Do I have Dyscalculia or Math Anxiety? A guide for concerned parents

Understanding the Difference Between Dyscalculia and Math Anxiety 

If your child is struggling with math, you're not alone—and you're also asking the right questions. Many parents wonder whether their child has a learning difference like dyscalculia, or if it's something more emotional, like math anxiety. Although they can look similar on the surface, they are very different issues that require different types of support. Let's break it down.

What Is Dyscalculia?

Dyscalculia is a specific learning difficulty that affects a person’s ability to understand numbers and mathematical concepts. It’s sometimes referred to as “math dyslexia,” though that’s a bit of a simplification. According to the British Dyslexia Association, dyscalculia affects up to 6% of the population and is recognized as a neurological condition.

Common Signs of Dyscalculia

• Difficulty recognizing numbers and symbols

• Trouble learning and recalling basic math facts

• Struggling with sequencing and patterns

• Poor sense of time, direction, and estimation

• Difficulty with mental math and problem-solving

Children with dyscalculia may avoid math entirely, not because they fear it, but because they genuinely can’t process it in the same way as their peers.

What Is Math Anxiety?

Math anxiety, on the other hand, is an emotional response. It’s the fear, tension, or worry that arises when someone has to deal with math. This anxiety can be so intense that it actually disrupts performance, even in children who understand the material.

Common Signs of Math Anxiety

• Panic or stress when faced with math tasks

• Physical symptoms like headaches or stomachaches during math class

• Avoidance of math homework or class participation

• Saying things like “I’m just not a math person”

• Performing well in other subjects but not in math

Math anxiety can affect children who are otherwise capable learners. It's often caused by negative experiences, pressure to perform, or witnessing adults express anxiety about math.

How Can You Tell the Difference?

Here are a few helpful distinctions:

• Dyscalculia is consistent: Struggles with math show up repeatedly, even with extra support.

• Math anxiety may fluctuate: A child might do better when relaxed or outside a test situation.

• Dyscalculia affects core number sense: A child with dyscalculia may have difficulty recognizing quantities or doing basic arithmetic.

• Math anxiety is performance-based: A child might understand the material but freeze under pressure.

In some cases, children can have both—so it's important to approach with curiosity and care

What Should Parents Do?

Talk to Your Child’s Teacher

Teachers can give insight into patterns they've observed and whether your child’s struggles are consistent or vary by situation.

Request a Formal Assessment

If you suspect dyscalculia, speak to your school’s special education team or a psychologist who can conduct a formal evaluation. Early identification is key.

Create a Low-Stress Math Environment at Home

Whether it’s anxiety or a learning difference, your child will benefit from a calm, supportive environment. Avoid pressure, celebrate small wins, and let your child know it’s okay to find math hard.

Use Tools Designed for Support

There are evidence-based math apps and resources that help children learn at their own pace. The right tool can reduce anxiety and provide structured practice tailored to their needs

Why We Built 'Count on Me'

At Akribian, we created Count on Me to help children build confidence and skill in math—whether they’re dealing with anxiety, dyscalculia, or simply need extra support. Our app is based on research and designed to make learning feel safe, fun, and rewarding. Read more about Count on me

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If your child is struggling with math, remember: it's not about being "bad at math." It's about finding the right support and building confidence step by step.