Stumbling Through Space and Time: Living Life With Dyspraxia

by Rosemary Richings

"In 1994, I was diagnosed with dyspraxia, and I was unable to do everything that children are expected to do by the time they're in school. For me, this included everything from riding a bike and catching a ball, to reading, writing, and basic math."

When talking about her dyspraxia, Rosemary Richings is often met with confusion. Why do so few people understand dyspraxia, or even know what it is?

Rosemary shares her experience of growing up dyspraxic, and how it impacts her sense of space, time and co-ordination. Diagnosed with DCD at the age of four, Rosemary shares her insights and experience dealing with challenges, from coping with bullies in school to choosing a dyspraxia-friendly university, pursuing self-employment and travelling abroad.

Rosemary shares guidance for others about what helped her develop her skills, including ballet and gymnastics, the Wilbarger Protocol (brushing therapy) and equestrian therapy. Full of practical tips and insights into the strategies that gave Rosemary the confidence to succeed, this is an essential guide for other dyspraxics and those supporting them, which shows you how you too can thrive as a dyspraxic person.

Genres: Disability, Nonfiction

160 pages, Paperback

Published September 21, 2022

About the author

Rosemary Richings is a writer, editor, and speaker specialising in neurodiversity & chronic illness accessibility, as well as awareness. Rosemary's work has been featured in numerous digital and print publications, including The Toronto Star, Reader's Digest, Not for Profit Quarterly, Shape, and Travel & Leisure. Previously, Rosemary has worked with clients such as Yellowpages, eBay, Saatva Mattress Company, Uptimize, and Lexxic. Rosemary's debut novel, "Stumbling Through Space and Time: Living Life With Dyspraxia", was released through Jessica Kingsley Publishers in 2022. Her second book, "Studying With Dyspraxia", is scheduled for release in July 2026. Currently, Rosemary is on the board of trustees of Dyspraxic Me, a London-based charity providing peer support to dyspraxic young adults. Much of Rosemary's work comes from a place of lived experience, as someone who is neurodivergent herself and lives without a thyroid.

Reviews

[Lizzie Milton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Every teacher and medical professional should read this book to understand what living with dyspraxia is actually like and the obstacles we face. Insightful, honest and easy to read.

[Jess Corcoran · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this book with a highlighter ready. Although this book is a personal experience, I felt parts were very relatable and validating.

[Katie Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A nice book about living with dyspraxia.

[Olya · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting... And a bit unusual. Not what I expected. Not something I'd wildly recommend, but there is something there in all that.

[Johanna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Quite dry - more of a practical guide which is perfect if that’s what you’re looking for!

[Melanie Rippon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great blend of personal memoir and practical guide, should be required reading for medical and educational professionals alike. Not to mention family, friends & employers of dyspraxic people. I am dyspraxic myself so have read a few other books on the topic, this is the first to REALLY capture what it feels like. Or so I felt. Borrowed from my local library but will be getting my own copy, definitely worth a re-read - with highlighter at the ready!

[Roisin Perry · Rating 5 out of 5]

An honest account of living with dyspraxia which would help other people to understand what it means to be dyspraxic.

[Caroline · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some good insights and ideas to look into. Mostly just speaking about her lived experience