Working With Children With Dyspraxia (DCD)
Learn about the physical, emotional, social and educational impact of Dyspraxia or DCD on the whole child
Although Dyspraxia - also known as Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) - is extremely common in school-aged children (5-15%), research has shown that the majority of professionals working with children have little to no knowledge about this condition. Because identifying this condition early on is essential in order to avail of timely supports, it is essential that every professional working with children has a full understanding of how Dyspraxia presents. One of the reasons Dyspraxia is often not on the radar of professionals is because it is highly co-morbid with other conditions. In other words, children with Dyspraxia very often have other sensory, emotional and social issues. Those who complete this course will have a comprehensive knowledge of Dyspraxia, understand the serious impact this disorder has on the whole child and their lived experience in the world in terms of their psychological, emotional, physical and social wellness, and will be well-equipped with effective strategies to support these children's needs.
Your Instructor
Dr Lorraine Lynch is the Clinical Director of the Child Psychology Institute (CPI). She holds a Professional Doctorate in Health Psychology from London Metropolitan University (LMU) and is accredited by the HCPC and BPS. Her research thesis was based on the lived experience of children with Dyspraxia/Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) from the perspective of their parents. During her doctorate training, she completed placements in the private sector working on breastfeeding advocacy and support, and also within the NHS (Kidderminster Hospital, Birmingham) working on the promotion of digital health solutions. Dr Lorraine has won numerous awards within the social innovation and enterprise space, receiving a Social Entrepreneurs Ireland award in 2014, Enterprise Ireland's New Frontiers Award in 2021 and Network Ireland 'Power Within Champion' Award in 2022. Dr Lorraine is also the author of two books designed to promote children’s wellness - #100happydays4kids and Closing Saor’s Day.
Her most important role is a mother to three smallies, who serve as a constant reminder of how much potential exists within each child.
“Even the tallest trees always begin as a seed.” A. J. Darkholme