working overtime just to manage what comes easily to others. That level of effort—day after day—can feel exhausting.
How Psychology Can Help
At Creating Change Psychology, we understand that dyspraxia is not just a physical challenge—it’s an emotional and social one too. Our role is to support clients like Alex (and their families) in making sense of their experiences, building coping strategies, and improving emotional resilience.
Psychologists can help with:
- Helping children and teens reframe their challenges and develop a positive sense of identity
- Building emotional regulation and confidence through strength-based approaches
- Supporting executive functioning—planning, organisation, and time management
- Identifying comorbid challenges such as ADHD or anxiety
- Creating a collaborative plan with teachers, occupational therapists, and parents
Small Wins, Big Impact
For Alex, learning to celebrate small milestones—like managing his morning routine more independently or finishing a school project without breaking down—has been transformative. With the right support, his parents feel more equipped, and his teachers have a better understanding of what helps.
Alex still faces challenges, but now he faces them with strategies, self-knowledge, and growing belief in his ability to improve.
If This Sounds Familiar…
If you know a child, teen, or even adult who struggles with coordination, frustration, or falling behind in daily tasks, they may be experiencing dyspraxia. You don’t have to navigate this alone.
At Creating Change, we offer assessments, support, and tailored therapy to empower individuals with dyspraxia and help them thrive. Let’s work together to create lasting, confident change.
Written by Clinical Psychologist Rebecca Deane – www.creatingchange.net.au
Psychology support in the Hills District, Western Sydney & Surrounds (including Rouse Hill, Bella Vista, Glenwood, Castle Hill, Kellyville, The Hawkesbury, Penrith Nepean, Blacktown, Epping, Ryde, Pennant Hills areas and surrounds)
