Math difficulties

Many children find math hard and many adults remember their own school math struggles. Often, children think, “This is boring” or “I’ll never use this.” For some, math just doesn’t “click.”

Young children who have trouble with math might take a long time to recognize numbers or patterns or learn how to count. As they get older and learn numbers, they might have difficulty with addition, subtraction, and later, with algebra. Outside of school, these children might also have a hard time remembering numbers like phone numbers or game scores. They might struggle to read clocks, count money, or even estimate distances or time for tasks.

When these difficulties are not identified and understood, they can lead to frustration, fear of making mistakes, low self-esteem, and even avoiding school. It’s important to remember that every child has their own pace. But if time passes and the difficulty remains even with support from school, it’s time to take a closer look.

What is typical?

Learning math is a developmental skill, and children develop math skills over time. Here’s what you might expect to see at different ages:

• Between ages 5 and 6: Children can count to 20, both forwards and backwards, associate numbers and quantities between 1 and 10, compare two amounts, and understand simple concepts like big/small and before/after.
• By age 7: Most children can count to 100 and begin to understand addition and subtraction.
• By age 9: Children start to understand multiplication and division.
• By age 10: Children learn advanced concepts like fractions, decimals, variables, and basic geometry.

It is okay if a child makes mistakes or needs more time on certain topics. The important thing is to see if there is progress over time.

Even if a child takes longer, they should be able to learn with different explanations and the use of hands-on materials like blocks or games.

When should I be concerned?

There are several signs that show a child may be having math difficulties. These signs can vary based on the child’s age.

For young children:

• Recognizing numbers: Your child may have trouble recognizing numbers.
• Learning to count: Your child may experience delays in learning to count.
• Connecting numbers with words: Your child may find it difficult to connect numbers (like 5) with words (like “five”).
• Comparing numbers: Your child may not know which of two numbers is larger.
• Recognizing patterns: Your child may struggle to recognize patterns or order things from smallest to largest.
• Adding single-digit numbers: Your child may have difficulty adding single-digit numbers without visual aids.

For older children:

• Basic math operations: Your child may struggle to learn basic math operations like addition and subtraction.
• Understanding word problems: Your child may have trouble understanding word problems.
• Estimating time: Your child may find it hard to estimate how long a task will take.
• Math homework and tests: Your child may struggle with math homework and tests.
• Keeping up in math class: Your child may have difficulty keeping up with classmates in math.
• Visual math concepts: Your child may struggle with visual ideas like graphs and charts.

Outside of school:

• Remembering numbers: Your child may forget common numbers like phone numbers or game scores.
• Counting money: Your child may have trouble counting money or estimating costs.
• Reading clocks: Your child may have difficulty reading clocks or telling time.
• Judging distances: Your child may have problems judging distances or measurements.
• Remembering directions: Your child may struggle to remember directions.
• Keeping score in games: Your child may have difficulty keeping score in games.
• Frustration with math tasks: Your child may get upset when they cannot solve a math problem.

In addition to these signs, it is important to notice if the difficulty is affecting your child’s well-being, self-esteem, and school progress.

What can I do to help?

As a caregiver, being patient and supportive is important when helping a child with math difficulties. Here are some things you can try:

1. Talk with your child’s teacher.Teachers know the skills expected for each age and can help you understand the difficulty and suggest things to do at home.
2. Use everyday math.Involve your child in cooking or shopping to practice counting, measuring, and adding. This makes math fun and relatable.
3. Play math games.Use board games or apps that involve numbers and problem-solving. These games can improve math skills while keeping your child entertained.
4. Practice math facts.Use flashcards or apps to help your child memorize basic math facts like addition and multiplication. This builds a strong foundation for more complex math.
5. Create a math-friendly environment.Have math tools like rulers, calculators, and graph paper available. Encourage your child to use them during homework or play.
6. Set a regular math time.Dedicate a specific time each day for math practice. Consistency helps reinforce learning and builds routine.
7. Break tasks into smaller steps.Help your child tackle math problems by breaking them into smaller, manageable parts. This reduces frustration and boosts confidence.
8. Praise effort, not just results.Encourage your child by acknowledging their hard work and persistence. This fosters a positive attitude towards learning math.

If your child makes a mistake, avoid scolding them. Ask them how they thought about the problem and let them explain their reasoning. Often, they are trying to get it right but just need more time and support.

What kind of professional support can I seek out?

Sometimes, caregivers feel concerned if their child has difficulties with mathematics. Others hope the issue will resolve on its own. If your child’s math difficulties persist for more than a few weeks, seek an evaluation from a professional or assistance from your child’s school. Addressing the issue early is beneficial for your child’s mathematical skills and confidence.

There are several types of professionals who can help, including special education teachersand learning specialistsat school. You can also talk to your child’s pediatricianor family doctor. These professionals can guide you on the first steps and, if needed, refer you to a specialist.

The most important thing is not to leave your child to face this alone. With the right support, they can learn, regain self-confidence, and develop their own ways of understanding the world of numbers.

You can also find free support through the Unified Health System (SUS). Care often begins at your local Basic Health Unit (UBS). Other services include Child and Adolescent Psychosocial Care Centers (CAPS i), specialty centers, and clinics at university hospitals.