Sometimes referred to as “maths dyslexia” it impacts how children process numerical information, leading to challenges in everyday numeracy tasks such as counting, telling time, or solving arithmetic problems. It is not linked with intelligence, and some very bright children can struggle with this specific difficulty with numbers.
Signs of Dyscalculia
Children with dyscalculia may:
– Struggle with basic maths concepts, like understanding quantities, number sequences, or place value.
– Have difficulty memorising numerical facts (e.g., multiplication tables).
– Confuse maths symbols (+, -, ×, ÷) or struggle with maths-related vocabulary.
– Have trouble estimating or comparing quantities (e.g., which number is bigger).
– Avoid games or activities that involve numbers.
– Become less confident in their learning in general, or show signs of low self esteem.
These signs can be noticeable early in primary school but may also be masked by the use of counting on fingers or memorising steps without truly understanding the math concepts.
How Can I Help My Child?
Just like dyslexia, early identification and support are key. If your child is struggling with maths or numeracy, it’s important to reach out to their teachers to have a conversation about what you have noticed. You could arrange a meeting with the school SENCO (special educational needs co-ordinator) to find out whether specialist interventions may be helpful. This might involve visual aids, step-by-step teaching, and hands-on learning to help children with dyscalculia make sense of numbers.
What can we do to support our child at home?
– Break math tasks into smaller, manageable steps.
– Use everyday activities, like cooking or shopping, to practice numbers in a low-pressure environment.
– Celebrate your child’s strengths in other areas, reminding them that everyone learns differently.
Children with dyscalculia can feel frustrated and discouraged by their difficulties with numbers. It’s so important to provide emotional support and emphasise effort over results. With the right teaching methods and patience, many children with dyscalculia can improve their math skills and gain confidence in their abilities.
Next Steps
If you suspect your child may have dyscalculia, seeking an assessment from a psychologist can help provide clarity, exploring not only their cognitive areas of difficulty, but also finding out their personal strengths and discovering their learning profile. Early intervention and tailored support can help your child develop effective strategies to manage their difficulties and succeed academically.
