The Experience
Dyscalculia
For individuals with dyscalculia, it can often feel as though numbers have a mind of their own. When looking at a math problem, the numbers might seem to move around on the paper, switch places, or blend together in a confusing way. This shifting effect makes it incredibly difficult to stay focused on the problem at hand, as the brain struggles to process and make sense of the numbers. Look at the numbers below. They should be easy to add together.
But, even simple tasks like adding or subtracting can become overwhelming when the numbers don’t seem to stay still. This visual confusion can add to the frustration and anxiety, making math feel like an impossible challenge. The experience of numbers moving around is one of the many ways dyscalculia impacts how individuals engage with math, making it essential to use supportive strategies, such as manipulatives, visual aids, or step-by-step problem-solving, to help these learners find a path to success. Move your mouse around the photo below.
