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Developmental Co-ordination Disorder In Adults - Sharon Drew
Reviewed by
Nicola Werenowska
At last! A book on Developmental Co-ordination Disorder written from a professional perspective which focuses on adults. What appealed to me immediately about this study is its accessibility – the fact that it reaches out to adult dyspraxics such as myself as well as to professionals working in the field.
On one level it presents a well-documented and researched academic piece which both raises complex issues surrounding adult dyspraxia such as assessment and intervention, and provides practical support and guidance for those working with adults with dyspraxia. However, the book is equally rewarding, and indeed I would say an essential read, for the adult with dyspraxia. I found it informative, thought-provoking and helpful.
The appeal for the adult dyspraxic is not simply due to the book’s content but is accentuated by its style: the clarity of expression, absence of self-referential academic jargon and attractive layout with its use of visual stimuli make it user-friendly for neuro-diverse readers. I emerged with a much clearer understanding of the condition of DCD, current models of assessment, and began to engage with issues such as the classification of DCD as a medical condition or a learning/living disability.
I also benefited from this book on a more practical level. In the second half of the book, Drew makes helpful suggestions to improve the daily lives of adult dyspraxics, focusing on the adult learner, the adult at play, at home and in the workplace. I found the tips on driving particularly useful and feel inspired to reconsider attempting this activity.
Perhaps the reason for the book’s success is Drew’s vast experience as an OT working alongside adult dyspraxics. This is someone who knows how we feel. This is a book to make you think and to make you act. My only criticism is a selfish observation that I wish this work had been around five years ago when I was first diagnosed. But then some things are definitely worth waiting for. A perfect Xmas present for that dyspraxic stocking, a way of inspiring us to move forwards in 2006.
Nicola Werenowska
At last! A book on Developmental Co-ordination Disorder written from a professional perspective which focuses on adults. What appealed to me immediately about this study is its accessibility – the fact that it reaches out to adult dyspraxics such as myself as well as to professionals working in the field.
On one level it presents a well-documented and researched academic piece which both raises complex issues surrounding adult dyspraxia such as assessment and intervention, and provides practical support and guidance for those working with adults with dyspraxia. However, the book is equally rewarding, and indeed I would say an essential read, for the adult with dyspraxia. I found it informative, thought-provoking and helpful.
The appeal for the adult dyspraxic is not simply due to the book’s content but is accentuated by its style: the clarity of expression, absence of self-referential academic jargon and attractive layout with its use of visual stimuli make it user-friendly for neuro-diverse readers. I emerged with a much clearer understanding of the condition of DCD, current models of assessment, and began to engage with issues such as the classification of DCD as a medical condition or a learning/living disability.
I also benefited from this book on a more practical level. In the second half of the book, Drew makes helpful suggestions to improve the daily lives of adult dyspraxics, focusing on the adult learner, the adult at play, at home and in the workplace. I found the tips on driving particularly useful and feel inspired to reconsider attempting this activity.
Perhaps the reason for the book’s success is Drew’s vast experience as an OT working alongside adult dyspraxics. This is someone who knows how we feel. This is a book to make you think and to make you act. My only criticism is a selfish observation that I wish this work had been around five years ago when I was first diagnosed. But then some things are definitely worth waiting for. A perfect Xmas present for that dyspraxic stocking, a way of inspiring us to move forwards in 2006.
