Dyscalculia Hacks for Parents
10 Hacks for Home
- Maintain a structured routine to ensure your child’s mind-body balance
- Keep kiddos hydrated and engage them in regular physical activity
- Make sure your child naps daily, even if it is just 20 minutes of quiet time in bed
- Have your child play with dyscalculia-friendly apps at home and observe them. This will help you know where they are struggling
- Invite your child to bake with you and review measurement and quantity
- Play games daily with your child that involve basic math: Monopoly, card, games, Yahtzee
- Keep a colorful abacus at home to play with
- Make sure your child plays outdoors outside and encourage them to count while playing – count turns at the basketball hoop – play hopscotch – draw numbers with chalk – jump rope
- Start the day with gratitude – Have your child identify something new they are grateful for each day
- Practice GRACE with yourself and your child: Give: Respect, Admiration, Courtesy, and Empathy
10 Hacks for School
- Inquire with the school as early as possible about IEPs and 504s to determine the best path for your child
- Play to your child’s strengths – let others know where they shine
- Plan to meet with your child’s teacher prior to school enrollment to open the door to collaboration
- Provide your child a calculator for daily use
- Encourage your child to ask for help if they feel lost or confused
- Teach them to use Kahn Academy and YouTube for homework help
- Do not bombard them with to do’s right after school – allow them recovery time
- Set aside time M-F to assist them with schoolwork or provide them a tutor
- Find accommodations that work for your child and use them
- Teach them to perform a simple act of service daily at school – holding the door for a friend, helping their teacher, etc.