Dyspraxia

Introduction Incidence → 5-10% of population Not so well-researched or understood as dyslexia Often picked up later than dyslexia or misdiagnosed as dyslexia Often occurs with other SpLDs e.g. dyslexia, ADHD, Asperger's Syndrome

Potential difficulties Co-ordination Memory/attention span Writing Visual Speech/language Maths Social

Potential strengths Creative/ original thinking Determination Motivation Personal strategies to overcome difficulties May read very well

Quote from expert, David Grant "Dyspraxia is similar to an iceberg in two ways. Firstly, there is a small visible part with a very considerable hidden portion. The visible part in the case of dyspraxia is the element of clumsiness and associated difficulties with motor co-ordination. The hidden aspect is the underlying difficulties with attention, memory and some tasks requiring perceptual skills. The second similarity is that, over time, the visible part becomes smaller and less noticeable. This gradual melting away analogy refers to the observation that co-ordination skills improve over time and people also learn to become 'more careful'." 'That's the way I think - Dyslexia and Dyspraxia explained'

How to help your dyspraxic students

Empathy Be aware that students are easily distracted by noise and movement Emphasise strengths and encourage use of strongest learning modalities Give genuine praise when possible Avoid comparing with peers Never humiliate Try to reduce stress e.g. avoid time pressures

In lectures Give clear handouts (ideally on buff coloured paper) Allow recording Write new terms on board Repeat and summarise points Break things into segments Use multi-sensory materials Use fewer words

In tutorials Give more time to answer questions/ perform tasks/complete coursework Allow regular breaks Give clear instructions - repeat them/supply written notes Show students exactly what is required Demonstrate procedures several times Allow other students to help them Encourage them to finish one task before starting another

Study support Help with planning and organisation (mindmapping, use of Post-Its, etc.) Help structuring writing Help with proof reading Help with reading and research Help with time management (Help with spelling/ handwriting if desired)

Exams Help with revision Organise special arrangements (e.g. scribe/reader/extra time) in good time May need separate room Marking allowances for dyspraxia (Be aware that special arrangements must reflect ‘normal way of working’)

Assistive Technology etc. Read Write Gold Mind Genius Learn to touch type at: Customise your computer at:

Further information – useful links Information for FE/HE teachers: types/dyspraxiastaff.html Dyspraxia in adults: Excellent free fact sheets: uniform/shop/freefactsheets.htm