Health Library

Mathematics disorder

Developmental dyscalculia

Mathematics disorder is a condition in which a child's math ability is far below normal for their age, intelligence, and education.

I Would Like to Learn About:

Causes

Children who have mathematics disorder have trouble with simple mathematical activities, such as counting and adding.

Mathematical disorder may appear with:

• Developmental coordination disorder
• Developmental reading disorder
• Mixed receptive-expressive language disorder

Symptoms

The child may have trouble with math, as well as low scores in math classes and on tests.

Problems the child may have are:

• Trouble with reading, writing, and copying numbers
• Problems counting and adding numbers, often making simple mistakes
• A hard time telling the difference between adding and subtracting
• Problems understanding math symbols and word problems
• Can't line up numbers properly to add, subtract, or multiply
• Can't arrange numbers from smallest to largest, or the opposite
• Can't understand graphs

Exams and Tests

Standardized tests can assess the child's math ability. Grades and class performance can also help.

Treatment

The best treatment is special (remedial) education. Computer-based programs may also help.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Early intervention improves the chances of a better outcome.

Possible Complications

The child may have problems in school, including behavior problems and loss of self-esteem. Some children with mathematics disorder become anxious or afraid when given math problems, making the problem even worse.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Contact your health care provider if you have any concerns about your child's development.

Prevention

Recognizing the problem early is important. Treatment may begin as early as kindergarten or elementary school.

Related Information

References

Grajo LC, Guzman J, Szklut SE, Philibert DB. Learning disabilities and developmental coordination disorder. In: Lazaro RT, Reina-Guerra SG, Quiben MU, eds. Umphred's Neurological Rehabilitation. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 12.

Kelly DP, McCain DH. Neurodevelopmental and executive function and dysfunction. In: Kliegman RM, St. Geme JW, Blum NJ, et al, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 22nd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2025:chap 49.

Rapin I. Dyscalculia and the calculating brain. Pediatr Neurol. 2016;61:11-20. PMID: 27515455 pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27515455/.

Sidhu R, O' Banion DD, Hall C. Autism and other developmental disabilities. In: Jankovic J, Mazziotta JC, Pomeroy SL, Newman NJ, eds. Bradley and Daroff's Neurology in Clinical Practice. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2022:chap 90.

Review Date: 4/17/2024  

Reviewed By: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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