If your hard-working teen is putting in the time to succeed but still falling behind in their mathematics coursework, you may be surprised to find that there could be a neurological learning disability at the root of the problem. Dyscalculia can affect how numbers are perceived or calculated, and this can make even the most basic arithmetic extremely difficult to process.
If you suspect your teen might have this problem and is becoming aggressive as a result, consider speaking with a representative from Venture Academy to see if their services can support your teen in their growth.
Symptoms of Dyscalculia
Dyscalculia is a very common disorder but is sometimes referred to as “number dyslexia.” This is because, like dyslexia, dyscalculia correlates with instances of ADHD in young people. It’s important to note that while many students have difficulty with math, the volume and complexity of the dyscalculia sufferer will be much higher than their peers, and the difficulties will accelerate as much of mathematics compounds on already-learned information. Some of the signs to watch for to determine if your teen is having difficulty with math and you suspect they may have dyscalculia include:
- Your teen may lose track of which number they are on or what comes next when counting. Also, your teen may use markers to make basic calculations. These markers may be counting on fingers or making marks on a piece of paper.
- They may have trouble “subitizing” or estimating grouped numbers based on number memory, such as when rolling dice.
- Your teen may struggle with patterns, zip codes, or phone numbers. They may also be unable to link visual numbers to the words they correspond to (for example, 2 and two.)
- They may experience extreme anxiety when they know that they will have to perform in number-related activities, such as counting off in the classroom, reading clocks, taking tests, keeping score, or playing games that involve math.
- Your teen may struggle with concepts that use math, such as counting money, telling time, explaining or reading distance and directions, or measuring amounts.
If these symptoms sound familiar for your teen, consider getting them evaluated by a professional for dyscalculia.
What if My Teen Has Dyscalculia?
While there are no conventional medications for the treatment of dyscalculia, there are many ways to support your teen improve their learning process. Some of these therapies include:
- Therapeutic treatment of anxiety symptoms, dyslexia, or ADHD if present
- Instruction support that is specialized to their learning struggles
- Private tutoring with a qualified professional
- Extended time on tests or additional tools to support a testing environment like a calculator, organizer, or instructional app
- Board games or apps that provide support from within the home environment
- Instruction that takes learning styles into consideration
If your teen is struggling, help is available. There are many treatment possibilities with programs like those offered at Venture Academy and with the help of a treatment care provider. It may take a team to tackle this problem, but once your teen has the right support, they can meet and exceed their goals.
Overcome Dyscalculia with Assistance from Venture Academy
Watching your teen struggle with an issue like dyscalculia can be very frustrating for your teen and your family, but it is possible to find them the treatment they need to succeed. With Venture Academy’s 30-day assessment and intervention program and behaviour treatment, your teen can learn new tools that are specific to their learning and communication styles so that you can get back to working together as a family with less worry.
If you are still feeling unsure, take our interactive child behaviour test 866.762.2211. It only takes about five minutes of your time and may assist you in your evaluation process as you consider the best steps to take in helping your teen excel in mathematics and life.
