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March 14, 2026Open Access

Qualitative insights into the experiences of French parents of children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD): Child-related challenges and family implications

LCLéa ChawkiUniversité Paris Cité JLJessica LetotUniversité Paris Cité JDJohanna DespaxUniversité Paris Cité

Key Points

To explore the experiences of French parents raising children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD), focusing on challenges and implications for family well-being.
Conducted 30 semi-structured interviews with French mothers of children with DCD.
Employed thematic content analysis to identify key themes in parental experiences.
Utilized a double coding process for reliability in findings.
Identified significant delays and lack of support in the diagnosis process.
Highlighted the need for multidisciplinary therapeutic approaches amidst access and coordination challenges.
Noted that limited awareness of DCD among educators hinders appropriate educational accommodations.

Abstract

Parents of children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD) are at high risk of having their well-being negatively impacted (e.g., stress, quality of life, anxiety, and depression). However, no study has specifically explored the experience of French parents of children with DCD despite the French government encouraging research on neurodevelopmental disorders to boost screening and offer appropriate care for concerned children and families (Stratégie nationale pour l'autisme au sein des troubles du neuro-développement 2023–2027). Thematic content analysis was conducted involving 30 semi-structured interviews with French mothers of children with DCD. Part of the analysis employed a double coding process to enhance the reliability of the results. Five themes emerged: Diagnosis procedure, Therapeutic care, Schooling, Parental experience, and the Impact of DCD on the child. During the diagnosis process, parents faced significant delays and felt unsupported. Therapeutic care highlighted the need for multidisciplinary approaches, but parents struggled with service access, coordination, and financial barriers. Many parents sought parental guidance and emotional support; however, limited DCD awareness among educators hindered accommodations, impacting family dynamics and extrafamilial life. This study highlights the daily challenges faced by parents and families of children with DCD. It emphasizes the need for better support systems during diagnosis and care, as well as increased awareness of DCD among professionals to ensure proper educational accommodations. Future research should focus on targeted interventions to assist parents and support their well-being. Limitations and suggestions for future research are discussed. • Semi-structured research interviews with parents of a child with DCD in France • Parents report significant challenges in accessing and coordinating therapeutic care. • Therapeutic and educational professionals' lack of awareness of DCD limits support. • Positive parent–professional relationships provide emotional support and guidance. • Better support structures and targeted interventions are needed.

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