Math can be a frustration for many children. This includes remembering number facts, times tables and maths concepts. Such children could have learning disabilities. Math learning disabilities are called dyscalculia.
Researchers believe that dyscalculia is a product of processing errors in the language and vision areas of the brain. It is not known how dyscalculia comes to be, but evidence suggests genetic and environmental causes.
It is reassuring to know that often, the weaknesses can be compensated for so that the students can function at the same or higher level compared to their peers.
The symptoms of Dyscalculia are many:-
Avoidance of math work. Inability to keep numbers in columns. Confusion with math concepts. Difficulty with word problems. Crying while doing math homework. Switching to addition while doing a subtraction problem or the reverse. Forgetting addition facts and the multiplication tables. Difficulty remembering math steps. Changing the sequence of numerals when copying them.
Here’s how to Help With Dyscalculia: Seven Tips:-
Use Lined paper. If your child has trouble keeping numbers in columns, show her how to turn lined paper sideways so the lines become vertical guides. Or, encourage her to use graph paper to keep columns of numbers lined up. Cover up columns. Have your child cover up all columns except those he is working on. Use a calculator when appropriate. If a child is being tested for concepts and understanding and has difficulty with computation, have him use a calculator for those tests or assignments. Circle signs. Suggest that your child circle the + , -, or other arithmetic signs before doing the computation. Color-code. Color-code fact families and multiplication facts for your young child. For example you could write or color 2+3=5, 3+2=5, 5-2=3, 5-3=2 in green, and 3+4=7, 4+3=7, 7-3=4, 7-4=3 in blue. Write what you want. When your child is working on a word problem, tell her to write down the information and what she’s trying to solve for. Encourage her to use whatever method works best for that task such as making a list, drawing, or underlining. Sub-vocalize. Suggest to your child that she talk to herself out loud or sub-vocalize.
Talk to your child’s teacher. Kids with learning disabilities in math can still master it, but they need help. Find out what resources are available at her school. Your child can enjoy success at school, even in math.
Want to find out more about dyscalculia, then visit Linda Silbert’s site on how to choose the best dyscalculia test online for your needs.