Does Your Child Struggle With Math? Dyscalculia Could Be the Reason. [downloadable]

Dyscalculia (dis-kal-KYOO-lee-uh) is not as well known as dyslexia, but both are learning disabilities.

Dyscalculia = Math

Causes trouble with:

• Understanding arithmetic (numbers) concepts and solving arithmetic problems
• Estimating time, measuring, and budgeting

Also called a Math Learning Disability

Graphic: White chalk on a green chalkboard forms the equation “1 + 1 = 2” and outlined numbers “1 2 3.”

Dyslexia = Written language

Causes trouble with:

• Spelling
• Understanding written sentences
• Recognizing printed words seen before

Also called a Reading Disability

How many people have dyscalculia?

Boys are slightly more likely to have dyscalculia than girls.

What are the risk factors for dyscalculia?

By age 4

Has trouble

• Listing numbers in correct order
• Matching number words or written digits to number of objects
• Counting objects

Age 6–12

Has regular and lasting trouble

• Performing addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division appropriate to grade level
• Recognizing math errors

Age 12+

Has trouble

• Estimating (informed guessing)
• Making exact calculations
• Understanding graphs and charts
• Understanding fractions and decimals

How can adults reduce the risk of dyscalculia in young children?

Show the child that numbers are a normal part of everyday life.

• Mention numbers to your child while doing everyday activities—like grocery shopping or setting the table.
• Count out loud and show the child both the written number word (“three”) and digit (“3”).
• Count actual objects the child can see.
• Compare objects in everyday conversation using words that describe size or amount.

For more information about learning disabilities, visit http://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/learning/conditioninfo. Download a PDF of the infographic.

Source: National Institute of Child Health and Human Development | Infographic: Does your child struggle with Math?, https://www.nichd.nih.gov/newsroom/digital-media/infographics/MathLearningDisability | Public domain. Last reviewed December 2017. Retrieved July 2022.

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