4 Ways to Help Kids with Dyscalculia

Many children struggle with learning disabilities that can hinder their ability to process and understand information. Dyscalculia is a developmental disorder that involves difficulty conceptualizing and performing mathematics. Kids with dyscalculia need extra support to help them stay on track in math class, handle homework, and deal with tests. Here are several practical ways that parents can help a child who struggles with dyscalculia.

1. Use manipulatives. Seeing and handling a tangible object will help a child better understand the abstract principles of mathematics. Legos and simple blocks can be used to teach addition and subtraction. Some also suggest using a counter when working with children. Actually covering a certain number of counters with your hands will enable your child to more easily visualize different groups of numbers.

2. Learn the language of math. Parents should encourage their child to talk out loud as they work through a problem or new math concept. Children who struggle with math may have good language skills that could help make the mathematical process easier. It’s a good idea for children to learn several synonyms for a variety of math terms. For example, when discussing addition problems they could use terms such as “plus,” “increase” and “more than.” Explain basic terms to your child and allow them to talk about each definition, describing what it means in their own words.

3. Support self-esteem. Don’t keep them in the dark. Talk to them about the difficulties dyscalculia can cause and be specific: “You know how you have a hard time remembering your times tables, or knowing how much change to give the lunch lady? That’s dyscalculia.” Acknowledge their struggles and praise hard work — even if the results aren’t perfect: “I understand how hard that math assignment was. I was so proud of how hard you worked on it.” Help them identify their specific strengths, and offer positive reinforcement: “Your essay about Dad was so well written and moving. You’re a great writer.”

4. Use accommodations. Accommodations can include everything from circling keywords in math sentences to giving your child extra paper to work out math problems. You should also discuss with your child’s teacher accommodations that can be implemented at school. A few include extra time given for tests and access to a math resource room if one is available. The school may also allow a child with dyscalculia to use a calculator when working on daily math problems as well as tests.

It’s also a great idea to take advantage of online resources, like these from Touchmath.

Allison Green
Boston Tutoring Services