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Neurodivergent students

Overview of dyspraxia

Dyspraxia (also known as DCD or Developmental Co-ordination Disorder) is characterised by difficulties with co-ordination, but it can also involve problems with organisation, memory, concentration and speech. The medical model of dyspraxia defines it as an impairment or immaturity of the organisation of movement.  Associated with this, there may be problems of language, perception and thought. Dyspraxia often occurs with other neurodivergent conditions such as dyslexia, ADHD and autism. 

Many people with dyspraxia also have strengths in areas such as: creative thinking, problem-solving skills, empathy, communication skills, resilience, determination and resourcefulness.

Common challenges

Common challenges faced by students with dyspraxia include:

  • Taking longer than peers to learn new skills and information. 
  • Organisation, time management and task prioritisation. 
  • Structuring written work and checking for spelling, punctuation and grammar mistakes. 
  • Balance and coordination. 
  • Processing and organising information. 
  • Fine motor skills affecting handwriting, typing, craft work, lab work, using apparatus and rulers, etc. 
  • Sense of direction, confusing left and right, map reading. 
  • Losing and forgetting things. 
  • Increased sensitivity to light, sound, smell, taste etc. 
  • The ability to screen out background noise during group discussions. 
  • Anxiety, depression and poor self-esteem. 

More information about dyspraxia

Strategies for dyspraxia

  • Label boxes, cupboards, drawers etc. and group things together. Have a specific place for keys, phone, money and other important things which you always use. 
  • Get rid of things if your space is getting cluttered.
  • Break tasks down and write checklists.
  • Use your phone, Siri or Alexa to set alarms and reminders.
  • Use assistive technology tools for organisation and planning.
  • Find sports or activities that improve your coordination and dexterity which you enjoy, whether that's drumming or video games, swimming or yoga!
  • Join support groups or online forums (see above).
  • Be kind to yourself: everyone makes mistakes, but most people are too focused on their own to notice yours.
  • Try to avoid negative self talk. Instead of "I can't do this," say, "It might take a while, but I can work this out." Then, celebrate your achievements.
  • Allow extra time for tasks and travel.
  • Use noise-cancelling headphones to minimise distractions or personalise your own soundscapes.
  • Eat a balanced diet and drink plenty of water.
  • Use any implement which makes life easier, e.g. electric toothbrushes and shavers, special tin openers, magnifying mirrors, non-slip trays, pen grips etc. See the Essential Aids catalogue for ideas.
  • Choose clothes which are easy to put on and fasten. Avoid slippery or high-heeled shoes.
  • See 'A dyspraxic's guide to beauty' for some great hair and makeup ideas.
  • Check your appearance in a full-length mirror before you go out.
  • Sit down to do fiddly tasks such as preparing food or doing your makeup.