Dyscalculia, which some people think of as “maths dyslexia,” is a specific learning difficulty (SpLD) affecting the ability to understand and work with numbers. While it is not as well-known as other SpLDs, it can significantly impact a person’s academic, professional and everyday life. If you’ve ever asked yourself, ‘Do I have dyscalculia?’ we’re here to help. In this blog post, we will explore the signs of dyscalculia and how to recognise if you or someone you know might be dyscalculic.
What is dyscalculia?
Dyscalculia is a specific learning difficulty (SpLD) that impacts a person’s ability to understand, process, and manipulate numbers and mathematical concepts. It’s important to understand that dyscalculia is not simply finding maths more difficult. It’s a neurological condition that affects how the brain processes numerical information.
Do I have dyscalculia? Recognising the signs
Dyscalculia can present differently in different people, and the level of impact on a person’s life can vary.
Here are some common signs that may indicate you may be dyscalculic:
- Difficulty with basic arithmetic: If you often have trouble with basic arithmetic operations, like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, it could be a sign of dyscalculia.
- Number recognition challenges: Dyscalculic people often find it difficult to recognise numbers, whether they are written, spoken, or presented in other ways.
- Issues with sequences: Recognising and understanding number sequences, like the order of numbers or graph lines, can be challenging.
- Inconsistent comprehension: You might find that your grasp of maths varies: you could perform well sometimes, but struggle other times with the same concept.
- Poor estimation skills: Estimating quantities and measurements might be difficult, and you may often find it challenging to gauge how much of something you need.
- Difficulty telling time: Reading analogue and digital clocks, understanding concepts of time, or keeping track of time can cause problems.
- Difficulty with money and finance: Handling money, working out change, and managing finances might be daunting tasks.
- Memory and processing issues: Difficulty remembering mathematical formulas, concepts, and sequences can be a common sign.
- Maths anxiety: Struggling with maths due to dyscalculia can lead to maths anxiety and reduced self-esteem.
Seeking support for dyscalculia
If you think that you are dyscalculic based on the signs we have shared, professional assessment and personalised support can make a big difference to your wellbeing and quality of life. The following steps can help you on your journey:
- Professional evaluation: A qualified educational psychologist or specialist assessor will be able to deliver a comprehensive assessment to determine whether you are dyscalculic
- Develop strategies: If you’ve received a diagnosis, work with professionals (like our experienced needs assessors) to develop personalised strategies for your specific needs. These strategies can help you overcome the challenges associated with dyscalculia.
- Request accommodations: In educational settings like school or university, you can ask for accommodations, like additional time on tests, the use of assistive technology, and individual instruction.
- Build maths confidence: Work on building your maths confidence by practising and using resources and support services available to you.
- Inform others: Make sure your teachers, professors or employers are aware of your dyscalculia: it means they can introduce the accommodations and support you need.
Recognising the signs of dyscalculia and seeking support can help you tackle the challenges associated with this specific learning difficulty. Dyscalculia doesn’t have to be a barrier to your success in school, work or life.
With the right assessment, support and strategies, you can develop your maths skills and build confidence in your numerical abilities. These steps can help you thrive in both educational and everyday settings. Don’t hesitate to ask for help and start the journey to better understand yourself and your dyscalculia.