By Learning Disorders

Difficulty remembering math facts (e.g., basic addition, multiplication, etc.) is a key symptom of verbal dyscalculia. If your child struggles in this area, the following strategies can help:

  • Develop a math fact family chart and insert it in a clear sheet protector, so you and your child can write on it. Here is an example of a blank and complete chart:

  • Create dot array cards to practice multiplication and addition facts. Try to increase the speed that you work through the cards with your child. Here is an example of a dot array card:

5 x 3 = 15, 3 x 5 = 15, 5 + 5 + 5 = 15, 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 = 15

  • Create math fact flash cards and attach them to a key ring to facilitate flipping through them
  • Pair math facts with physical movements (e.g., write giant math problems on the sidewalk with chalk)
  • Use paper plates to play hopscotch. For example, write 3, 8, and 24 each on a separate paper plate. Have your child say the math problem aloud (“3 times 8 equals 24) as they land on each plate. Have them jump in different directions to go through other variations (e.g., “24 divided by 8 equals 3″)
  • Create math problems by rolling two dice and adding, subtracting, or multiplying the results
  • Play a game of War with a deck of cards, but have each player draw two cards. Either add, subtract, or multiply the two cards, with the highest total winning all of the cards
  • Write the number 1-12 at the bottom of an empty egg carton (one number per compartment). Put two pennies inside the carton and shake it with the lid closed. Open the carton and add, subtract, or multiply the numbers on which the pennies landed
  • Write a few math facts on Post-it notes and stick them throughout the house. Have your family members answer the facts every time they are near the Post-it
  • Develop creative stories which include math facts
  • Use mnemonics when appropriate (e.g., when multiplying any number by nine, the digits in the total always add up to nine)
  • Create sets of cards where one card has a multiplication problem (e.g., 4 x 5) and the other has the answer (e.g., 20). Play a game of Go Fish with the cards (e.g., the person holding 4 x 5 asks if the other player has 20 or vice versa)

Reference:

Feifer, S. (2017). The neuropsychology of mathematics: An introduction to the FAM. Middletown, MD: School Neuropsych Press, LLC.