Dyscalculia is as prevalent as Dyslexia

Note: Since this article was first written, I have successfully pre-diagnosed three people, with confirmed diagnosis by a psychiatrist, with dyscalculia. Working one-on-one with these students every day for a minimum of an hour is a must. My recommendation is that the dyscalculic student not take any other strenuous courses during the same semester that they take their math class. As a tutor, you have to have the patience of a saint for students that are diagnosed with dyscalculia because you will not understand why they don’t “get it.”

  New research is showing that dyscalculia may be as prevalent among children at the same rate as dyslexia. Do you remember the kid in grade school who could not understand that 2+2 = 4? At some point we all struggle with Math, but when does it become a disability? Unfortunately, dyscalculia can be inherited and is noticeable as early as primary education. Many of the signs arise during counting exercises, organizing number patterns, and estimation problems.

  Once the problem is diagnosed many teachers and parents do not have enough resources to deal with dyscalculia. Luckily, foraging around the web for activities and help is readily available. Most of the activities involve manipulatives and games. As the school aids the students with Individual Educational Plans, parents will have to work with their child to help them catch up. You will want to hire a tutor as a guide and cheerleader for your student. Positive and consistent reinforcement will go a long way in helping your child cope with dyscalculia!

Here is a list of websites and resources with activities and strategies for parents, teachers, and students.

§  Activities for Students with Dyscalculia at eHow: Family

§  To Learn about the Types of Dyscalculia

§  Teaching Strategies

§  Dyscalculia.org

  I am really in love with the last link since it does talk about Math Anxiety as well. There is a lot more resources and help available since dyscalculia became a formal learning disability. Let’s turn this disability into an ability!

Sometimes Math can look like this jumbled mess to a dyscalculic!