Dyscalculia

In one sentence

Dyscalculia is a learning difference that affects number sense and makes understanding and using maths more difficult.

What parents often notice first

• Difficulty recognising quantities or comparing numbers.
• Trouble learning times tables or basic facts.
• Struggling with time, money, or measurement.
• High anxiety around maths lessons or homework.

What this means day-to-day

Everyday maths — telling the time, handling money, estimating, following multi-step problems — can feel confusing and overwhelming. Anxiety can make this even harder.

When to seek help

If maths difficulties persist despite extra teaching and practice, and your child becomes very anxious, distressed, or avoids anything involving numbers.

Who can help

• Educational Psychologist
• Maths Specialist Teacher
• SENCO

Common myths

• Myth: Dyscalculia is just being bad at maths.
  Truth: Dyscalculia is a specific learning difference, not a lack of intelligence or effort.
• Myth: Children with dyscalculia will never cope with maths.
  Truth: With the right support and adjustments, many children can find ways to manage everyday maths demands.