Understanding Dyspraxia: Strengths and thinking styles

What is Dyspraxia?

Dyspraxia, also known as Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), is a neurological condition that affects physical coordination and motor skills. It impacts the planning and execution of movements and can also affect speech. Individuals with dyspraxia might struggle with activities that require fine motor skills, such as writing or tying shoelaces and may have difficulty with tasks that require coordination, like playing sports.

Strengths of individuals with Dyspraxia

Despite the challenges, individuals with dyspraxia possess unique strengths and capabilities:

1. Creativity: Many people with dyspraxia are highly creative, excelling in fields such as art, music, and storytelling. Their ability to think outside the box allows them to come up with innovative solutions and ideas.
2. Problem-Solving: Dyspraxic individuals often develop excellent problem-solving skills as they find alternative ways to complete tasks that others might take for granted.
3. Determination and Resilience: The daily challenges faced by those with dyspraxia often result in high levels of perseverance and resilience.
4. Empathy and Compassion: Experiencing difficulties can lead to a deep understanding and empathy for others facing challenges.

How People with Dyspraxia Think

1. Holistic thinking: People with dyspraxia tend to be holistic thinkers, meaning they see the big picture rather than focusing on individual components. This can be advantageous in fields that require strategic thinking and long-term planning.
2. Visual and spatial awareness: They often have strong visual and spatial awareness, which can be beneficial in areas such as design, architecture and engineering.
3. Innovative approaches: Due to their need to find alternative methods to complete tasks, individuals with dyspraxia often develop innovative approaches to problem-solving.
4. Attention to detail: When engaged in tasks they are passionate about, people with dyspraxia can exhibit exceptional attention to detail.

Key characteristics of Dyspraxia:

1. Coordination: Difficulty with both fine and gross motor skills, making tasks that require precise movements challenging.
2. Speech and language: Potential difficulties with articulation and speech patterns, often requiring speech therapy.
3. Organisation and planning: Challenges with planning and executing tasks in a structured manner.
4. Sensory sensitivities: Over-sensitivity or under-sensitivity to sensory stimuli, which can affect everyday activities.

Supporting Dyspraxic individuals

To support individuals with dyspraxia, especially in educational and workplace settings, consider the following strategies:

1. Adapted learning environments: Provide tools and resources that cater to their unique needs, such as speech-to-text software, ergonomic tools and extended time for tasks.
2. Clear instructions: Break down tasks into smaller, manageable steps with clear, concise instructions.
3. Positive reinforcement: Focus on strengths and achievements to build confidence and motivation.
4. Sensory-friendly spaces: Create environments that minimise sensory overload, with appropriate lighting, quiet areas and minimal distractions.
5. Practical Support: Offer occupational therapy and physical therapy to improve coordination and motor skills.

By recognising and nurturing the strengths of individuals with dyspraxia and understanding how they think, we can create more inclusive and supportive environments that allow them to succeed.

Sources:

1. Dyspraxia Foundation
2. Child Mind Institute on Supporting Neurodiverse Students
3. OECD Education and Skills Today