What is Dyscalculia?

Dyscalculia can be described as a learning difference, that can make it hard to understand, use or learn maths and numbers.

The learning difference was first discovered in 1919 by Swedish Neurologist Salomon Henschen. It was found that people with high intelligence could still struggle and have impaired mathematical abilities. Dyscalculia has also been called "Number Blindness" and "Number Dyslexia".

Where does the term "Dyscalculia" come from? 

The term Dyscalculia was first used in 1949 and comes from Greek and Latin terms. "Dys" is Greek for "impaired or abnormal", and "Calculia" comes from the Latin meaning "To Count"

What are the early signs of Dycalculia in Children?

Symptoms and signs of Dyscalculia in children can be different in each person. As such it is always best to have a professional diagnose it. With that being said, here are a few early signs:

• Struggle with Mental Maths
• Struggles with Counting
• Difficulty spotting Patterns
• Lack of Grasp on Numbers
• Trouble relating Numbers to Objects

What causes Dyscalculia in Children?

Whilst we do not have a clear understanding of why these skills develop slower compared to others, several risks have been identified which can increase a child’s likelihood of developing Dyscalculia:

• Genetics - Dyscalculia can be hereditary and can run in families.
• Genetic Disorders - Disorders such as Turner's Syndrome, Fragile X Syndrome and Williams Syndrome can increase the risk.
• Drinking while pregnant.
• Taking illegal drugs while pregnant.
• If the individual already has other learning differences such as Dyslexia

Are there any famous people who have been diagnosed with Dyscalculia?

Yes! Many famous people across the world have been diagnosed with Dyscalculia and have chosen not to let their diagnosis hold them back. Microsoft founder Bill Gates, founding father Benjamin Franklin, singer Cher and physicist Albert Einstein are all diagnosed with the condition.

Is there a cure for Dyscalculia?

No. In short, there is no cure for Dyscalculia. It is a lifelong condition that can not be cured. However, there are a number of therapies and treatments that can be applied to help reduce effects later in life. These include:

• Specialised Accommodation - allowing extra time at school for tests, frequent checks during class or using reference charts and diagrams
• Specialised Instructions for Children
• Technology - Calculators and math apps can make help maths easier
• Coping Mechanisms

Sources: British Dyslexia Association, IDL, Understood, Wikipedia

Written and Edited by Max Mannouch