Math Help: What Is Dyscalculia?

A lot of people struggle with numbers, but not everyone struggles for the same reasons. If you typically struggle with math related tasks, your first priority may be getting math help. At the same time, you may be wondering: why is this happening? 

Fear or apprehension about math is surprisingly common. From kids to adults, people of all ages approach numbers with apprehension. But other factors, like ADHD or other learning differences, can play a role, too. 

For some people, the cause may be dyscalculia—a math-related learning disability. This learning disability is often mislabeled as “math dyslexia.” While this description isn’t entirely accurate, it shows how common this disability is. 

In fact, growing research shows that dyscalculia is likely as common as dyslexia! While this can be diagnosed early in life, it can follow learners into their adult years as well. With that in mind, let’s explore what it is, common challenges, and what kind of math help you’ll want to consider.

All About Dyscalculia: Symptoms, Math Help, & More

Common Signs and Symptoms of Dyscalculia 

Like many learning disabilities, dyscalculia presents different symptoms from person to person. These symptoms can also morph as time goes on. For young kids, common symptoms may include:  

• Struggling to recognize numbers 
• Difficulties with counting
• Challenges with simple addition, multiplication, and other math functions 

As kids get older, they often learn to hide their symptoms. They may also develop coping mechanisms, or their symptoms may change. For older children and teenagers, here’s what to look out for: 

• Heightened emotions around math and numbers  
• Avoidance of math assignments or coursework
• Challenges with visual-spatial concepts like graphs and patterns
• Difficulty remembering numbers or making estimates 

For adults with dyscalculia, it may not always be obvious that math help is needed, either. Once again, symptoms can vary for each person, but may include:  

• Increased anxiety around math or numbers 
• Difficulty gauging distances and quantities
• Poor visual or spatial awareness
• Struggles with calculating tips, making change, or other mental math 

When you or your learner needs math help, it’s important to understand whether dyscalculia is a factor. From there, you can take next steps to get the support needed.  

Math Help for Students Who Struggle 

There isn’t a simple, straightforward test for dyscalculia. Instead, you’ll want to talk with doctors, teachers, and any other relevant professionals. This can help you eliminate other learning or processing issues and gain more clarity on the problem. 

From there, you may want to explore a few avenues for support: 

• See what’s available. Speak to your child or teen’s school to see if there are additional resources for math help. If an IEP (Individual Education Plan) isn’t in place, now is the time to ask for it.
• Take your time. Lack of time, anxiety, and panic can make math challenges feel insurmountable. For you or your learner, be sure to allocate extra time for math-related tasks, including homework and bills. 
• Consider your options. Whether you have dyscalculia or you simply struggle with math, brain training can help you approach numbers with new confidence. We offer training for all ages, including kids, teens, and adults.  
• Practice compassion. Dyscalculia isn’t something that just goes away. It’s important to be kind and empathetic when dealing with math difficulties. Over time, you’ll build strategies and supports—but compassion will always be essential for these challenges.

One-on-One Training for Kids, Teens, and Adults 

For students of all ages who need math help, brain training can help build a core foundation of skills. Through one-on-one training, learners can get more comfortable with breaking down math problems, thinking and reading in mathematical terms, and building overall math fluency! 

Our math training programs aren’t tutoring programs. Instead of re-teaching concepts from a classroom, we help students learn a new approach to dealing with math.  

Each learner gets a unique training program designed for them and their needs. Students can improve their math skills, hone their ability to see the world in numerical concepts such as distance or amount, and improve accuracy when problem solving! 

Working with kids, teens, and adults, we know it’s never too early or too late to improve your math abilities!  With brain training, anyone can get the math help they need! To discuss your options, call LearningRx at 866-BRAIN-01 or contact us online.