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Dyscalculia

Dyscalculia is a specific and persistent difficulty in understanding numbers which can lead to a diverse range of difficulties with mathematics. Often referred to as "maths dyslexia," it impacts skills like basic arithmetic, number sense, and the ability to perform calculations or understand mathematical concepts. People of all ages, sexes and level of education can struggle with Dyscalculia.

People with Dyscalculia may struggle with tasks such as telling time, counting money, measuring, or following sequences in math problems. Despite these challenges, Dyscalculia is not linked to general intelligence; individuals can be just as capable in other areas. The condition can vary in severity and is lifelong, but with appropriate support and strategies, individuals can improve their numeracy skills and manage everyday maths related tasks more effectively.

Dyscalculia Statistics

Prevalence: It is estimated that around 5-7% of the UK population has it, meaning approximately 3.5 to 4.9 million people may be affected.
Diagnosis: Dyscalculia is underdiagnosed compared to dyslexia, with many children and adults not receiving formal assessments, partly due to a lack of awareness and resources.
School performance: Studies show that pupils with Dyscalculia are more likely to fall behind in maths related subjects, with only 22% of pupils meeting expected standards in numeracy by the end of primary school.
Gender: Research in the UK indicates that Dyscalculia affects boys and girls equally, unlike some other learning difficulties, where boys tend to be diagnosed more often.
Workforce impact: Adults with Dyscalculia are more likely to struggle in jobs that require numeracy skills, and a study found that nearly 40% of adults in the UK have numeracy skills equivalent to that expected of an 11-year-old, with Dyscalculia being a contributing factor for some.

The Links Between Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, and Dyspraxia

Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, and Dyspraxia are all neurodevelopmental conditions that can significantly impact learning and daily functioning, and they often co-occur, sharing some overlapping characteristics.
Dyslexia primarily affects reading and language processing, making tasks like decoding words and spelling challenging.
Dyscalculia, on the other hand, specifically impacts numerical understanding and mathematical skills, leading to difficulties with calculations and number sense.
Dyspraxia involves challenges with coordination and motor planning, affecting both fine and gross motor skills, which can hinder tasks like writing or participating in sports.
Individuals may experience these conditions separately or together; research suggests that many people with Dyslexia may also have Dyscalculia and/or Dyspraxia. The interplay between these conditions can compound learning difficulties, affecting academic performance, self-esteem, and social interactions, highlighting the importance of early identification and tailored support strategies to address the unique needs of individuals facing these challenges.

How Dyscalculia Affects Individuals Throughout Their Lives

Dyscalculia affects individuals throughout their lives, influencing many daily tasks and activities beyond the classroom. In childhood, students with Dyscalculia may struggle with basic arithmetic, understanding numbers, and grasping mathematical concepts, which can lead to anxiety and frustration in school.
As adults, these challenges often persist, making it difficult to manage personal finances, follow recipes, or understand measurements.
In the workplace, individuals may find it hard to perform tasks that require numerical reasoning or data management, limiting career options in fields that rely heavily on math. Beyond practical tasks, Dyscalculia can also affect self-esteem, as constant struggles with numbers may lead to feelings of inadequacy or failure. However, with proper support, interventions, and coping strategies, individuals with Dyscalculia can improve their numeracy skills and successfully navigate the challenges they face throughout life.

10 Things Dyscalculia Can Impact

Mathematical Skills – Difficulty with basic arithmetic operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
Number Sense – Challenges in understanding quantities, comparing numbers, and grasping concepts like greater than/less than.
Time Management – Struggles with reading clocks, estimating time, and managing schedules or deadlines.
Spatial Awareness – Issues with understanding spatial relationships, which can affect tasks like following directions or organising physical space.
Memory – Difficulty recalling maths related information, such as multiplication tables or formulas, and remembering sequences of steps in problem-solving.
Financial Literacy – Challenges in managing personal finances, budgeting, and understanding money-related tasks like counting change.
Word Problems – Trouble interpreting and solving word problems that require translating verbal information into mathematical operations.
Written Communication – Issues with writing numbers correctly, leading to confusion between similar-looking digits (e.g., 6 and 9).
Academic Performance – Lower performance in maths related subjects, which can impact overall academic achievement and motivation.
Self-esteem and Confidence – Lower self-esteem due to ongoing difficulties with mathematics, which can lead to anxiety or avoidance of situations that require numerical skills.

Kalmer Counselling for those with Dyscalculia

At Kalmer Counselling our counselling is as unique as you are, therefore we adapt our approach to your needs, experiences and the impact Dyscalculia has had on you. We can work with you to understand and get to know your Dyscalculia in order to develop coping strategies and build self-esteem and confidence. We work with children, young people and adults with a recent or historic diagnosis.

Reach out for support by emailing info@kalmercounselling.co.uk or call us on 01912416731

Kalmer Counselling Sessions

Our Counselling sessions are 50 minutes either online or in person and cost £50 - £65 depending on the counsellor.

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Kalmer Counselling Sessions

Our Counselling sessions are 50 minutes either online or in person and cost £50 - £65 depending on the counsellor.