7 Evidence-Based Approaches Commonly Used in Dyspraxia Treatment

Dyspraxia, also known as Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), affects a person’s ability to plan and coordinate physical movement. While it can present challenges in daily activities, school, or work, there are several evidence-based approaches that can help individuals develop better motor skills, improve coordination, and boost confidence. Understanding these methods is essential for parents, educators, and professionals seeking effective dyspraxia treatment. In this article, we explore seven approaches commonly used in dyspraxia treatment, highlighting practical strategies, research support, and tips for implementation.

dyspraxia treatment

1. Occupational Therapy


Occupational therapy (OT) is widely recognised as a cornerstone of dyspraxia treatment. It focuses on helping children and adults develop the skills needed for daily life.


Key elements of OT for dyspraxia include:


  • Fine motor skill development: Activities like threading beads, drawing, or using scissors to enhance hand-eye coordination.

  • Gross motor training: Exercises to improve balance, posture, and overall body coordination.

  • Task modification: Adapting everyday activities to match a child’s current abilities, gradually increasing complexity as skills improve.


Evidence suggests that OT not only improves motor function but also enhances confidence and independence in children with dyspraxia.


2. Physiotherapy


While occupational therapy addresses daily tasks, physiotherapy focuses on the broader physical aspects of movement. Physiotherapists design exercises to strengthen muscles, enhance balance, and refine spatial awareness.


Common physiotherapy strategies include:


  • Balance and coordination drills: Activities like hopping, skipping, or obstacle courses.

  • Strength training: Using bodyweight exercises to support posture and core stability.

  • Movement sequencing: Practising complex movement patterns to improve motor planning.


Physiotherapy complements other treatments and is particularly helpful for kids who struggle with sports, playground activities, or handwriting.


3. Motor Skills Training


Motor skills training is a structured approach aimed at developing both fine and gross motor abilities through repetition and targeted exercises.


Techniques often used in motor skills training:


  • Task-specific practice: Repeatedly practising a particular activity, such as tying shoelaces or throwing a ball.

  • Breaking tasks into steps: Simplifying movements into smaller, manageable components before combining them.

  • Feedback and correction: Providing constructive feedback to refine movement and reduce frustration.


Research indicates that consistent motor skills training can significantly improve coordination, timing, and confidence in children with dyspraxia.


4. Sensory Integration Therapy


Sensory integration therapy (SIT) focuses on helping individuals process and respond to sensory information more effectively. Many people with dyspraxia experience sensory sensitivities, making movement more challenging.


SIT strategies may include:


  • Weighted vests or cushions: Providing proprioceptive input to enhance body awareness.

  • Swinging or rocking activities: Stimulating the vestibular system to improve balance.

  • Tactile exercises: Using different textures to help children adapt to sensory experiences.


When conducted by qualified professionals, sensory integration therapy can support coordination, reduce frustration, and make learning new movements easier.


5. Cognitive Orientation to Daily Occupational Performance (CO-OP)


CO-OP is a problem-solving approach that empowers children to develop strategies to achieve specific goals, particularly motor-related tasks.


Key features of CO-OP include:


  • Goal-setting: Encouraging the child to identify personal movement goals.

  • Strategy development: Helping the child find effective ways to complete a task, such as using visual cues or verbal prompts.

  • Guided discovery: Professionals guide the child to discover solutions independently rather than providing direct instructions.


CO-OP has strong research backing for improving functional motor skills and fostering independence in everyday activities.


6. Assistive Technology


Technology can play a valuable role in dyspraxia treatment, particularly for children struggling with writing, organisation, or daily tasks.


Examples include:


  • Adaptive keyboards or styluses: Supporting handwriting and typing skills.

  • Apps for motor planning: Games or programs that reinforce movement sequences and timing.

  • Voice-to-text tools: Reducing the physical demands of written work.


Using technology alongside traditional therapies can help children achieve success at school and at home while reducing frustration.


7. Multisensory Learning Approaches


Multisensory learning engages multiple senses simultaneously, supporting motor learning and cognitive development. This approach is particularly useful in educational settings for children with dyspraxia.


Techniques may include:


  • Visual aids: Colour-coded steps, charts, or diagrams to support task sequencing.

  • Auditory cues: Rhymes or verbal instructions to guide movement.

  • Hands-on learning: Combining touch, movement, and sight to reinforce skills.


Research demonstrates that multisensory approaches can enhance retention, motor planning, and confidence, particularly when combined with OT or physiotherapy.


Summary


Dyspraxia treatment involves a multi-faceted approach, combining therapy, training, technology, and sensory strategies to support motor development and everyday functioning. Evidence-based methods like occupational therapy, physiotherapy, CO-OP, sensory integration, motor skills training, assistive technology, and multisensory learning can help children and adults overcome coordination challenges and build confidence. Choosing the right combination of approaches depends on the individual’s needs, strengths, and goals. With consistent support and professional guidance, those with dyspraxia can develop essential skills, improve independence, and experience a higher quality of life. Whether you are seeking dyspraxia treatment for a child or an adult, these approaches offer practical, research-supported strategies to foster progress. Incorporating multiple evidence-based techniques ensures a holistic plan tailored to each person’s unique needs, making daily activities more manageable and enjoyable.


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