Parent-Reported Trajectory of Gross Motor Developmental Milestones in Children With Developmental Coordination Disorder: A Latent Growth Curve Analysis

Developmental coordination disorder (DCD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by impaired motor coordination, significantly affecting daily activities. This study aimed to analyze gross motor milestone trajectories in children with DCD, while controlling for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and autism symptomology, compared with typically developing children. Data from the Coordination and Activity Tracking in CHildren (CATCH) study were analyzed ( n = 505 children, baseline age 4–5 years) from Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Children were categorized by motor proficiency level (Movement Assessment Battery for Children-2; MABC) as having probable DCD (<6th MABC percentile); being at risk for DCD (sixth to 16th MABC percentile); or motorically typically developing (>16th a MABC percentile). Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder symptomology, autism symptomology, and motor milestone age when achieved were assessed using parent-report scales. A latent growth curve analysis was conducted to examine patterns of motor milestone achievement. Controlling for attention deficit hyperactivity and autism symptoms, probable DCD was associated with standing assisted 0.6 months later than typically developing children, and a delayed trajectory of milestone progression. Children at risk of DCD did not demonstrate delayed achievement of motor milestones. Delayed achievement of motor milestones—though small—may be associated with probable DCD.