The latest issue of Pediatric Physical Therapy features the 2026 DCD clinical practice guideline.
DCD stands for Developmental Coordination Disorder.
Clinically, some children may appear to struggle during running, jumping, ball games, going up and down stairs, or daily activities such as dressing, packing their school bags, and eating.
This guideline summarizes the directions for pediatric physical therapy regarding DCD-related assessment, goal setting, task-oriented intervention, home activities, community activities, and follow-up.
Some challenges are not only observed in the therapy center. Some progress also gradually emerges through daily participation.
This article serves as an introduction. Later, I will gradually organize the content into a few more practical, lifestyle-oriented articles, written for parents and organized for myself as well.
➜ Have questions about DCD or your child's motor development? Feel free to consult with us via LINE
References
- Sargent, B., Mueller, M., Iverson, E., Frazier, M., & Kaplan, S. L. (2026). Physical therapy management of children with developmental coordination disorder: A 2026 evidence-based clinical practice guideline from the American Physical Therapy Association Academy of Pediatric Physical Therapy. Pediatric Physical Therapy, 38, 297–333.