How Dyslexia REALLY Affects Math: Beyond the Reading Struggles

Many parents are surprised to learn that dyslexia, a learning difference typically associated with reading difficulties, can also significantly impact math skills. While it might seem unexpected, there's a strong connection between these two areas of learning. What’s even more surprising is that I’ve worked with several students who were above grade level in math although they were several grade levels behind in reading due to dyslexia. This is more common than you might think.

Here at Unboggle, we understand the challenges that dyslexia can present and are passionate about helping children thrive. Today, we'll explore how dyslexia affects math skills and provide practical strategies to support your child's learning journey.

Understanding Dyslexia: Beyond Reading Challenges

Dyslexia is a learning difference that primarily affects language processing. According to Dr. Sally Shaywitz, a leading expert in dyslexia research, it can hinder a child's ability to "break apart" spoken words into individual sounds (phonemic awareness) and to fluently connect letters to sounds (decoding) [1]. These core challenges can extend beyond reading and writing, impacting other cognitive areas, including math.

How Dyslexia Affects Math Skills: Unexpected Connections

Let's delve deeper into how dyslexia can manifest in math:

• Working Memory Woes: Imagine trying to solve a complex equation while juggling multiple numbers in your head. Working memory, the brain's temporary storage for information, is crucial for this task. Many children with dyslexia struggle with working memory, making it difficult to retain numbers and steps involved in calculations, leading to errors and frustration.

  
  

For instance, a child with dyslexia might struggle to remember the multiple steps involved in long division or carrying over numbers in addition problems.

• Sequencing and Order Issues: Math relies heavily on following the correct order of operations. Unfortunately, difficulties with sequencing and organization, common in dyslexia, can create challenges in understanding number lines, aligning numbers in calculations, and grasping time concepts.

  
  

This can manifest as a child reversing digits in a number (writing 13 instead of 31) or struggling with the concept of "before" and "after" in word problems.

• Visual-Spatial Challenges: Visual-spatial skills play a vital role in interpreting graphs, understanding geometric shapes, and visualizing math concepts. Children with dyslexia may have difficulty with spatial relationships, leading to challenges with geometry, measurement, and interpreting visual representations of data.

  
  

Imagine a child struggling to grasp the concept of area or perimeter because they have difficulty visualizing the space involved.

• Processing Speed: Quick recall of math facts and efficient execution of calculations are essential for math fluency. Slower processing speed, sometimes experienced by children with dyslexia, can make it difficult to keep up in class, increase the time needed to complete assignments, and contribute to math anxiety.

  
  

This might look like a child struggling to recall multiplication facts quickly or taking significantly longer than their peers to finish timed math tests.

• Language and Math Vocabulary: Don't underestimate the role of language in math! Understanding word problems, interpreting mathematical terms (like "sum," "difference," "product"), and explaining mathematical reasoning all require strong language skills. Challenges with decoding and language processing can make it difficult for children with dyslexia to grasp word problems, understand mathematical vocabulary, and articulate their thought processes.

  
  

For instance, a child with dyslexia might struggle to decipher what a word problem is asking or misinterpret mathematical terms like "fraction" or "decimal."

Personal Experience

It’s easy to assume that if a child is strong in math, they couldn’t possibly be struggling with dyslexia. This is a misconception I’ve encountered firsthand many times throughout my career. One student in particular, Mikal, perfectly illustrates this point. Mikal was in the 3rd grade when I began working with him, but he was easily on a 5th-grade level in math! He knew all his spelling words, read fluently, and maintained As and Bs in school. Even his teachers hadn't picked up on any learning differences. It wasn't until his private tutor noticed spelling mistakes typical of students with dyslexia, along with struggles in phonemic awareness (like blending sounds to read words and substituting sounds to make new words), that she suspected dyslexia.

This is where things get interesting. Two years later, Mikal began to struggle with math. He had to work much harder to maintain his “above grade level” math capabilities, and by the time he entered 6th grade, he was falling behind in math. This highlights how the underlying language processing challenges associated with dyslexia can eventually impact math skills, even in students who initially excel in the subject. As Louisa Moats, an expert in literacy, states, "Reading is not natural to the human brain. It has to be taught." [2] This same principle can be applied to math when a learning difference like dyslexia is present.

Recognizing the Signs: When to Seek Help

While these difficulties can vary in severity and presentation, here are some common signs to look for:

• Difficulty memorizing math facts

• Problems with multi-step calculations

• Struggles with time concepts and sequencing

• Difficulties with place value and understanding number relationships

• Challenges with geometry and spatial reasoning

• Increased frustration and anxiety related to math

If you notice several of these signs in your child, it's important to seek professional help. A qualified educator or therapist can conduct a thorough evaluation to identify any underlying learning differences and recommend appropriate support strategies.

Strategies and Support: Empowering Your Child in Math

The good news is that with the right support, children with dyslexia can excel in math! Here are some strategies to consider:

• Multisensory Learning: Engaging multiple senses can significantly enhance learning. Incorporate manipulatives like blocks or counters, use visual aids like number lines and graphs, and encourage hands-on activities to solidify math concepts.

• Break Down the Steps: Don't overwhelm your child with complex problems. Break down multi-step math problems into smaller, more manageable steps to promote understanding and reduce frustration.

• Visual Supports: Visual aids can be powerful tools for children with dyslexia. Utilize number lines, graph paper, and visual organizers to help with sequencing, organization, and understanding spatial relationships.

• Addressing Working Memory Challenges: Mnemonic devices, using scratch paper to jot down steps, and repeating instructions can help children with working memory limitations retain information more effectively.

• Focus on Understanding, Not Just Memorization: Rote memorization can be particularly challenging for children with dyslexia. Focus on building a deep conceptual understanding of math principles rather than simply memorizing formulas or procedures.

At Unboggle, we understand the complexities of dyslexia and its impact on learning. We offer specialized tutoring services designed to address the unique needs of each child, including those struggling with math. We focus on building foundational skills, developing effective learning strategies, and fostering a positive learning environment where children can thrive. For assistance with your child’s education, please visit our website to see how we can help.

Thank you! Happy learning!

References:

[1] Shaywitz, S. E. (2003). Overcoming dyslexia: A new and complete science-based program for reading problems at any level. Alfred1 A. Knopf.

[2] Moats, L. C. (2020). Speech to print: Language essentials for teachers. Paul H. Brookes Publishing.