Dyskalkuliaa

Dyskalkuliaa, also known as dyscalculia, is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent difficulties with understanding and performing arithmetic, despite adequate instruction and intelligence. It typically begins in childhood and affects numerical sense and mathematical reasoning rather than overall cognitive ability.

Common features include problems with number sense (estimating, comparing, ordering), recognizing numerals, place value, retrieving math facts, and solving problems requiring calculation or math reasoning. Difficulties may extend to time, measurement, and money tasks, and they are not simply due to poor effort.

Causes are not fully known, but dyscalculia involves brain networks that process numbers and quantity. Genetic factors contribute, and it often co-occurs with other neurodevelopmental conditions such as ADHD, dyslexia, or autism. It is distinct from math anxiety, which is primarily emotional.

Diagnosis is typically made by educational or clinical professionals through standardized math and cognitive assessments. Criteria vary by country but usually require significant math difficulties that interfere with daily life and cannot be explained by general intelligence or inadequate schooling.

Management relies on explicit, structured instruction and multisensory teaching to build number sense and procedural fluency. Approaches include concrete materials, visual representations, practice, and assistive tools. Accommodations such as extra time and calculators can help in schooling, while family and teacher collaboration supports success.