We’ve collated some of the best books* out there for understanding dyspraxia for parents/carers of children with dyspraxia.

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Developmental Dyspraxia: Identification and Intervention: A Manual for Parents and Professionals

First published in 2007. Research suggests that between five and ten per cent of all children are dyspraxic. There is much debate about the nature of this disorder and many undiagnosed youngsters are denied access to treatment programmes. In most areas specialist provision is a scarce resource and support, when available, is delivered through parents and teachers. This second edition of Madeleine Portwood’s successful manual aims to give parents, teachers and health professionals the confidence to diagnose and assess dyspraxia. Most importantly. it offers them an intervention programme which will significantly improve the cognitive functioning of the dyspraxic child or teenager. Updated in light of the author’s new and extensive research, the book provides the reader with: background information on the neurological basis of the condition; strategies for identification/diagnosis and assessment; proven programmes of intervention which can be monitored by anyone closely involved with the child; strategies to improve curricular attainments; remediation activities to develop perceptual and motor skills; programmes to develop self-esteem information about where to find help.

Click here to buy on Amazon.

The Power of Different

Psychiatrist and bestselling author Gail Saltz examines the latest scientific discoveries, profiles famous geniuses who have been diagnosed with all manner of brain “problems” including learning disabilities, ADD, anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and Autism and tells the stories of lay individuals to show how the source of our struggles can be the origin of our greatest strengths. Rooted in her experience as a professor and practicing psychiatrist, and based on the latest neuropsychiatric research, Saltz demonstrates how specific deficits in certain areas of the brain are directly associated with the potential for great talent. She also shows how the very conditions that can cause difficulty in life are bound to creative, disciplinary, artistic, empathetic, and cognitive abilities. In this pioneering work, readers will find engaging research and stories from historical geniuses and everyday individuals who have not only made the most of their conditions, but who have flourished because of them. They are leaning into their brain differences to: “Identify areas of interest and expertise”. “Develop work-arounds”. “Create the environments that best foster their talents “Forge rewarding interpersonal relationships. Enlightening and inspiring, The Power of Different shows how the unique wiring of every brain can be a source of strength and productivity, and can contribute to the richness of our world.

Click here to buy on Amazon.

Dyspraxia: Developmental Co-ordination Disorder

A parents’ guide from pre-school to adulthood – Dyspraxia – The hidden handicap by Dr Amanda Kirby. Dyspraxia, a condition which causes coordination difficulties, also known as Developmental Co-ordination Disorder (DCD), is truly a hidden handicap and one that can lead to severe educational and social problems for the child. Affecting three times as many boys as girls, it can make the child a social outcast, provoke bullying and seriously damage his self-esteem. Yet outwardly he appears like all other children. Amanda Kirby, a doctor whose second son has dyspraxia, writes from long experience of the questions parents ask and of strategies that help the child to overcome his problems. Mindful that the condition may be diagnosed at any stage, she covers the years from pre-school to adulthood, offering practical improvement techniques for home and school, and discussing the implications of the condition for the child’s future. She deals sympathetically with the emotional reactions of parents, siblings and, not least, the child himself, and suggests positive ways of coping with them. What most parents want above all is information – about causes, symptoms, diagnostic procedures and other possible conditions. The book explains all these in simple terms and also includes a glossary of technical words that may be used by professionals. A full list of resources makes the book a valuable source of reference for expert help and support. Illustrated with cheerful drawings by Sian Koppel, this hopeful, practical book can help bring about real improvements in the lives of children who have dyspraxia.

Click here to buy on Amazon.

Knowing No Boundaries: A memoir of my life with dyslexia, dyspraxia and sensory processing disorder.

Hannah Daly is a paediatric Occupational Therapist and an advanced Sensory Integration Practitioner who is profoundly dyslexic, dyspraxic and has sensory processing disorder. She has multiple university degrees, but still cannot read or write.
In ‘KNOWING NO BOUNDARIES’, she gives an honest account of living with these hidden disabilities. This book is a unique coming-of-age, feel good memoir that strikes the balance of vulnerability and humour. The narrative is accessible, informative and emotionally provocative. In telling her life story, Hannah demonstrates her determination and perseverance as she continually pushes boundaries and embraces the challenges of being neuro-diverse. Her story of success in the most unlikely of circumstances encourages us all to be braver and more accepting of difference.

Click here to buy on Amazon.

Max and Me: A Story About Sensory Processing

The story offers an explanation of how sensory information is processed using the analogy of a ‘modulator’, who living in the brain has the job of receiving messages from the senses and then deciding the best thing for the body to do. Once Max gets to know his modulator and how to work together with him, things start to go better for him. The workbook format is designed to allow children to reflect on the story and working together with an adult, get to know their own ‘modulator’. Max and Me is a resource for therapists, teachers, SENCOs, parents and children.

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100 Ideas for Supporting Pupils with Dyspraxia and DCD (Continuum One Hundreds)

This useful, resourceful and practical guide provides those working with dyspraxic and DCD children one hundred ideas of how to support and develop their learning. Lists cover the entire school age range and range from developing fine and gross motor skills to preparing children for their next transition either to the next stage of schooling or for their future careers.

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Guide to Dyspraxia and Developmental Coordination Disorders

Built upon the good practice for which the Dyscovery Centre has become so well known, this book takes a broader view of the difficulties that those with additional needs face. It considers whether this is a health, educational or social difficulty and what the wider implications are for the individual and how they manage at home and in the community.

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The Adolescent with Developmental Co-ordination Disorder (DCD)

Adolescence is hard for most of us, but for an individual with Developmental Co-ordination Disorder (DCD) it can be twice as hard. Amanda Kirby, Medical Director of the Dyscovery Centre and the mother of a DCD child herself, addresses the main difficulties encountered by adolescents with DCD, including building relationships and coping with secondary school. With a common sense approach she provides a series of practical ideas on how individuals can tackle these difficulties, making The Adolescent with Developmental Co-ordination Disorder an essential resource for adolescents with DCD, as well as parents, teachers and health professionals.

Click here to buy on Amazon.

How to Increase the Potential of Students with DCD (Dyspraxia) in Secondary School

The structure of secondary education demands that young people are well-organised, self-sufficient, increasingly autonomous learners, who can cope with a wide range of teachers and a diverse timetable based around multiple locations and buildings. However, a substantial number of young people have motor co-ordination and perceptual difficulties which affect their participation in class activities. This condition was previously termed ‘dyspraxia’ but is now more universally referred to as ‘developmental coordination disorder’ or DCD. This book will provide readers with an insight into how DCD can affect students at Key Stages 3 and 4, and provide some practical strategies to help each young person to reach their potential. It is also intended to help parents/carers of young people with DCD to understand the potential help available to their child as they transition into secondary education. MORE ABOUT THE BOOK: For pupils with DCD, poor handwriting, erratic organisation, and difficulties with reading, mathematics and physical education may have been noted at primary school with their associated detrimental effect on academic success, peer relationships, social skills and self-confidence. However, these issues are felt more keenly in secondary school due to the desire to ‘fit-in’ and be accepted by a potentially large and often unforgiving peer group. This book is intended to inspire teachers and health care professionals to: understand the unique needs of young people with DCD; understand why young people with DCD have difficulties in perceptual and motor planning; appreciate the impact of DCD on learning; consider the added influence of peer-pressure and puberty on DCD; provide practical strategies to help; consider post-16 and vocational training. It is also intended to help parents/carers of young people with DCD to understand the potential help available to their child as they transition into secondary education.

Click here to buy on Amazon.

Hands on Dyspraxia: Developmental Coordination Disorder: Supporting Young People with Motor and Sensory Challenges

This updated new edition is a practical guidebook for parents, teachers and other professionals supporting children with sensory and motor learning difficulties. It offers an understanding of developmental coordination disorder (DCD), and the impact that this can have in both home and school settings. Each chapter offers practical ‘hands-on’ strategies, activities and ideas for managing the effects of the condition as well as providing a sound medical and physiological understanding of the condition to facilitate access to education and everyday living.

Each chapter contains: a clear explanation of potential challenges that people with DCD and coexisting conditions face, with an introductory definition, along with reference to current terminology; exploration of the implications of these challenges on home life, educational and social environments; and practical strategies and ideas to help the child or young person reach their full potential.

Written by occupational therapists with extensive experience of DCD/dyspraxia and possible associated conditions, this book is structured in an accessible way, suitable for: parents, carers, teachers or health professionals seeking guidance for the young people they support. This is a must read for anybody looking to support children and young people with this often misunderstood condition.

Click here to buy on Amazon.

Toolkit for parents/carers of school-aged children with dyspraxia/DCD

This toolkit was developed by the Dyspraxia Foundation for parents/carers of young people with dyspraxia (also known as developmental coordination disorder – DCD), a condition that affects gross and fine motor coordination in children and adults and that can also affect speech, organisational and planning skills, memory and perception. The toolkit offers a wealth of information and practical suggestions to help parents address the daily challenges experienced by children with dyspraxia/DCD at home, at school and in their leisure activities. The techniques and tools included in this toolkit will help parents/carers build their child’s independence and resilience, ensuring they can reach their potential in all areas of life. Chapters include information about dyspraxia/DCD; accessing professional help; how parents/carers can help at home; working in partnership with schools; supporting your child’s wellbeing; and supporting your child’s participation in social and leisure activities. This toolkit is essential reading for parents/carers of children who have dyspraxia/DCD, for parents/carers of children who are waiting for an assessment, and for parents/carers who are concerned about their child’s motor/organisational development and who want to do something ‘while they wait’ for professional assessment or support.

Click here to buy on Amazon.

All About Dyspraxia: Understanding Developmental Coordination Disorder

All About Dyspraxia follows in the best-selling footsteps of Kathy Hoopmann’s All Cats are on the Autism Spectrum and All Dogs have ADHD. Through engaging text and full-colour photographs, this book shows how people with dyspraxia see and experience the world and highlights the unique characteristics that make them special.
A perfect introduction to dyspraxia for those recently diagnosed with the condition, as well as their families, friends, and the people who work with them. People with dyspraxia will also appreciate the book for the way it shares their perspectives on life with care and gentle humour.

Click here to buy on Amazon.

Developmental Coordination Disorder (Dyspraxia): How to Help

HOW TO HELP young people manage physical coordination challenges and flourish…
Sometimes called ‘dyspraxia’, Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) is a frequently under-detected condition that chiefly affects physical coordination but also impacts on many other areas of life. It is often seen as an ‘enigma condition’ due to the lack of consensus regarding definitions and terminology. However it is described, it is critical for professionals and families to understand and support the issues and challenges experienced by the individual, rather than focusing on a ‘label’.
Part of an exciting new series of books examining issues commonly faced by today’s young people at home and at school, Developmental Coordination Disorder (Dyspraxia) provides a practical, jargon-free guide to helping individuals achieve greater independence and participation at school and in daily life. Seeking to dispel myths about DCD, experienced occupational therapists Sue LLoyd and Laura Graham explore the issues and challenges commonly faced by a young person affected by the condition – and show parents, carers, teachers and schools HOW TO HELP.

Click here to buy on Amazon.

Raising Kids with Hidden Disabilities: Getting It

A reassuring and relatable guide for parents of children with a hidden disability, including autism, ADHD, bipolar and OCD. When it comes to parenting a child with a hidden disability, everyone seems to have an opinion. Here, Naomi Simmons writes from experience, offering new solutions for when conventional parenting strategies just don’t work. Whether it be high functioning autism, ADHD, OCD, a mood or anxiety disorder with or without a diagnosis, if you have a child with any hidden disability, this is the audiobook for you. Naomi Simmons is a parent of children with a range of hidden disabilities. She provides candid guidance on how best to support children in this situation—dealing with meltdowns, school avoidance, self-harm, anxiety and depression—and shares the experiences of others who really do ‘get it’. Addressing common concerns and hurdles, this audiobook helps you respond to your child’s needs and challenges while developing their unique strengths and talents.

Click here to buy on Amazon.

Can I tell you about Dyspraxia?: A guide for friends, family and professionals

Meet Marco – a boy with dyspraxia, which is sometimes called Developmental Co-ordination Disorder (DCD). Marco invites readers to learn about dyspraxia from his perspective, helping them to understand what it is and what it feels like when he sometimes struggles to control his movement and co-ordination. He talks about the challenges of having dyspraxia and lets readers know how he can be helped and supported. This illustrated book will be an ideal introduction for young people, aged 7 upwards, as well as parents, friends, teachers and professionals working with children with dyspraxia. It is also an excellent starting point for family and classroom discussions.

Click here to buy on Amazon.

DYSPRAXIA – The Foundations

A comprehensive introduction to dyspraxia with quick and easy e- links to relevant information on the Dyspraxia Foundation website. The book covers, diagnosis, what dyspraxia is and isn’t, its impact, movement difficulties, family issues, visual learning difficulties,support strategies and more. This is an excellent and inexpensive book for those starting out on their journey with dyspraxia, but equally is excellent additional information for anyone interested in the condition, with prior knowledge, or who supports someone with the condition. It avoids complicated jargon and is a really accessible book which can be read as a whole or dipped into as needs arise. It is the only book to date with a detailed chapter on visual learning difficulties written by an expert in the field.
The books author, Gill Dixon lives with three family members with the condition who are diagnosed from mild to severe. She is also a nurse and a teacher and so offers a unique perspective with a foot in health, education and as someone directly affected by the condition. Gill has written two other books on dyspraxia and is currently vice Chairman of the Dyspraxia Foundation. All proceeds from this book will go directly to the Charity in a bid to help it continue its excellent work. A welcome addition to any bookshelf and it will enable the reader to appreciate that dyspraxia is very much more than just a motor difficulty. It is a complex and subtle condition that impacts on every aspect of a person’s life.

Click here to buy on Amazon.

How to Understand and Support Children with Dyspraxia

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The Dyspraxic Learner: Strategies for Success

With a wealth of practical strategies for teaching and supporting students with dyspraxia aged from 11 years up to college or university level, this book addresses all aspects of learning and ways in which teaching can be tailored to the dyspraxic learner.
By exploring dyspraxia and its physical, emotional, psychological and social impacts on learning, the author shares tried-and-tested strategies for ensuring that students with dyspraxia achieve their full potential. This book covers a wide range of topics, such as research and study skills, improving memory, teaching literacy, visual and auditory learning styles, dealing with sleeplessness, stress, low self-esteem and anxiety, and preparing for future employment. Teachers will have a greater understanding of dyspraxia, and feel confident in helping students with dyspraxia to overcome educational challenges.
Teachers, lecturers, tutors and SENCOs will find this book useful, and it will also be of interest to students with dyspraxia who are looking for ways to help themselves with their school or university work.

Click here to buy on Amazon.

You’re So Clumsy Charley: Having Dyspraxia, Dyslexia, ADHD, Asperger’s or Autism Does Not Make You Stupid

Charley always seemed to get into trouble, though he didn’t mean to. He was getting fed up of going to school because he felt different from most of the other kids. Then he met his Aunty Bella. And everything changed.

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Dyspraxia 5-14: Identifying and Supporting Young People with Movement Difficulties (nasen spotlight)

Dyspraxia is increasingly common in young children. This fully revised and updated edition of Christine Macintyre’s invaluable companion explains the difficulties faced by children with dyspraxia in growing up and offers suggestions as to how these might be alleviated.

In this book the children themselves, along with their parents and teachers, talk about how the difficulties change as the transition is made from primary to secondary school.

Children with dyspraxia are frequently beset by frustrations as a result of their differences, can be misunderstood both at home and at school, and are very often bullied.

Click here to buy on Amazon.

Can’t Play Won’t Play: Simply Sizzling Ideas to get the Ball Rolling for Children with Dyspraxia

Learning to roller skate or ride a bike should be an enjoyable experience, but for a child with developmental co-ordination disorder (DCD, also known as dyspraxia), these activities can lead to frustration and failure. Can’t Play Won’t Play is full of practical information, tips and hints to enable children with DCD to access and enjoy activities that other children take for granted.
Whatever game you choose to try with your child, this book will offer handy hints for developing the necessary skills to make it a fun and rewarding experience. From football and rugby to swimming, skipping and skating, the advice covers all the regular childhood activities as well as games to improve physical organization and social skills. The authors provide useful equipment lists and safety tips, and include photographs and diagrams to demonstrate the activities. The delightful illustrations add to the book’s appeal, making it a friendly and accessible guide to dip into when you are in need of inspiration.
Can’t Play Won’t Play is an essential resource for parents, teachers and all those working with children with DCD.

Click here to buy on Amazon.

Developmental Coordination Disorder: Hints and Tips for the Activities of Daily Living

Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) is a term used to describe children who have difficulty with movement and specific aspects of learning, and includes dyspraxia, Asperger Syndrome and associated conditions. This easy-to-read booklet answers commonly asked questions about DCD and presents all the necessary information to aid parents, carers and professionals in selecting the best options for their child; sometimes correcting the little things can lead to big results.
In clearly laid out chapters, the author describes the features of Developmental Coordination Disorder and provides practical solutions ranging from maintaining posture and personal care through to the more complex tasks of learning. Practical exercises to help improve the DCD child’s motor and sensory skills are included, plus an extensive list of useful addresses and resources.

Click here to buy on Amazon.

*Please note the list of books and services listed above is not an endorsement or recommendation by the Dyspraxia Foundation and it is your own responsibility for deciding which books and services will be of benefit to you and your situation.