My son (nearly) recently had IQ tests and came out on the 95th percentile plus for all but the spacial test.
I had eyes checked and they find no problem so I am assuming a cognitive problem.
He is not very sporty and did not crawl as a baby. He has good balance but may have problems with issues regarding crossing the midline of his body.
Does anyone have any suggestions to help him physically develop and improve spacial awareness?
Hi, For my twice exceptional son, he did 6 months occupational therapy for kids. They assessed him and then worked on his weaknesses- he has dysgraphia ( he was on the 6th percentile) and other fine motor skill issues. He improved dramatically and really enjoyed the classes. We are on the northshore in auckland and he saw Lyndsey Mawdsley ( who now works at childsplayot.co.nz) but she was then working at occtherapy4kids.co.nz with Fiona Lilley.He was 8 at the time and it was definiely worth it for us - stretched the budget a bit at the time though at around $50 a session! Hope this info is helpful!
Is there the ability to apply for the child disability allowance through WINZ if the child has a recognised issue and requires intervention, may be an avenue to assist with funding.
My daughter had minor issues with the crossing the midline thing and we were told to look at "symmetrical" activities so cycling but not scootering or skateboarding. Marching apparently - so I guess walking or even hiking would fit the bill.
Hey thanks for that. I really need to find someone to assess him. It is harder as we are in Nelson and there are fewer private clinics etc but we could try Christchurch or maybe even contact the people and organisations you mentioned to see if they know of anyone here who could help.
Thanks again.
Drumming lessons and ballet seem to help. If your child has problems writing check to see if they are writing from the shoulder. Children who write using their shoulder will become very tired in the classroom. If this is the case you need to find a way to strengthen their wrists and forearms.
I have a son with dyspraxia and we also did 6 months of Occupational Therapy, which included special exercises. Swimming also helped, as it strengthened his core muscles and required both sides of the body to work together.
