At TinyEYE, we are committed to improving the lives of children through data-driven, evidence-based interventions. One of the most pressing issues we face is how to effectively support children with dual diagnoses of Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD) and Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). A recent pilot study titled "Efficacy of a Task-Oriented Intervention for Children with a Dual Diagnosis of Specific Learning Disabilities and Developmental Coordination Disorder" offers promising insights.
Understanding the Study
The study explored the impact of a Neuromotor Task Training (NTT) program on children aged 6-10 with both SLD and DCD. The children participated in two 45-60 minute training sessions per week for nine weeks. Their motor performance was assessed using the Motor Assessment Battery for Children 2nd Edition (MABC-2).
Key Findings
The results were encouraging:
- Children in the NTT group showed significant improvement in motor performance compared to those receiving usual care.
- The intervention was particularly effective in improving balance scores.
- 50% of children in the NTT group showed improvements beyond the Standard Error of Measurement (SEM).
Implications for Practitioners
For practitioners, these findings underscore the importance of incorporating task-oriented interventions like NTT into therapy programs for children with SLD and DCD. Here are some actionable steps:
- Adopt NTT Principles: Break down tasks into manageable components and provide clear instructions and feedback.
- Small Group Sessions: Conduct interventions in small groups to foster social interaction and motivation.
- Consistency: Implement regular sessions to ensure sustained improvement.
Encouraging Further Research
While this study provides valuable insights, further research is needed to explore the long-term effects of NTT and its applicability in diverse educational settings. Practitioners are encouraged to contribute to this growing body of research by documenting and sharing their findings.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Efficacy of a Task-Oriented Intervention for Children with a Dual Diagnosis of Specific Learning Disabilities and Developmental Coordination Disorder: A Pilot Study.
