Important to Know

Dyscalculia can present differently for each child.

Seeing one or two signs does not necessarily mean your child has dyscalculia. However, if you notice:

• Multiple signs
• Ongoing maths difficulties
• Increasing frustration or anxiety

​…it may be worth exploring further.

Learn More About Dyscalculia Support

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Early Years (Ages 4–6)

Children at this stage are developing early number awareness.

Possible Signs

• Difficulty learning to count
• Trouble recognising numbers
• Difficulty understanding concepts like “more” or “less”
• Trouble sorting or grouping objects
• Difficulty recognising patterns

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Primary School (Ages 6–8)

Maths becomes more structured and skills-based.

Possible Signs

• Difficulty learning basic maths facts (e.g. addition, subtraction)
• Trouble understanding number relationships
• Confusion with place value
• Difficulty solving simple problems
• Taking longer than peers to complete maths tasks
• Avoidance of maths work

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Primary School (Ages 8–12)

Maths concepts become more complex.

Possible Signs

• Difficulty with multi-step problems
• Trouble understanding concepts like time, money, or fractions
• Difficulty remembering maths procedures
• Struggles with problem-solving
• Ongoing confusion with numbers
• Maths anxiety or avoidance

Why Is My Child Struggling With Maths?

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What Causes Dyscalculia?

Dyscalculia can be linked to challenges in:

• Understanding number concepts (number sense)
• Memory and processing speed
• Visual-spatial skills
• Language and comprehension of maths problems

​It is important to understand:

• It is not due to lack of effort
• It is not related to intelligence
• With the right support, children can build maths skills over time

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Dyscalculia vs “Just Struggling With Maths”

Many children find maths challenging at times.

​However, dyscalculia is typically:

• Persistent over time
• More significant than expected for age
• Not improving with standard teaching alone

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What To Do If You Notice These Signs

1. Speak with Your Child’s Teacher

• Understand how your child is progressing
• Identify specific areas of difficulty

2. Observe Patterns at Home

• Is the difficulty with understanding, memory, or applying concepts?
• Does your child avoid maths tasks?

3. Support Maths in Everyday Activities

• Use real-life examples (e.g. shopping, cooking)
• Keep learning practical and engaging

4. Consider Professional Support
Allied health professionals can help identify underlying challenges and provide targeted strategies.

5. Consider an Assessment
An assessment can:

• Identify learning difficulties
• Clarify whether dyscalculia may be present
• Guide appropriate supports

How to Get a Learning Assessment in WA

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How We Support Children with Dyscalculia

Occupational Therapy (OT)

• Supporting attention and task engagement
  
• Visual processing and organisation
  
• Functional participation in school tasks
  

​Speech Pathology (SP)

• Understanding maths language
  
• Breaking down word problems
  
• Supporting comprehension
  

Psychology Assessments

• Cognitive and academic assessments
  
• Diagnostic clarification
  
• Reports for school supports
  

Counselling Support

• Managing maths anxiety
  
• Supporting confidence
  
• Reducing frustration
  

Positive Behaviour Support (PBS)

• Addressing avoidance behaviours
  
• Supporting engagement in maths tasks
  
• Practical strategies for home and school
  

Telehealth Across WA

• Flexible access to services
  
• Support regardless of location
  

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Check Out Our Dyscalculia Signs Checklist

Dyscalculia Signs Checklist

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When to Seek Support

It may be helpful to seek support if:

• Maths difficulties are ongoing
  
• Your child is becoming anxious or avoiding tasks
  
• Progress is slower than expected
  

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Not Sure?
​
If you’re unsure whether your child’s maths difficulties may be linked to dyscalculia, we can help guide you through the next steps.
Contact us to get started
Ask about maths support or assessments
Access services across Perth, Mandurah, and WA

​Book a free 20-minute call with our team

Our team is here to help call us on 08 9586 3934 or send us an email here

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Have a question? or need more information

Our friendly team are happy to help call us on 08 9586 3934 or send us a message

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Phone: 08 9586 3934

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