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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.

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
  • Telling the difference between adding and subtracting
  • Problems understanding math symbols and word problems
  • Lining up numbers properly to add, subtract, or multiply
  • Arranging numbers from smallest to largest, or the opposite
  • Understanding 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 child's 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.

 

 

Open References

References

Guzman JM, Grajo LC. Learning disabilities and developmental coordination disorder. In: Lazaro RT, ed. Umphred's Neurological Rehabilitation. 8th ed. St. Louis, MO: Elsevier; 2026: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 neurodevelopmental 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.

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              Review Date: 4/18/2026

              Reviewed By: Charles I. Schwartz, MD, FAAP, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, Regional Medical Director of Penn Medicine Primary and Specialty Care, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, General Pediatrician at PennCare for Kids, Phoenixville, PA. 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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