The Art of Mastering Math With Dyslexia

Dyslexia is a different brain organization that needs different teaching methods. It is never the fault of the child, but rather the responsibility of us who teach to find methods that work for that child. – Dr. Maryanne Wolf

Dyslexia affects math and often makes dyslexic child struggle with this subject endlessly. Dyslexic children face difficulty in using and understanding symbols and words, especially those which can’t be picturized. They also struggle with understanding concepts of time and sequence. With mathematics, the problem arises in understanding the symbols used in problems and equations. The root problem of a dyslexic child with math is lack of understanding of specific symbols, concepts, and words. Each dyslexic child has his/her own set of barriers so there might be additional problems also which form a barrier in learning math. Thus, the math trouble doubles with dyslexia.

But, nothing is impossible, as they say. Even dyslexic children can master math and take part in any world level competition like Olympiad or AMC math competition.

Here are some techniques teachers often use worldwide to teach dyslexic children math.

1
Incorporate visual elements in teaching
Fortunately, most dyslexics are blessed with strong visual capabilities and spatial reasoning skills. So, this attribute can be very well used to bring anything to their attention. Incorporating more visual components helps dyslexic children utilize their strength. Kinesthetic learning is also helpful. Both techniques can be used well by using colorful objects, like gemstones or beads. Clay is another good friend of dyslexic children which can be conveniently cut into many objects. Playing with these help children connect the senses which can be very beneficial in developing their learning abilities.
2
Work on micro-skills

Mathematics tests multiple skills of a child. Solving math problems requires a combination of these skills. It means a dyslexic child’s reading ability can also affect his/her ability to solve math. It is obvious that just visual memory is not sufficient to solve math problems. The child also needs to comprehend word problems, for example, if you ask a child, “How many times do 5 go into 15? – It is possible that the only words s/he hears that make sense are five and fifteen. Rest of the words are potential to create confusion and may seem meaningless to the child. Adding to that, s/he may confuse by the numerals as a 15 may look same to 51 to him/her.

We need to visualize the numbers in our head in order to solve the problems. In reading visual tracking help us to follow the line. Building up the micro skills is important.

Dyslexic children need multiple experiments with tricks to help with math. This may involve keeping the brain busy to prevent it from distracting. A teacher can try playing music and experiment with different types. Another trick is to allow the child to use pencils and crayons. It will enable them to develop their own way to solve math problems. This can be supervised by teachers and parents to ensure that if it helps or not.

3
Use songs

Songs can be very powerful learning tools for dyslexic children to learn math. It combines auditory memory and uses rhyme to help children learn development tools. Children are naturally drawn to rhythm and verse. No wonder the endangered playground games that use rhyme is a contributing factor to learning difficulties in children at present. They can be revived to bring back the prompt learning abilities.

4
Instructional methods

Multistep tasks in math problems can be difficult for dyslexic children as they face trouble organizing, naming, and sequencing. However, instructional methods can be used to explain the meaning and context through physically organizing objects, writing the process down and naming the action.

Activities that involve visualizing, walking and talking problems are effective in oral and written output, develop vocabulary and build organizational skills. 
5
Motivation

When solving mathematics problems, error of no-attempt is a common obstacle among dyslexic as well as non-dyslexic children. It is common for a dyslexic child to look at a problem and does not begin it by simply assuming that s/he would not get the right answer. Motivational difficulties are the biggest hindrance to learning math. Repeated failure, mismatched learning styles, manner of instruction, comments of teachers or parents, fear of embarrassment of failure triggers this problem. Therefore, parents and teachers keep motivating the child which will help the child to stay away from negative thoughts, like ‘I hate math’ or ‘My teacher doesn’t like teaching me.’

Parents and mentors play a major role in helping a dyslexic child learn math. Experimenting and finding the right solution must be done by any of them. Playing around different ideas and close observance may take time, but it will help the child to learn math.