Dyscalculia: How can I help my child cope with maths
Does your child struggle with maths, have difficulties with basic mathematical concepts and gets confused with sequencing and mental calculations? If so, then they could have Dyscalculia. Here's how to help them cope with maths.
National Numeracy and the British Dyslexia Association say an estimated 25% of people have maths learning difficulties, which can either be caused by conditions like Dyscalculia or a traumatic learning experience. What's more, 60% of those with dyslexia will have problems with maths.
What is Dyscalculia?
Dyscalculia is a learning disorder that affects a person's ability to understand and work with numbers. Children with Dyscalculia often struggle with basic mathematical concepts and may display frustration and a negative attitude towards maths. However, Dyscalculia is not simply a lack of math interest or effort. Children tend to struggle despite their best efforts.
Here are eight signs that may indicate a child has Dyscalculia:
1. Difficulty counting, recognising numbers, and understanding numerical concepts.
2. Difficulty memorising and recalling basic math facts such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
3. Difficulty with sequencing, patterns, and organising information.
4. Difficulty with telling time and understanding the concept of time.
5. Difficulty with mental calculations and estimating quantities.
6. Difficulty with problem-solving and understanding mathematical symbols and language.
7. Difficulty with spatial reasoning and geometry.
8. Anxiety and frustration when faced with maths lessons and tests, alongside maths avoidance.
What can you do if you suspect your child has Dyscalculia?
One of the most important things you can do is to recognise the signs of Dyscalculia early on. Once Dyscalculia is identified, there are ways to work with a child to develop strategies and techniques that will help them learn.
One effective strategy is to use visual aids to help children with Dyscalculia understand math concepts. For example, using blocks or beads can help younger children see and touch the numbers they are working with. This can make it easier for them to understand and remember mathematical concepts.
Another helpful technique is to use games and activities to make maths more engaging and fun. Board games https://www.orchardtoys.com/blog/which-orchard-toys-games-are-useful-for-dyscalculia_122716160.htm that involve counting and addition can help children develop their math skills in a fun and relaxed way.
It's also essential to provide children with Dyscalculia with plenty of positive reinforcement and support. Children with Dyscalculia may feel frustrated or discouraged by their difficulties with math, so it's important to encourage and support them as they work to develop their skills.
Who else can help my child?
If you suspect your child may have Dyscalculia, it's important to speak with their teacher or a qualified professional such as a psychologist, educational specialist, tutor or dyscalculia specialist. They can perform assessments and evaluations to determine your child has Dyscalculia and provide recommendations for appropriate interventions and support. Early identification and intervention can significantly affect a child's ability to overcome Dyscalculia and succeed in maths.
A tutor can also be a valuable resource for a child with Dyscalculia. Here are some ways that a specialised tutor can help:
Individualised instruction: A tutor can provide one-on-one instruction tailored to your child's specific needs. They can identify areas of difficulty and develop strategies to help the child overcome their challenges.
Multi-sensory teaching: A tutor can use various teaching methods to help the child with Dyscalculia learn, including visual, auditory, and kinesthetic techniques.
Repetition and practice: Children with Dyscalculia may need more repetition and practice than other children to master mathematical concepts. A tutor can provide additional practice opportunities and help the child build their math skills through repetition.
Positive reinforcement: A tutor can provide positive feedback and encouragement to the child, which can help build their confidence and motivation. This can be especially important for children with Dyscalculia, who may feel frustrated or discouraged by their difficulties with math.
It's important to note that not all tutors are trained to work with children with Dyscalculia. Parents should look for a tutor who has experience working with children with learning disabilities and who uses evidence-based methods for teaching math. A qualified tutor can help a child with Dyscalculia develop their math skills, build their confidence, and succeed in school and life.