Understanding Dyspraxia Assessment
Dyspraxia, also known as Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), is a neurological condition that affects physical coordination and movement planning. A dyspraxia assessment is the first step toward understanding the specific challenges an individual may face, from difficulties with handwriting and balance to problems with organisation or fine motor skills. Accurate assessment is key to receiving proper educational, occupational, or therapeutic support.
What is a Dyspraxia Assessment?
A dyspraxia assessment is a comprehensive evaluation that examines motor skills, coordination, planning, and related cognitive functions. The assessment often includes:
Developmental history review
Standardised motor coordination tests
Cognitive and perceptual evaluations
Speech and language screening (if relevant)
Functional impact reports for school or work
The outcome is a detailed report that confirms or rules out dyspraxia and includes practical recommendations for support.
What to Expect from a Dyspraxia Assessment
When you attend a dyspraxia assessment, you can expect:
Pre-assessment questionnaires (to gather developmental or behavioural history)
Face-to-face or virtual sessions for testing motor skills, coordination, and planning
Input from parents, teachers, or employers (for child or adult assessments)
Standardised testing tools such as the Movement ABC or DCDQ
Detailed results and feedback, often in a written report
The process may take 1–2 sessions depending on age and complexity.
Who Conducts This Service?
Dyspraxia assessments are typically carried out by:
Educational psychologists
Occupational therapists with neurodevelopmental training
Paediatricians or developmental specialists
Multidisciplinary teams in health or education settings
These professionals are trained to diagnose DCD in line with official diagnostic criteria (e.g. DSM-5).
Who Might Need This Service?
A dyspraxia assessment may be beneficial for:
Children showing delayed motor milestones or poor coordination
School-age children struggling with handwriting, sports, or concentration
Teens or adults facing challenges with balance, self-organisation, or tasks at work
Anyone recently flagged by a teacher, GP, or therapist for motor planning issues
Early identification can help unlock effective support strategies and reduce stress at school or in daily life.
Types of Dyspraxia Assessment
Assessments may differ based on the provider and the age of the individual:
Child dyspraxia assessments – focused on developmental delays and school functioning
Adult dyspraxia assessments – targeting work-life challenges and coordination issues
Occupational therapy-led assessments – evaluating functional impact in daily tasks
Multidisciplinary assessments – combining cognitive, motor, and emotional evaluations
Some services also include sensory integration analysis if sensory issues are present.
The Risks Associated with Dyspraxia Assessment
There are minimal risks with dyspraxia assessments, but considerations include:
Misdiagnosis or missed diagnosis if testing is not comprehensive
Delays in support if assessment is postponed or inaccessible
Frustration or anxiety during testing (especially for young children)
Choosing a qualified professional ensures the assessment is handled with care and accuracy.
How to Choose the Right Health Professional
When looking for a dyspraxia assessment service near me, consider the following:
Qualifications in child development, psychology, or occupational therapy
Experience diagnosing and supporting individuals with DCD/dyspraxia
Access to recognised assessment tools
Clear reporting and post-diagnostic support options
Positive feedback or client reviews
My Health Assistant makes this easy by connecting you with verified providers nearby.
Summary
A professional dyspraxia assessment is a vital step in identifying Developmental Coordination Disorder and accessing the right support. Whether you're a parent concerned about your child’s development or an adult navigating coordination difficulties, the right evaluation can offer clarity and guidance. Use My Health Assistant to find a trusted dyspraxia assessment service near me and take the first step toward better understanding and managing dyspraxia today.
