When my son was three, we were told he was of age to get a formal diagnosis. We went to a developmental center where he was given extensive tests by specialists. One of his diagnosis was Developmental Coordination Disorder.
Developmental Coordination Disorder also known as DCD is a neurological disorder. It is common in Sensory Processing Disorder and affects motor planning and coordination. One big struggle he had was putting movements together. For example, he could kick a ball if he was standing still, but struggle with running to kick a ball. He would trip when running or he would miss the target. When he went after a ball, it would remind me of Charlie Brown running to kick a football. My son had bad timing, poor balance, trouble coordinating steps together, and trouble with spatial awareness.
Upon getting this diagnosis, we increased his time in Physical Therapy. For three years he worked hard developing strength, coordination, and balance. Recently, he tested out of Physical Therapy. Even though he still struggled with some tasks, he has shown amazing improvement.
Today when I picked him up at school, his class was finishing PE. The task was running a mile. I got to watch my son in perfect running form cross the finish line first. Yes, you heard me right, FIRST! I was in tears. I was just so proud. What a testimony this little miracle boy is! He certainly is an overcomer destined for greatness.
