Rhythmic Handwriting Deficits and General Rhythmic Abilities in Children

Launched by UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL, MONTPELLIER · Aug 17, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at how children with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) experience difficulties with rhythm, particularly in tasks like handwriting and music. DCD is a condition that affects motor skills, making it hard for some kids to coordinate their movements. Researchers want to understand if these rhythm challenges in handwriting and other activities are linked and if they come from the same underlying issue in the brain. If they find a connection, it could lead to new therapies that help improve these skills through fun activities, like games.

To participate in this study, children must be between the ages of 7 and 10, be able to read and write, and have a diagnosis of DCD. They should be native French speakers and live with at least one parent. During the trial, children will take part in activities that help researchers learn more about their rhythmic abilities. It's important to mention that children with certain other conditions, like serious visual impairments or neurological disorders, won't be eligible to participate.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Children aged 7 to 10 inclusive
• • Children who can read and write
• • Diagnosis of DCD according to DSM-5 criteria (APA, 2015)
• • Native French speaker
• • Living with at least one parent
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Intellectual development disorder confirmed or suspected during the initial evaluation phase in the MPEA department.
• • Presence or suspected presence of a visual impairment at the root of the motor skills deficit.
• • Presence or suspected presence of a neurological motor disorder (e.g. sensory impairment, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, degenerative disease).
• • Not affiliated to a social security scheme or not benefiting from such a scheme.
• • Absence of written, informed consent from parents.