My Child Was Just Diagnosed With Dyscalculia. Now What?

Dyscalculia isn’t as well-known as other learning and thinking differences, such as dyslexia. In fact, many parents never hear of this math issue until their child is evaluated and found to have it. But it’s important to know there are ways to help kids with dyscalculia succeed in school and in life. Follow these steps to help your child get the support she needs, both in class and at home.

Find out all you can about dyscalculia.

Learn about skills dyscalculia can affect, including number sense and visual-spatial processing. Dyscalculia can also impact your child’s social life. Debunk common myths about dyscalculia. You can also explore expert answers to common questions parents have about math issues and find out how signs of dyscalculia may look over time.

Investigate dyscalculia treatments and therapies.

Talk to your child’s doctor about treatment options. These may include speech therapy, which can help kids who struggle with the language of math. It may also include educational therapy or occupational therapy, depending on your child’s specific needs. Ask any questions you have about other therapy options. And become familiar with the terms you might hear from teachers, doctors and specialists.

Discuss dyscalculia supports and services with the school.

Schedule a meeting with the school and provide a copy of any reports from specialists or pediatricians. Even if the school has done its own evaluation, having an outside evaluation and recommendations can help with the IEP or 504 plan process. Discuss which informal supports or classroom accommodations might be appropriate. You can also ask about assistive technology and tutors.

Teach your child to self-advocate.

Talk with your child about her learning differences. Discuss ways she can ask for help for her dyscalculia in grade school or middle school. Learning to self-advocate is a skill that can offer benefits throughout her lifetime.

Understand the possible emotional impact.

Kids with learning and thinking differences can have a higher risk for mental health issues. Learn about the signs of anxiety and depression. Talk to your child’s doctor if you have any concerns.

Learn what you can do at home.

There are lots of fun ways to build in stress-free math practice after school and on weekends. Tap into her interests and use her strengths. Explore ways to build her self-esteem and help her stay motivated.

Master homework help.

Create a homework space that works for your child. Learn about why your child may get tripped up on math assignments and discover ways to help your child with tricky math homework. If your child is in grade school, explore tips to help her learn multiplication.

Find support.

Contact your local Parent Training and Information Center (PTI) to learn about helpful services near you. And connect with other parents of children with dyscalculia in our community.

Keep in touch with the school.

Ask questions about the school’s math instruction and about how your child is doing in class. Staying in contact with your child’s teachers will also help you know whether her supports and services are working.