This book attempts to explain dyspraxia, a coordination disorder, and how the condition affects children of primary school age. The first chapter defines dyspraxia and answers common questions concerning what the condition is, difficulties these children experience, reasons for these difficulties, the prevalence of dyspraxia, and ways to help. Chapter 2 considers the study of dyspraxia within a developmental framework, specifically, the interaction of social, perceptual-motor, intellectual, and emotional development. It also considers the role of heredity and environment, personality and temperament, growth and maturation, causes, and labeling. The next four chapters each address one of the four areas of development: (1) perceptual-motor development; (2) intellectual development; (3) social development and making friends; and (4) emotional development. Chapter 7 offers practical considerations for parents and teachers organized into those that help at school, getting ready for school, and at home. The final chapter looks at various activity programs including touching and support, perceptual-motor programs, expressive movement activities, activities for kinesthetic/body awareness, and activities to help planning and problem solving. Five appendices provide a sample observation record, activities to build specific skills, and useful addresses. (Contains 58 references.) (DB)