In a mental health crisis? Call or text 988.
Get help:
(Medi-Cal)
In a mental health crisis? Call or text 988.

CHC Resource Library

Dyscalculia (dis-kal-KYOO-lee-uh) is not as well known as dyslexia, but both are learning disabilities.

Dyscalculia = Math

Causes trouble with:

  • Understanding arithmetic (numbers) concepts and solving arithmetic problems
  • Estimating time, measuring, and budgeting

Also called a Math Learning Disability

Graphic: White chalk on a green chalkboard forms the equation “1 + 1 = 2” and outlined numbers “1 2 3.”

Dyslexia = Written language

Causes trouble with:

  • Spelling
  • Understanding written sentences
  • Recognizing printed words seen before

Also called a Reading Disability

How many people have dyscalculia?

Boys are slightly more likely to have dyscalculia than girls.

What are the risk factors for dyscalculia?

By age 4

Has trouble

  • Listing numbers in correct order
  • Matching number words or written digits to number of objects
  • Counting objects

Age 6–12

Has regular and lasting trouble

  • Performing addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division appropriate to grade level
  • Recognizing math errors

Age 12+

Has trouble

  • Estimating (informed guessing)
  • Making exact calculations
  • Understanding graphs and charts
  • Understanding fractions and decimals

How can adults reduce the risk of dyscalculia in young children?

Show the child that numbers are a normal part of everyday life.

  • Mention numbers to your child while doing everyday activities—like grocery shopping or setting the table.
  • Count out loud and show the child both the written number word (“three”) and digit (“3”).
  • Count actual objects the child can see.
  • Compare objects in everyday conversation using words that describe size or amount.

For more information about learning disabilities, visit http://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/learning/conditioninfo. Download a PDF of the infographic.

Source: National Institute of Child Health and Human Development | Infographic: Does your child struggle with Math?, https://www.nichd.nih.gov/newsroom/digital-media/infographics/MathLearningDisability | Public domain. Last reviewed December 2017. Retrieved July 2022.
CHC is here for you. Sign up for the CHC Virtual Village to receive weekly email updates about upcoming news, events and resources related to your interests.

To schedule an evaluation or to get advice, call or email a CHC Care Coordinator at 650.688.3625 or careteam@stage.chconline.org CHC teletherapy services are available now.


This resource is filed under:

Back to Top