Dyscalculia: What you need to know
Dyscalculia is a learning difficulty that affects mathematical skills such as reading and interpreting numbers.
Dyscalculia affects people differently and does not mean a person has low intellectual ability. It might make everyday calculations more difficult, such as adding up, whilst others may have problems reading and interpreting numbers or timetables.
It affects around 1 in 20 people in the UK.
People with dyscalculia may find that they:
- Have low confidence using maths or numbers
- Find it difficult to read, follow or give directions
- Have a hard time remembering numbers or doing equations
Yet people with dyscalculia often have strengths in other areas such as writing, speaking or coming up with new and creative ideas.
What should I do if I think my child has dyscalculia?
If your child finds maths difficult it doesn’t necessarily mean that they have dyscalculia. Around 25% of people struggle with maths, but only 6% of people have dyscalculia.
Dyscalculia is a persistent difficulty with understanding numbers and quantities.
If you’re concerned, speak to your child’s teacher, school nurse or GP who may be able to arrange an assessment. Their school might be able to offer additional support in subjects such as maths or with interpreting timetables and graphs.
