How to Build Number Sense in Kids with Dyscalculia

What Is Number Sense and Why Does It Matter?

Number sense is a child’s intuitive grasp of how numbers work – how they relate, break apart, and build up. It underpins almost every other math skill, including estimation, arithmetic, and problem-solving.

According to Gersten & Chard (1999), number sense includes the ability to:

• Understand numerical magnitude
• Decompose and recompose numbers flexibly
• Use benchmarks like 5 or 10
• Apply numbers to real-world situations

Researchers agree that strong number sense in early childhood predicts later math achievement (Jordan et al., 2009). But kids with developmental dyscalculia often miss this early foundation entirely.

Why Kids with Dyscalculia Struggle with Number Sense

Dyscalculia is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects 3 to 7% of the population (Shalev & Gross-Tsur, 2001). It’s not just about poor memory for math facts – it's about a breakdown in the brain’s ability to perceive and manipulate quantities.

Studies show that children with dyscalculia often:

• Struggle with subitizing (instantly recognizing small quantities)
• Have difficulty placing numbers on a mental number line
• Fail to grasp basic part-whole relationships even after instruction

In other words, their brains don't naturally build the internal number map that most kids use to make sense of math.

Myth Busting: Why Drills and Flashcards Don’t Work

Traditional approaches to early math – like worksheets, flashcards, and timed quizzes – often harm more than help.

Jo Boaler (Stanford University) notes that timed math tests increase anxiety and reduce flexibility in problem-solving. And in students with dyscalculia, these tools are especially ineffective, as they bypass conceptual understanding.

Research instead recommends:

• Visual supports (ten frames, number lines)
• Hands-on manipulatives
• Strategy instruction over rote memorization

1. Build Visual Models of Quantity and Structure

Start by grounding number sense in visuals. Studies show that students with dyscalculia benefit from structured visual supports more than peers (Fuchs et al., 2015).

• Dot cards and subitizing exercises (Clements, 1999)
• Ten frames and rekenreks to show combinations of 10
• Number lines to physically map numerical magnitude

Instead of asking “What’s 7 + 3?” ask “Can you show me 7 and 3 on a ten frame?” Then explore how the parts fit together.

2. Use Stories to Anchor Math Concepts

According to research by Siegler and Ramani (2009), contextual learning helps kids map symbolic numbers to real-world quantities.

Rather than abstract word problems, try:

• Story-based math with familiar names and objects
• Open-ended prompts: “What are all the ways two kids could share 8 blocks?”
• Using toys or drawings to physically act out scenarios

Narrative learning helps form semantic memory pathways – crucial for kids with working memory deficits (Hazel P., 2008).

3. Emphasize Strategies, Not Just Answers

Teaching flexible number strategies – like “making 10” or “doubles +1” – builds robust number sense (Baroody et al., 2004). But kids with dyscalculia aren’t likely to discover these on their own.

Instead of asking:

What’s 6 + 7?

Ask:

If you know 6 + 6, can that help with 6 + 7?

This kind of relational reasoning improves math fluency even in students with learning disabilities (Fuchs et al., 2009).

4. Add Movement to Boost Retention

Dyscalculic learners often benefit from embodied cognition – linking movement with learning.

• Floor number paths where kids jump from 3 to 7
• Skip counting while tossing bean bags
• Math yoga (pose for “8” or “even number”)

5. Repeat with Variation, Not Drill

Repetition is important – but it must be varied and meaningful.

The Concrete-Representational-Abstract (CRA) approach is highly recommended for students with learning disabilities (Miller & Mercer, 1993):

1. Concrete: Use real objects or manipulatives
2. Representational: Use pictures or drawn models
3. Abstract: Use symbols (like “4 + 3”)

Use math in:

• Games (like Monster Math, where strategies come alive)
• Cooking (“How many scoops?”)
• Music (“Clap 4 times, then 3 more – how many?”)

6. Build Confidence Through Strengths

Perhaps most importantly – kids with dyscalculia need to experience math as something they can succeed at.

Recommendations from Dr. Daniel Ansari (numerical cognition expert):

• Focus on growth, not speed
• Encourage explanations, not just answers
• Provide scaffolded success (tasks within reach, with help)

When kids believe math is for them, their brains become more receptive to learning it.

FAQs

Is dyscalculia permanent?
Yes, but its impact can be greatly reduced. With appropriate, research-based instruction, kids can become capable and confident in math.

Is it okay to use a calculator or app?
Absolutely. Tools like Monster Math can scaffold strategies and build confidence – especially when combined with hands-on learning.

Can my child “catch up” in math?
Yes. It might take longer and look different, but many dyscalculic learners thrive when supported properly.