Dyscalculia / Learning Disabilities - Mathematics

Dyscalculia or Learning Disabilities in Mathematics, is recognized by the World Health Organization and the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders), but many professionals, including teachers and psychologists working with children, have not even heard of it, and most countries do not recognize it.

Living with Dyscalculia

If you have dyscalculia, it tends to affect every aspect of your life because ability in mathematics is rather highly regarded compared to ability in languages. Children with dyscalculia often live with the belief that they are stupid - and they may be told so by parents and teachers too.

They may portray difficulty in memorizing their multiplication tables, add up, or subtract, and in fact numbers may make no sense to them at all. They may not be able to tell time easily on a non- digital clock, tie their shoe laces or read music notes.

Passing math exams will always be difficult, and sometimes impossible. As adults, people with dyscalculia continue to face unique challenges every day. They may note down phone numbers incorrectly, forget dates and addresses, and be unable to count money. Adding up the cost of groceries may be very confusing without a calculator, and if they use an ATM card remembering the PIN and the steps in swiping the card do not come easily.

"Do not worry about your problems with mathematics, I assure you mine are far greater." - Albert Einstein