How do young children with DCD participate and enjoy daily activities?

Developmental problems may decrease participation of children. The objective of this study was to evaluate multidimensional aspects of participation amongst preschool children with and without DCD. Participants included 63 children with mean age of 4.96 years (SD = 0.62; range = 4.02–6.35 years). Twenty one children were diagnosed with DCD, 21 children without DCD who were referred to OT due to mild developmental problems, and 21 children from mainstream public kindergartens whom did not require any developmental intervention. All three groups were matched for age, gender, and socioeconomic status. Children were administered the M-ABC2 and their parents completed the PSQ questionnaire. Results indicate significant differences in level of independence and subjective measures of participation (enjoyment and parents’ satisfaction) between the DCD group and the two other groups. The results indicate that from a young age, and in comparison to their peers, the participation of children with DCD is compromised. The integration of the DSM diagnostic criteria and the ICF perception of health enables us to capture the full scope of DCD and its complexity.

► Parent satisfaction and children's enjoyment is decreased in children with DCD.
► Cognitive (process) skills are also decreased in children with DCD.
► Children with DCD experience also poor achievements in leisure, play, and social participation.
► Even at a young age DCD influences participation.
► Decreased parent satisfaction may be a predictor for DCD among preschool aged children.