Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder): Understanding SBMD and Its Impact

Use this to observe patterns in motor coordination, planning, and daily functioning. If multiple signs appear frequently, consider a formal evaluation by an occupational therapist or developmental specialist.

🧠 General Coordination Difficulties

• ☐ Appears clumsy or uncoordinated
• ☐ Frequently bumps into objects or people
• ☐ Trips or falls more often than peers
• ☐ Has difficulty judging distance, depth, or space
• ☐ Struggles with balance (e.g., standing on one foot, hopping)

✋ Fine Motor Skill Challenges

• ☐ Difficulty holding a pencil correctly or writing legibly
• ☐ Trouble with tasks like buttoning, zipping, tying shoelaces
• ☐ Struggles to use scissors or utensils properly
• ☐ Avoids drawing, coloring, or detailed hand tasks
• ☐ Poor hand-eye coordination

🦶 Gross Motor Skill Delays

• ☐ Late to sit, crawl, walk, or ride a bike
• ☐ Awkward posture or gait
• ☐ Difficulty catching, throwing, or kicking a ball
• ☐ Struggles to learn coordinated movements (e.g., skipping, jumping jacks)

🧩 Motor Planning & Sequencing Issues

• ☐ Needs extra time to start or finish physical tasks
• ☐ Struggles to follow multi-step directions
• ☐ Becomes overwhelmed when routines or tasks change
• ☐ Difficulty imitating movements (e.g., clapping games, exercise routines)

📚 Academic and Classroom Indicators

• ☐ Poor handwriting or slow writing speed
• ☐ Avoids PE, handwriting, or art activities
• ☐ Trouble copying from the board
• ☐ Fatigues quickly from physical or writing tasks

😟 Emotional and Social Impact

• ☐ Easily frustrated with physical tasks
• ☐ Avoids group play or physical games
• ☐ Low self-esteem related to clumsiness or performance
• ☐ Displays anxiety or embarrassment during motor tasks

✅ Helpful Tip

If you check multiple items across several categories, especially if they interfere with daily life, a professional evaluation can help determine if dyspraxia (DCD) is present and what supports are needed.