Do little math word problems become a BIG problem?
Is keeping numbers in columns for addition or subtraction difficult?
Does he/she switch to addition while doing subtraction or vice versa?
Do they struggle to remember the order of steps in math exercises?
These are some of the symptoms of dyscalculia, a math learning disorder. If you think your child may have dyscalculia, they are not alone. It affects thousands of children, teens and adults, but it does not reflect their intelligence. In fact, great minds like Benjamin Franklin, Albert Einstein and Bill Gates all had dyscaclulia!
Researchers believe that dyscalculia involves weaknesses in the visual and processing portions of the brain.
Dyscalculia is similar to the dylexia that we are all familiar with except it is with numbers.
Discalculia can often be determined when there is a big difference between scores on math tests and the student’s abilities. Although dyscalculia is a math learning impediment, there are strategies listed below that can be used to help.
Keep numbers in columns by turning lined paper sideways so lines become vertical guides.
Circle mathematical signs such as + and - before doing computation.
Draw visual aides to solve word problems.
Talk out loud (sub-vocalize) while doing math.
Create stories to create “memory hooks.”
There is now storybook curriculum that can teach children with this condition their multiplication facts in a few weeks.