Understanding Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD): How the Movement ABC Assessment Can Help
- Canadian Centre for Development
- Mar 30
- 3 min read
Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), also known as dyspraxia, is a motor skills disorder that affects a child’s ability to plan and coordinate physical movement. Though often underdiagnosed, DCD is more common than many realize—impacting approximately 5–6% of school-aged children. Children with DCD may appear clumsy or uncoordinated, struggle with everyday tasks like writing, dressing, or riding a bike, and can face challenges that affect their confidence, academic performance, and participation in social or recreational activities.
What Is Developmental Coordination Disorder?
DCD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects a child’s ability to perform motor tasks that most peers can do with ease. These difficulties go beyond occasional clumsiness and can significantly impact a child’s daily life.
Children with DCD may:
Have trouble with fine motor skills like handwriting, cutting, or using buttons
Struggle with gross motor tasks like jumping, skipping, or balancing
Avoid sports or physical activities due to frustration or fear of failure
Become socially withdrawn or anxious due to challenges with coordination
Early identification and support are crucial in helping children with DCD build confidence, develop skills, and thrive both at home and in school.
How Can We Identify DCD?
One of the most effective assessments professionals use to evaluate motor skills and detect potential DCD is the Movement Assessment Battery for Children—commonly known as the Movement ABC (or MABC-2).
What Is the Movement ABC?
The Movement ABC is a standardized assessment used by occupational therapists, physiotherapists, and other pediatric professionals to evaluate a child’s motor functioning. It is designed for children aged 3 to 16 years and looks at three main areas:
Manual Dexterity – tasks like threading beads or turning pegs that test fine motor control
Aiming and Catching – activities like catching or throwing a beanbag, evaluating hand-eye coordination
Balance – tasks such as walking heel-to-toe or standing on one leg to assess postural control
Each activity is scored and compared to age norms, helping determine whether a child’s motor skills are within the expected range or if they may benefit from additional support.
Why Is the Movement ABC Valuable?
The Movement ABC isn’t just a diagnostic tool—it’s a gateway to early intervention. Here’s how it helps:
Objective Insights: It offers a clear, evidence-based picture of a child’s motor strengths and challenges.
Early Identification: It supports early recognition of DCD, which can lead to timely therapeutic support.
Targeted Intervention: Results help therapists develop personalized intervention plans that address specific needs.
Progress Tracking: The assessment can be repeated over time to measure improvement and refine strategies.
School Support: The findings can inform Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) or classroom accommodations.
How to Get Started
If you suspect your child may be struggling with motor coordination, contact us about scheduling a Movement ABC assessment. Early identification of DCD, paired with appropriate intervention, can make a world of difference in a child’s development and self-esteem.
At the Canadian Centre for Development, our multidisciplinary team is trained in the Movement ABC and experienced in working with children with DCD and other motor-based challenges. We’re here to support your child in building confidence, skills, and a lifelong love for movement.
Interested in booking a Movement ABC Assessment for your child? We Can Help!
📞 Contact us at 403-206-7466.