Most parents strive to get their kids involved in sports. Learning how to bounce a basketball, kick a soccer ball, or pass a hockey puck are challenges children naturally and willingly take on. Children with dyspraxia however do not pick up sports as easily as other kids. Their body cannot do what their brain is telling them to do. They often have poor coordination, both with gross motor activities like running and fine motor skills like writing. Their eye-hand coordination is off, which makes it hard for them to catch a ball. They may have poor balance and posture, and get tired easily. When you watch them run, they may look like they’re about to fall because their gait is awkward, or they might be doing something totally unnecessary like making windmills with their arms.
School is also a challenge because they often have trouble adapting to its structured routine. Their concentration and listening skills are limited. They can be excitable and emotional, and react to loud noises or commotion. Phys Ed, the class most children look forward to, is the one they dread. All the movements that come automatically to most children, they have to practice over and over again. Because of their poor fine motor skills, it may take them longer to finish their schoolwork, and do everyday tasks like buttoning their shirt, and using a knife and fork. They may have mood swings, and trouble making friends.