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Writer's pictureSusan Ardila

6 Killer Hacks to Boost Numeracy in Kids with Dyscalculia

A young boy using base ten blocks for math
6 Killer Hacks to Boost Numeracy in Kids with Dyscalculia

So, your little one's got a knack for numbers, but dyscalculia's throwing a spanner in the works? Don't panic! We've got your back with these six mind-blowing techniques to dial up their number game. From math muddles to counting conundrums, we've got the inside scoop on turning those math frowns upside down. Get ready for some serious number magic! ✨ #MathMastery #DyscalculiaHacks


1. Near Point Reference

Using a near point reference is like having a secret weapon for students with dyscalculia. Picture this: a number line on their desk, a 100s chart they've conquered, or a half-done multiplication chart with only the VIP facts. Forget boring distant charts - we're talking hands-on, interactive magic here!


Imagine a number line on the desk - it's like a road trip for addition and subtraction! And that 100s chart? It's the backstage pass to place value and number party tricks. These tools give instant, touchable feedback, turning math mysteries into tangible fun!


2. Introducing Concepts with Manipulatives:

Math, as we all know, can get as abstract as pondering the existence of unicorns. So, why not bring in some manipulatives to make it as real as your last embarrassing moment? These tangible tools turn math into a touchy-feely experience - think blocks, beads, or even those random buttons you find in the back of your drawer.


Imagine this: to explain addition and subtraction, you whip out the blocks like a magician pulling a rabbit out of a hat. Watch as the numbers dance around with each block you add or take away. It's like a math party that dyscalculia won't dare to miss!

But hey, let's not get too attached to our blocks. The end game here is to move from tangible to pictorial and finally to abstract. Your little math whiz, once besties with the blocks, will soon be doodling diagrams like a pro. This way, they'll crack math problems like a ninja - no blocks needed! 🧠


3. Begin Lessons with Word Problems

Let's spice up math class! Instead of the same old routine, let's flip the script. Word problems first? Crazy, right? But hey, it might just be the magical formula for our dyscalculia champs. Real-world math - because who needs boring procedures when you can dive straight into the fun stuff? 🌟


Throw a word problem about dividing a pizza among pals in the mix! But hold off on the division algorithm lecture - let your kiddo brainstorm their way through it first. This tactic shows how math actually matters in real life and gives them a target to hit by lesson's end. 🍕


4.Using Accurate Mathematical Language

While it might be tempting to sprinkle math with cute phrases, let's get real - precise math language is the way to go! This builds a solid vocab for those higher-level math marathons. Swap out "borrowing" for "regrouping" and "breaking apart" for "decomposing" - it's like giving math a makeover!🌟


Pro tip: nudge your kiddo to rock this accurate math lingo when they spill the beans on their thought process. It's not just about getting it, it's about flaunting that math vocab like a pro! 🤓


5. Providing Explicit Instruction

Ah, the magic of explicit instruction! While discovery learning has its charm, let's be real - students with dyscalculia need that straightforward, no-nonsense teaching. Think of it as a mathematical GPS - no room for detours here!


So, buckle up, folks! When diving into a new topic, let's break it down like a Lego set. Starting with fractions - because who doesn't love a good fraction party? First, what's the deal with fractions? Then, let's get sassy and compare them, and last but not least, let's rock those fraction operations like a boss!


Visual aids? Check. Repeat after me? Double-check. With explicit instruction, we're making sure those math whizzes with dyscalculia are getting each puzzle piece before we throw in the next one. No more knowledge potholes on this road trip!


6. Incorporate Chanting for Fluency

Why bother with those boring timed fluency tests? Let's jazz it up a bit! Focus on a handful of facts at a time, and sprinkle them throughout the week like confetti. Repetition is the name of the game here, folks. And guess what? Chanting is our secret weapon. The groovy rhythm of chanting will tattoo those facts into your students' brains. Say no to weird ball-throwing exercises; they're like the annoying party crasher of learning, breaking the flow. Stick to the groove of chanting - it's your ticket to turning numbers into a catchy tune! So, let's get our chant on and make those number facts stick like glue! 🎶✨


Final Thoughts and Next Steps


Let's dive into the world of numbers and tackle dyscalculia challenges head-on with these super cool strategies! By mastering these six awesome techniques—using a near point reference, start by solving relatable word puzzles, playing with manipulatives, using super accurate language, rocking explicit instruction and chanting your way to fluency—we'll help kids become number sense superheroes! And hey, for parents seeking extra math magic for their little ones, check out rad places like Math Wizdom! Join us in creating a totally awesome learning vibe where all students shine in their academic adventures! 🚀🌟 #NumberSenseSuperheroes


At Math Wizdom, we're like the fairy godmother of online math tutoring! We wave our magic wands to help students with learning hiccups, like dyscalculia. No abracadabra needed, just contact us today, or go online and book a free consultation, and let's sprinkle some math wizardry on your child's academic adventure! ✨📚 #NumberSenseRevolution


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