How to support a foster child with dyspraxia
Dyspraxia, also known as developmental co-ordination disorder, is a neurological condition affecting motor skills and general movement.
It affects 10% of the population, and males are four times more likely to have it than females.
Beacon Fostering acknowledges the challenges that come with fostering a child that has a neurodiverse condition, so if you suspect your foster child might have dyspraxia, then read on to learn about the signs and what you can do to help your child.
Signs and symptoms
While there is no known cause of dyspraxia, research has shown that possible origins lie in the connections of nerves within the brain, premature births and that it seems to run in families.
If a child has the condition, they may also have a parent with it was well. Nonetheless, signs that a child might have dyspraxia lie with how they carry out activities such as writing, typing, riding a bike and sports.
See if they bump into things frequently, have a tendency to lose balance, seem to struggle with holding a pen or pencil and/or struggle with navigation.
Helping a child in foster care
Talk to your GP about any coordination problems that your foster child may have, and they’ll refer you to an occupational therapist or paediatrician.
After your child is diagnosed, they will have an educational support plan made, with the help of their school’s SEND (special educational needs and disabilities) department.
At home, you can support your foster child by putting special grips on their pens and pencils, encourage them to get involved in tasks like cooking, and activities such as catching a ball. Your fostering agency will also likely have a support group to help you navigate your parental duties.