Could it be Dyscalculia?

💛 Why Some Kids Struggle With Math

If your child tries hard in math but still feels lost with numbers, you’re not alone — and neither are they.

Some children have what’s called dyscalculia, a learning difference that affects how the brain understands and works with numbers. It’s kind of like dyslexia, but for math. Kids with dyscalculia are often bright and creative — they just process quantities, patterns, and number relationships differently.

The good news? Researchers are learning a lot about how to better support these learners. Here are a few highlights from recent studies (2023–2025) that give us hope and direction.

🧠 1. It’s Not About “Being Bad at Math” —

It’s About How the Brain Sees Numbers

A 2024 study found that kids with dyscalculia struggle across many kinds of math problems — not just arithmetic. Interestingly, they often did better on multiple-choice questions than on open-ended ones.

👉 What that means: The way we ask math questions can change how successful a child feels. Sometimes it’s not the math skill — it’s how the question is shown or explained.

💡 2. Memory and Focus Are Big Parts of Math Learning

Research shows that working memory (holding information in your mind) and focus are major pieces of the math puzzle. Kids with dyscalculia often need extra support in these areas, too.

👉 What that means: Games and activities that build attention, visualization, and memory can strengthen math learning — even if they’re not “math drills.”

3. Learning Through Play Really Works

One of the most exciting findings from 2025 research is that game-based learning can actually change how children’s brains respond to math. After playing math-based digital games, kids showed stronger brain activity in number areas.

👉 What that means: When math feels fun and playful, children’s brains light up — literally! Learning through games, movement, and exploration can make a big difference.

❤️ 4. Every Child’s Story Is Different

Many kids with dyscalculia also have other learning differences like ADHD or reading challenges. That’s normal — brains are complex!

👉 What that means: If your child struggles in more than one area, don’t lose hope. The right supports can be layered to meet their unique needs.

🌍 5. These Challenges Happen Everywhere

A 2024 study in Egypt showed that dyscalculia affects kids around the world, no matter where they live or go to school.

👉 What that means: You’re not alone. Math learning differences are common, and understanding them helps us build better schools and resources for all children.

🧮 6. Hands-On Learning Still Matters

Not all math help happens on screens! A 2024 study showed that abacus practice helped kids improve focus and number sense. Another 2025 study used robots to teach math — and it boosted confidence and motivation.

👉 What that means: Kids learn best when they can see, touch, and move while thinking. Tools like beads, blocks, or even robots help math come alive.

🌈 The Big Picture: Hope and Growth

Dyscalculia doesn’t mean a child can’t learn math — it means they need to learn it differently. With the right approach, they can build strong number sense and confidence.

The takeaway from all this research is simple but powerful:

Every child can grow in math when we understand how their brain learns best.

💬 For Parents

If your child gets anxious or frustrated with math, start by looking for patterns: Do they struggle more with remembering facts, visualizing numbers, or organizing their thinking? Early screening and the right support can make a huge difference.

And remember — math is more than memorizing. It’s about thinking, exploring, and discovering patterns. When learning feels playful, encouraging, and hands-on, every child can find joy in numbers.

✨ About Math3 Collaborative

At Math3 Collaborative, we believe math should feel alive — full of movement, meaning, and curiosity.We help children build strong number sense and confidence through personalized, brain-based learning experiences.

🧩 Want to learn more about supporting your child’s math journey? or [🌿 Schedule a free consultation] to get started.