Evaluating the Factor Structure and Criterion Validity of the Canadian Little DCDQ: Associations Between Motor Competence,Executive Functions,Early Numeracy Skills,and ADHD in Early Childhood

Abstract

The Canadian Little Developmental Coordination Disorder Questionnaire (Little DCDQ-CA) is a parent-report screening instrument that identifies 3- to 4-year-old children who may be at risk for Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). We tested the factor structure and criterion validity of the Little DCDQ-CA in a sample of preschool-aged children in the United States (N = 233). Factor analysis indicated that the DCDQ-CA was best represented by one factor. Using cutoff scores that were proposed by the developer, 45% of the sample was identified as at-risk for DCD. Although a much larger percentage of children was identified as at-risk than would be expected based on the prevalence of formal DCD diagnoses in the population, the Little DCDQ-CA demonstrated good criterion validity. Specifically, compared with their peers, children who exceeded the at-risk criterion demonstrated worse motor competence, executive functioning skills, and early numeracy skills and were rated as having greater ADHD behaviors by their teachers, all consistent with expectations for children who are at risk for DCD. Results are discussed as they relate to future use of the Little DCDQ-CA.