Exploring Assessment Tools and the Target of Intervention for Children with Developmental Coordination Disorder

Purpose: We reviewed current practice for children with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) using research evidence and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF). Characteristics of children with DCD can be described at the levels of body function (impairments), whole body movements (ac- tivities) and involvement in life situations (participation). Summary of Key Points: Descriptive instruments measuring the extent of motor im- pairments or activity limitations can be used to: (1) identify children who might benefit from intervention; and (2) determine the optimal type of intervention and model of service delivery. Evaluative tools that mea- Cheryl Missiuna, PhD, OT Reg(Ont), is Assistant Professor in the School of Reha- bilitation Science and an Investigator with CanChild, Centre for Childhood Disability Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario. Lisa Rivard, BSc(PT), is a gradu- ate student at McMaster University and a pediatric physiotherapy consultant. Doreen Bartlett, PhD, PT, is an Assistant Professor in the School of Physical Therapy, Univer- sity of Western Ontario, and an Associate Member of CanChild. Address correspondence to: Cheryl Missiuna, PhD, OT Reg (Ont), McMaster Uni- versity, School of Rehabilitation Science, 1400 Main St. West, IAHS 414, Hamilton