How to Identify Learning Disabilities in Kids

Dyscalculia affects how a child understands numbers and mathematical concepts.

This isn’t just about “being bad at maths.” It’s deeper. A child may struggle to grasp basic ideas like bigger vs smaller, or fail to memorise simple sums like 2+2. Patterns, sequences, and even telling time can feel confusing. Counting, especially backwards, becomes a challenge.

In real life, this shows up in small ways: difficulty handling money, measuring ingredients, or understanding time.

Read about all learning disabilities HERE

How Common Is Dyscalculia in Children Today

When examining how common is dyscalculia, research suggests that it affects approximately 3 to 7 percent of school age children. This places it among the more prevalent learning disabilities, alongside other learning disorders such as dyslexia. According to the diagnostic and statistical manual published by the American Psychiatric Association and American Psychiatric Publishing, dyscalculia falls under the category of a specific learning disorder with impairments in mathematics.

The exact prevalence can vary because developmental dyscalculia depend on how diagnostic criteria are applied across studies and educational systems. Some children may not be formally identified, especially if their difficulties are mistaken for general learning difficulties or lack of practice in math tasks.

Compared to other disorders, dyscalculia often receives less attention, even though its impact on mathematical reasoning and basic math skills can be significant. Students with dyscalculia may struggle silently in math class, particularly when expectations increase with grade level.

Read more HERE