What are the signs of dyscalculia (aka "dyslexia for numbers")?

• singers Ed Sheeran, Cher, and Robbie Williams

• actors Keira Knightly, Orlando Bloom, and Mary-Kay Olsen

• inventors Albert Einstein and Benjamin Franklin

What do they all have in common?

A disability in learning math called "dyscalculia" (pronounced dis-kal-KYOO-lee-uh).

While many people have problems with or dislike math, dyscalculia is more than that. It's a learning disability that affects how someone is able to process and use numbers in a variety of situations, in ways that others from their peer group do not.

People with dyscalculia have consistent challenges with:

• basic math facts like multiplication tables ✖️

• recognizing quantities under 10 without counting ("subitizing") 🔢

• linking numbers and amounts ⛓️

• mental math and problem-solving 🤔

• telling time on an analog clock ⏲️

• recognizing patterns and sequencing numbers 👀

• money matters (e.g. counting bills, estimating) 💵

• estimating distances and times of arrival 📐

• stating which of two numbers is larger 🗣️

They might often:

• Count or calculate with their fingers, even for simple calculations 🖐️

• Avoid playing games or sports involving keeping score 🏈

• forget frequently called or used numbers (phone, employee, etc.) 🤯

Photo by Mick Haupt on Unsplash

Teachers and parents may be some of the first to notice the signs of dyscalculia. But it should be diagnosed by a professional like a psychiatrist or neuropsychologist.

If you think you might have dyscalculia:

1. Talk to your math teacher and ask them to make note of your areas of trouble.

2. Visit a doctor to rule out any medical issues that might be impacting your learning like vision or hearing impairment, or brain injury. They can also refer you to a psychiatrist or neuropsychologist for assessment.

Photo by Hadija Saidi on Unsplash

Photo by Jeswin Thomas on Unsplash

If you suspect you might have dyscalculia: