Dyscalculia is a specific learning disability that affects number sense. Almost everyone has heard of Dyslexia, however not everyone has an understanding or has heard of Dyscalculia. It affects about 5% of the population which is why a lot of people have not heard of it. It is often referred to as number Dyslexia. Dyscalculia is sometimes referred to as a math disability but it only affects number sense. Therefore a learner may be really adept at geometry for example. Most students who are Dyscalculic will often have anxiety surrounding the subject of math. There is a lot that we have learned through research within the last 20 years that is bringing more accessibility to Dyscalculic learners through multisensory teaching methods .
Indicators that your child may have Dyscalculia or Dyscalculia tendencies.
-Lack of number sense
-Inability to subitise (see without counting) even small quantities
-Inability to estimate reasonable numerical values
-Difficulty with sequencing
-Inability to notice patterns
-Struggle with short and long term memory
-Difficulty in counting backwards
-Weakness in spatial and visual orientation
-Delayed processing speed in math activities
-Weak time management skills
-Delayed in learning to read an analog clock
-Problems with all aspects of money
-Confusion with directional positions (left/right)
-Struggle writing numbers out (often confusion with 3s, 6s, 9s, 7s, written backwards)
