Dear younger me: You are not broken - Written by Meghan Henderson

Supporting and Advocating for People with DCD/Dyspraxia

“What is up with my brain?” This is a question I wrestled with for years. When I was 5 years old, I was diagnosed with DCD or Developmental Coordination Disorder. There are many accommodations and opportunities I wish I could have accessed when I was first learning about and coming to terms with my DCD/dyspraxia. There are several types of people who play a part in the dyspraxia community, and two are discussed below. 

For Advocates:

Firstly, it would be helpful to have more children’s books or resources that talk about DCD/dyspraxia in an age-appropriate way. Maybe Dora the DCD Explorer (Dora the Explorer), or Yo Dyspraxia Dyspraxia (Yo Gabba Gabba). Maybe these titles need work. In any case, my parents were afraid to tell me about my DCD because they did not want it to limit me, and they thought I would not understand. While I do not blame them, I wish there had been a better way for them to communicate it to me earlier. In reality, they told me in Grade 5, after much of the groundwork was laid for my self-concept. Had it been easier for my parents to explain DCD, I could have understood myself and learned to advocate for myself earlier.

 I also think there should be more awareness about DCD/dyspraxia. Had the other kids, teachers, etc. known about dyspraxia and how it affected me, things would have been easier. I’m still learning how dyspraxia affects me. There should be dyspraxic characters in TV shows and movies, books about dyspraxia for educators, and school presentations on dyspraxia. Think “This is your brain on drugs”, only “This is your brain on dyspraxia.”
 Similarly, there is a need for research that engages people with DCD/dyspraxia. I think it would have been empowering to be regarded as an expert on DCD/dyspraxia because of my experience, and to be able to tell researchers what to look for, measure, etc. I am guessing that younger me would have liked to try the marshmallow experiment with kids with DCD. I liked marshmallows.

Accommodations are also needed:

 For example, I needed more time for science labs. I had that in high school by coming to class on my lunch break, but in university, this was not available. I also needed help in gym class, but most gym teachers did not understand. The only gym teacher who did give accommodations did not have many resources to do so. 
Further resources that are needed are videos/programs for DCD/dyspraxia and driving, exercise, etc. For example, a video or program to help people with dyspraxia learn to drive would be helpful. I never learned to drive because it always seemed intimidating. For exercise, adaptive exercise classes or groups specifically for DCD/dyspraxia would be helpful. I have found that my lack of confidence with exercise has affected my physical health later on. Also, adaptive axe throwing for people with DCD/dyspraxia would be fun.
 In addition, there needs to be therapy and emotional support geared towards DCD/dyspraxia. As this condition can impact emotions and self-esteem, I think peer support groups, tailored therapy modalities, parent support groups, and more would be very helpful. I know personally this would have made getting through high school much easier.

For caregivers:

Realistically, most of you who are supporting someone with DCD/dyspraxia do not hold a lot of power to make all these things happen. However, in your role as a caregiver, you also have an important role to play.

 
First of all, empathise with your person but help them find ways to manage. They will likely struggle with many activities as they get older, so have some understanding, but find ways to accomplish the same outcomes even if the task looks different. For example, I use a combined shampoo and conditioner in the shower so that I waste less time, I type to reduce time spent handwriting, and I wear different shoes to reduce the time I spend tying laces. These little “life hacks” make things much easier. Secondly, teach your person to advocate for themself, and be their advocate too. Some people will sadly need persuading or informing before they will act to accommodate. Advocating for oneself is an important skill one needs as a person with DCD/dyspraxia. 

In addition, be open to hearing about ways you might need to adapt to your person, such as needing to buy certain kinds of clothing to avoid sensory issues, or learning about different ways to support them. Keep an open mind!

Lastly, love can give meaning to almost any struggle, so love your person with DCD/dyspraxia. You are a crucial part of their life and support system, so just be there for them. To quote Frozen, “Love is an open door”.

While I experienced difficulties in my journey, I also developed strengths and had good times along the way. I want to sincerely thank everyone in my life who showed up for, listened to, pushed, and supported me. And the road might be hard, but good times will happen in your journey, whatever that looks like. Thank you.