Understanding Developmental Dyscalculia: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
Learn about developmental dyscalculia, a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects math abilities. Discover the signs and symptoms, causes, and treatment options for this condition.
Developmental dyscalculia is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a person's ability to perform mathematical calculations and understand mathematical concepts. It is a specific learning disability that is separate from general learning difficulties or intellectual disability. If your child is struggling with math, it's important to understand the signs and symptoms of this condition and the treatment options that are available.
Signs & symptoms
The signs of developmental dyscalculia can vary widely, but common symptoms include difficulty with basic math concepts, such as counting and number recognition, difficulty with spatial reasoning, and trouble with problem-solving and mathematical reasoning. Children with this condition may also have difficulty with memory, attention, and organization. These symptoms may manifest in different ways, such as difficulty with time-telling, trouble with money, or difficulty with spatial orientation.
Causes of Developmental Dyscalculia
The exact cause of developmental dyscalculia is not yet known, but it is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Research suggests that there may be a genetic component, as it is more common in individuals who have a family history of the disorder. Additionally, brain imaging studies have revealed that there are differences in the way the brains of individuals with developmental dyscalculia process mathematical information.
Treatment options
Treatment options for developmental dyscalculia include a combination of educational interventions, such as special education services or tutoring, and cognitive therapies, such as cognitive training and memory strategies. Occupational therapy may also be helpful in addressing fine motor and visual-spatial difficulties. Medications are not typically used to treat developmental dyscalculia, but may be prescribed if co-occurring conditions such as ADHD are present.
Getting tested
If you suspect that your child may have developmental dyscalculia, it's important to have them evaluated by a qualified professional. An assessment may include a combination of cognitive and achievement tests, as well as observations of the child's math abilities. Your child's teacher may also be able to provide information about their performance in math class. The pediatric and adult neuropsychologists at STLCCH are skilled both in diagnosing this condition as well as providing detailed recommendations for accommodations and interventions if necessary.
Developmental Dyscalculia FAQs
What is developmental dyscalculia?
Developmental dyscalculia is a specific learning disability that affects a person's ability to perform mathematical calculations and understand mathematical concepts.
Is developmental dyscalculia the same as a math learning disorder?
Yes, developmental dyscalculia is a math learning disorder.
What are the signs and symptoms of developmental dyscalculia?
The signs and symptoms of developmental dyscalculia can include difficulty with basic math concepts, such as counting and number recognition, difficulty with spatial reasoning, and trouble with problem-solving and mathematical reasoning. Children with this condition may also have difficulty with memory, attention, and organization.
What causes developmental dyscalculia?
The exact cause of developmental dyscalculia is not yet known, but it is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
How is developmental dyscalculia treated?
Treatment options for developmental dyscalculia include a combination of educational interventions, such as special education services or tutoring, and cognitive therapies, such as cognitive training and memory strategies. Occupational therapy may also be helpful in addressing any fine motor difficulties that may be impacting the individual's ability to perform mathematical tasks. Medications may also be prescribed in some cases to address underlying conditions such as ADHD that may be contributing to the dyscalculia. It is important to note that treatment for dyscalculia is most effective when it is tailored to the individual's specific needs and abilities and when it is begun as early as possible.
