Mathematics disorder is a condition in which a child's math ability is far below normal for their age, intelligence, and education.

Developmental dyscalculia

Children who have mathematics disorder may have trouble performing simple mathematical equations, such as counting and adding.

Mathematical disorder may appear with:

• Developmental coordination disorder
• Mixed receptive-expressive language disorder
• Reading disorder

Early difficulties with math are noticed, as well as low scores in math classes and tests.

Some of the problems seen include:

• Trouble with reading, writing, and copying numbers
• Problems counting and adding numbers, often making simple mistakes
• Difficulty telling the difference between adding and subtracting
• Problems understanding math symbols and word problems
• Unable to line up numbers properly to add, subtract, or multiply
• Unable to arrange numbers from smallest to largest, or the opposite
• Unable to understand graphs

Standardized tests can assess the child's math ability. Grades and class performance can also help.

The best treatment is remedial education. Other programs that have been successful include "Project Math" and teaching computer skills.

Early intervention improves the chances of a better outcome.

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.

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have any concerns about your child's development.

Recognizing the problem early is important. Treatment may begin as early as kindergarten or elementary school.

Kelly DP.Neurodevelopmental function and dysfunction in thes chool-aged child. In: Kliegman RM, Behrman RE, Jenson HB, Stanton BF, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 19th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2011:chap 29.