Caged In Chaos: A Dyspraxic Guide To Breaking Free

Description

Written by a teenage dyspraxic, this inspiring book is a unique practical guide for dyspraxics and those around them struggling and determined to get to grips with the social, physical and psychological chaos caused by developmental co-ordination disorders (DCDs). In her own conversational style, Victoria Biggs discusses both the primary effects of her 'learning difference' - disorganization, clumsiness and poor short-term memory - and the secondary difficulties she and other dyspraxics encounter, including bullying, low self-esteem and loneliness. She offers down-to-earth advice on a wide range of issues, from body language, puberty, health and hygiene to family life and social skills. Personal stories and 'this-is-what-it's-like-for-me' accounts from other dyspraxic adolescents are also included. Her positive and practical approach and profound empathy with others in her situation make this book a must-read for dyspraxics, their parents and other family members, and for professionals working with them.

Reviews

"I describe life with my hidden handicap as lying diagonally in a parallel universe - I'm always slightly out of step with everyone else...always with a skewed view of things. Luckily I now really enjoy life on a tilt." - Victoria Biggs

Author description

Victoria Biggs is sixteen years old and has just passed her AS levels. Her writing skills have earned her a place in the National Academy for Gifted and Talented Youth.

Table of contents

1. A Recipe for Chaos; 2. The Hidden People at Home; 3. A Survival Guide to School; 4. Making the Grade; 5. Crossing the Chasm; 6. The Case of the Cooked Tomato; 7. Bullying; 8. Coping with Growing Up; 9. Diagnosis - A Pipe Dream? 10. Dealing with Dyspraxia: What Can I Do Now? 11. Lying Diagonally in a Parallel Universe; Appendices.