Overview

Dyspraxia, also known as Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), is a neurological condition that affects motor planning, coordination, and the ability to carry out physical tasks. It can impact fine and gross motor skills, organization, and daily living activities. Dyspraxia is present from childhood and varies widely in how it affects each individual.

Dyspraxia is not related to intelligence, effort, or motivation. It reflects differences in how the brain plans and executes movement—and with understanding and support, individuals can build strategies that work for them.

How Dyspraxia May Present

Dyspraxia can look different for each individual and may include:

• Difficulty with balance, coordination, or spatial awareness

• Challenges with fine motor tasks such as writing, buttoning, or using utensils

• Trouble learning new motor skills or following multi-step instructions

• Clumsiness or frequent accidents

• Fatigue from the extra effort required to complete everyday tasks

• Difficulty organizing materials or managing time

Motor planning challenges may affect both physical and cognitive tasks.

Common Experiences

Individuals with dyspraxia may experience:

• Frustration when tasks take more effort than expected

• Being misunderstood as careless or uncoordinated

• Strong verbal, creative, or problem-solving skills

• Anxiety in fast-paced or physically demanding environments

• Increased confidence when given extra time or alternative methods

Dyspraxia affects how tasks are completed—not the ability to learn or succeed.

Support Looks Different for Everyone

Support for dyspraxia focuses on access, flexibility, and skill-building. Support may include:

• Occupational or physical therapy

• Task breakdown and step-by-step instruction

• Assistive tools or adaptive strategies

• Extra time for motor-based tasks

• Supportive learning or work environments

Support is most effective when expectations are flexible and strengths are recognized.

For Families & Caregivers

Families and caregivers often advocate for understanding and appropriate accommodations—especially since dyspraxia is less widely recognized than other neurodevelopmental differences. Early support can reduce frustration, but meaningful support is valuable at any age.

Encouragement and patience help build independence and confidence.

How Infinity Pathways Supports Dyspraxia

Infinity Pathways creates resources that help individuals and caregivers communicate motor and organizational needs, request accommodations, and navigate daily routines with greater clarity. Our tools support dignity, independence, and understanding—without pressure to “keep up.”

Relationship to Other Conditions

Dyspraxia may occur alongside or be discussed with:

• ADHD

• Autism Spectrum Differences

• Dyslexia

• Sensory Processing Differences

• Executive Function Differences

Recognizing overlap helps ensure comprehensive and compassionate support.

A Note on Language

Some individuals prefer the term “dyspraxia,” while others use “Developmental Coordination Disorder.” At Infinity Pathways, we respect personal preference and focus on language that honors lived experience.