2 Definition and Terminology

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DCD has been defined as an impairment in the development of motor co-ordination that significantly interferes with activities of daily living at home and at school (e.g. dressing, holding a pencil), which is not explained by a medical condition or learning difficulties.

It is very important that all professionals and parents have a shared understanding as to the meaning of many of the technical names that are used. Indeed, many terms are currently in use to describe these children and there is much confusion as to the difference between DCD and Dyspraxia^{3, 4}

At present Developmental Co-ordination Disorder (as described in the International Statistical classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, 10th revision – ICD 10) is becoming the favoured term among clinicians and researchers. Dyspraxia is a more specific name to describe a particular aspect of DCD where the child has particular difficulties with movement planning. Many children with DCD do not have ‘Dyspraxia’ in its true sense.

However, in the UK many people at present use the term ‘Dyspraxia’ in a more general way. This should be recognised when reading literature and when producing written work. The Steering Group has therefore compiled a glossary of these terms, which are presented in Appendix B.

The appendix includes the definition of DCD in accordance with the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders – fourth edition, (DSM IV) and ICD 10 criteria, a description of the features which are commonly found in children with DCD and an explanation of the technical terms which are often used in reports and in the literature.

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