Dyspraxia (also called developmental coordination disorder or DCD) and autism frequently co-occur. Research suggests that 50-80% of autistic children also have some degree of motor coordination difficulties consistent with dyspraxia.

What Is Dyspraxia?

Dyspraxia is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting motor planning and coordination. It makes it difficult to plan, organize, and execute physical movements. This can affect handwriting, sports, dressing, eating, and other activities requiring coordinated movement.

How It Overlaps with Autism

• Both involve differences in brain development and neural connectivity
• Motor planning difficulties can affect speech production in both conditions
• Both can involve sensory processing differences
• Social participation can be affected by both social communication challenges and motor difficulties

Diagnosis and Treatment

Occupational therapy is the primary treatment for dyspraxia, while ABA therapy addresses the autism-related challenges. When both conditions are present, a coordinated treatment approach produces the best outcomes. Contact Treetop ABA Therapy to discuss comprehensive support.