So What is Dyspraxia? 
Between the ages of 3 and 5, children with dyspraxia may demonstrate the following types of behaviour.
- Very high levels of motor activity, including feet swinging and tapping when seated, hand clapping or twisting and an inability to stay in one place for more than 5 minutes.
- High levels of excitability, with a loud/shrill voice. Children may be easily distressed and prone to temper tantrums.
- Awkward movement. Children may constantly bump into objects and fall over. Associated mirror movements, hands flap when running.
- Difficulty pedalling a tricycle or a similar toy.
- Poor figure and ground awareness. Children may lack any sense of danger, illustrated, for example, by jumping from an inappropriate height.
- Continued messy eating. Children may spill liquid from drinking cups and prefer to eat with their fingers.
- Avoidance of constructional toys, such as jigsaw or building blocks.
- Poor fine motor skills, demonstrated by difficulty in holding a pencil or using scissors. Drawings may appear immature.
- Lack of imaginative play. Children may show little interest in ëdressing upí or playing appropriately in a home corner or wendy house.
- Limited creative play.
- Isolation within the peer group. Rejected by peers, children may prefer adult company.
- Laterality still not established. Problems crossing the midline.
- Persistent language difficulties. Children are often referred to a speech therapist.
- Sensitivity to sensory stimulation, including high levels of noise, being touched or wearing new clothes.
- Limited response to verbal instruction. Children may exhibit a slower response time and problems with comprehension.
- Limited concentration. Tasks are often left unfinished.
If the condition is not identified, problems
can persist throughout school life causing
increasing frustration and a lowering self
esteem.
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