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

BACKGROUND: Developmental coordination disorder (DCD) affects 5% of school-age children and is characterized by impaired motor coordination and planning, not better explained by other conditions. Motor difficulties negatively impact school performance, activities of daily living, and participation with family and peers and may persist into adulthood. The 2020 DCD Clinical Practice Guideline (2020 DCD CPG) set standards for the physical therapy management of children with DCD. PURPOSE: This 2026 DCD CPG provides an updated reference for physical therapists, families, healthcare professionals, educators, and researchers to improve clinical outcomes and inform future research. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: The 2026 DCD CPG addresses: physical therapy contributions to the diagnostic process, examination/evaluation including recommended outcome measures; collaborative plans of care including referral to other providers and dosage considerations; shared decision-making to establish meaningful goals and home programs; evidence-based interventions including task-oriented approaches and community physical activities; progress monitoring; implementation and compliance recommendations; and research recommendations.