Children with Math Difficulties, Could Be Experiencing Dyscalculia

Your child's academic grades are fine in other subjects, but why does Math always make him uneasy? For that one lesson, the grades are always below average. As if he did not understand all the explanations of his teacher. What really happened? The study found that about 7% of children who sit in elementary school (SD) have dyscalculia or have difficulty learning mathematics. Dyscalculia makes it difficult for children to understand Mathematics, due to certain conditions in the brain. Although it turns out more often experienced by children with ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), but dyscalculia is not a mental disorder, Mother. Let's get to know more.

Recognize Children with Dyscalculia

Mother might wonder what is causing dyscalculia. The cause is unknown. However, this is thought to be due to developmental disorders in the area of ​​the brain that processes information in the form of numbers. This needs to be distinguished from children who are weak in Mathematics because they do not have the support of facilities, cognitive impairment, or other behavioral disorders. Not only from the value of low Mathematics lessons, Mother can recognize children with dyscalculia showing traits such as:

• Panicking every time I meet Mathematics. Even he can also be anxious or disappointed if you find a game or game that requires numeracy skills.
• When other children their age no longer count on their fingers, children with dyscalculia may still do so.
• It's hard to estimate the size, like how tall something is, or how long it will take to travel from one place to another.
• Difficult to understand basic mathematical calculations, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
• Difficult to connect between numbers with words that represent them (1 with ‘one’).
• Difficult to count money and change.
• Difficulty reading hours and remembering combinations of numbers such as telephone numbers.
• Difficulty following gradual instructions.
• Difficult to recognize patterns.
• Confused by similar numbers, such as 75 and 57.
• It could be that today he could work on Math problems, but tomorrow he completely forgot how.

Accompanying Children with Dyscalculia

If indeed your child looks very behind in mathematics, you should not rush to assume he has dyscalculia, Mother. It is better to check with your child to see a doctor to know the possibility of other disorders, such as vision or hearing problems, which may make it difficult to understand the teacher's explanation. If it is suspected that your child has dyscalculia, then the pediatrician will refer to the doctor with related expertise, to be tested. Generally the tests carried out include the ability of mathematics, fluency or ability to count, and the ability to understand words. Maybe the child will be referred to consult a mental health specialist for growth and development, or the child psychologist if necessary. Some of the things below can be a guide Mother to accompany them:

• Recognize the right learning style

This is expected to help him learn Mathematics with another approach. Using objects that can be seen and touched may help children understand the addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Let your child use paper and fingers to count, even if the other child has not done it. In addition, Mother can invite him to play games that involve Mathematics. Music can also be used to teach Mathematics.

• Discuss this condition with the teacher at school

Mother and teacher can work together to find the right solution, such as giving additional lessons. If necessary, children get extra time to do assignments and tests at school. Generally, children need to learn in a quiet place without things that can break their concentration.

• Praise every child's effort

Even though he hasn't achieved the maximum results, always give praise every time he tries hard.

• Helps children manage anxiety

Mother can help children accept their weaknesses, and recognize and support their strengths in other fields. Encourage children to talk about this, so that it can help him manage the anxiety he feels.

Do not label children who are less able to take Math lessons, as a stupid kid, Mother. With the right assistance, children with dyscalculia can overcome the problem, while still developing their abilities in other fields.