Dyscalculia is a learning disorder that makes it challenging to process math-related concepts.
In most cases, symptoms appear when school-aged children between the ages of 6 and 9 learn how to do basic math. However, it can progress into adulthood without detection.
In today’s blog post, we look beyond the numbers to unravel the complex world of dyscalculia.
Dyscalculia Explained
Dyscalculia is a math learning disability caused by neurodiversity that makes people see numbers in unique ways. With dyscalculia, solving what seems like a simple math problem is a challenge because the brain doesn’t follow expected patterns that manage:
- Visual processing
- Short-term memory
- Language
- Long-term memory
- Understanding of quantities and amounts
- Calculation
These processes don’t work in the same way as they do for people who are not neurotypical, which means certain parts of these functions might not take place or will take place in a less logical order. This does not mean people with dyscalculia are less intelligent, but simply that their brains work differently.
What are the Symptoms of Dyscalculia?
Symptoms of dyscalculia vary but usually include trouble with the following:
- Counting upward
- Connecting a number to like objects
- Recognizing numbers
- Recognizing math symbols
- Organizing numbers from first to last, smallest to largest, etc.
- Recognizing and using number lines
- Understanding money
In younger children, symptoms include difficulty with the following:
- Counting on their fingers
- Identifying small quantities
- Doing simple calculations
- Memorizing multiplication tables
- Not realizing 1+7=8 is the same as 8=7+1 for example
- Not understanding symbols such as lesser than or greater than
- Not understanding math word problems
- Difficulty counting on scales such as 10, 20, 30
- Difficulty understanding decimals
Dyscalculia also causes emotional symptoms, including:
- Anxiety
- Agitation, anger, or aggression
- Fear of going to school
- Physical symptoms of anxiety, such as sweating and stomach issues
What Causes Dyscalculia?
There is no known cause for dyscalculia, although it does seem to run in families. It can also be related to other conditions, such as:
- Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Dyslexia
- Dysgraphia
- Non-verbal learning disorders
- Sensory processing disorders
- Autism spectrum disorder
Although people with dyscalculia have a higher risk of mental health disorders, this could be related to the stress and anxiety it causes.
How is Dyscalculia Diagnosed?
Teachers and parents are usually the first to notice the symptoms of possible issues with cognitive development. In a school setting, educational strategies can be provided. Parents often seek assistance from a pediatrician who can refer their children for diagnosis and treatment based on the DSM-5 lists for math-related symptoms. Children must have at least one of these two criteria to be diagnosed:
- Difficulties mastering number sense, number facts, or calculation
- Difficulties with mathematical reasoning
How is Dyscalculia Treated?
Dyscalculia is treatable by teaching children math skills using one-on-one learning programs. The sooner treatment begins, the better chance children can overcome their disability. It is possible to learn methods that help children handle math effectively. Your doctor might also recommend treatment such as:
- Small group therapy
- Tutoring
- Educational therapy
- Executive functioning training through a learning specialist
- Neurofeedback therapy
With early detection, understanding, and the application of tailored educational strategies, individuals with dyscalculia can acquire effective methods to manage their condition and thrive in their learning environments.
The Chicago Mind Solutions Difference
Chicago Mind Solutions works with individuals, offering neuropsychological testing and non-invasive treatment for many mental health conditions. For more information about our treatments and teletherapy options, please contact us at (224) 723-5050 or email info@chicagomindsolutions.com.
