ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Developmental coordination disorder

Hello there! Have you ever had trouble doing things like catching a ball or tying your shoes? Some kids have a harder time with these kinds of activities than others, and that’s called developmental coordination disorder, or DCD for short.

DCD is a condition that affects how your body moves and coordinates, which makes it difficult to do certain tasks. It's like having a boss who tells you what to do, but you can't seem to make your body listen! This can make it hard to play games, be active, and even do simple daily tasks like brushing your teeth.

Doctors don't know exactly what causes DCD, but they think it might be a problem with the brain or nervous system. People with DCD might have trouble with basic things like balance, controlling their body movements, and coordinating their arms and legs together.

Some kids with DCD might need extra help to be able to do things like their peers. Doctors and therapists can work with kids who have DCD to improve their coordination skills through therapy, exercises and other things.

It’s important to remember that having DCD doesn’t mean that you can’t do anything or aren't a great kid – it just means that you might need some extra help to do things that other kids find easy. With some patience and practice, you can get better!