Does Dyslexia Affect Math? When to Get Help

If your child has a hard time with reading, spelling, or writing, you might already know a thing or two about dyslexia. But what if they also struggle with math? Do the same challenges carry over into numbers and equations? It’s a question we get all the time at Total Tutors, and it’s an important one. Does dyslexia affect math? Short answer: Yes, it can. Let’s break down how, why, and when it’s time to get help.

How Dyslexia Shows Up in Math Class

You probably already know that dyslexia is a learning disability that impacts language skills. But the brain functions that affect reading can also influence how kids approach math. That’s where things get tricky.

Reading Word Problems Is Tough

Word problems combine two major skills: reading and math. For a student with dyslexia, reading the question alone can be exhausting. Even if they know how to do the math part, the wording might confuse them. They might misread instructions or skip over key info.

Trouble Memorizing Math Facts

A lot of students with dyslexia struggle with rote memorization. That means times tables, formulas, and math rules don’t always stick. Recalling basic facts quickly can feel impossible, especially when under pressure.

Number Reversals and Directional Confusion

If your child flips b and d while reading, they might also reverse 6 and 9, or write 21 instead of 12. This confusion can throw off everything from solving equations to lining up columns in long division.

Poor Working Memory

Dyslexia can affect working memory, making it hard to hold steps in your head. If a student can’t remember where they are in a multi-step problem, even the right strategy won't help them solve it.

Slow Processing Speed

Students with dyslexia may understand a math concept just fine, but take longer to process the question. They might fall behind on timed quizzes or feel overwhelmed by fast-paced lessons.

Does Dyslexia Affect Math Learning Long-Term?

Yes, dyslexia can affect your ability to learn math in the long run, especially without the right support. But here’s the good news: knowing what’s going on is the first step to helping your child succeed. Sometimes, a student struggles so much with numbers that it raises the question: Is it dyslexia for math, or something else entirely? This is where dyscalculia comes in.

What Is Dyslexia With Numbers?

If your child is great at reading but still can’t grasp numbers, you might be looking at dyscalculia. It’s sometimes called “number dyslexia,” though it’s a totally different learning disorder from dyslexia.

What Is Dyslexia But With Numbers?

It’s not an official term, but when people say “dyslexia but with numbers,” they usually mean dyscalculia. Children with dyscalculia struggle with understanding number sense, estimating quantities, and following steps in a process.

Can You Be Dyslexic With Numbers?

Yes. Even though dyslexia is mainly about reading, many kids who have it also show signs of dyscalculia. That’s why we often talk about dyslexia and dyscalculia together.

Dyscalculia Symptoms to Watch For:

• Trouble learning to count

• Struggling to tell which number is bigger

• Avoiding math homework at all costs

• Getting frustrated during timed math tasks

• Always needing fingers to count

How To Know If It's Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, or Something Else

If you're wondering, "Why am I bad at math?" or asking that on behalf of your child, it might be time to get some answers.

Try a Dyscalculia Test

There isn’t just one perfect test for dyscalculia, but psychologists, educational therapists, and qualified tutors can help evaluate math learning struggles. A dyscalculia test will usually look at number sense, problem-solving, memory, and how a student performs in math compared to reading.

ADHD and Math Learning Disabilities

Sometimes, it’s not dyslexia or dyscalculia that’s causing the math struggles. It could be ADHD, or a combo of ADHD and a math learning disorder. Kids with ADHD might rush, make careless mistakes, or have trouble sticking with a multi-step problem to the end. The overlap can be confusing, so getting a professional opinion matters.

What To Do If You Suspect a Problem

Talk to Your Child’s Teacher

Let them know what you're noticing at home. Ask if your child is struggling to keep up, or if they need extra time or support.

Get a Formal Evaluation

A psychoeducational assessment can help pinpoint the exact issue, whether it’s dyslexia, dyscalculia, ADHD, or a combination.

Try Dyscalculia Treatment Strategies

While there’s no quick dyscalculia cure, there are tons of ways to help students build confidence with numbers. Some ideas include:

• Using visuals like blocks, graphs, and color-coded notes

• Practicing math facts through games, not flashcards

• Breaking down steps into simple, clear chunks

• Giving extra time for tests or using oral assessments

These aren’t one-size-fits-all, but they’re a great starting point.

Consider Working With a Tutor

A trained tutor who understands learning differences can make a huge difference. If you're located in California, consider contacting a tutor in Orange County from Total Tutors who specializes in supporting children with both dyslexia and math challenges.

Create a Supportive Home Environment 

A big part of helping your child succeed with math is making sure they feel supported at home. Be patient and positive when helping with homework. Praise their effort instead of just the outcome, and let them know it’s okay to make mistakes. That mindset shift can reduce anxiety and build confidence.

Try to build math into everyday life. Cook together and talk about measurements, play games that involve numbers, or ask them to help with budgeting or planning. When math becomes part of real life, it stops being such a scary subject.

Use the Right Tools

There are so many tools out there now designed for kids with learning differences. From graph paper that helps with number alignment to apps that read word problems aloud, technology can level the playing field. Don’t hesitate to try different strategies until you find one that clicks.

Watch for Emotional Red Flags

Math frustration can lead to a lot more than just low grades. Kids might start saying they “hate school” or “aren’t smart.” If your child’s self-esteem is taking a hit, that’s a clear sign it’s time to intervene. Emotional well-being is just as important as academic success.

Can You Get Dyslexia Later in Life? 

This is a question we hear often. Technically, dyslexia is a neurodevelopmental condition, which means it starts in childhood, even if it’s not diagnosed until later. So while you can’t develop dyslexia as an adult, you can notice signs of it later in life when academic or work challenges increase.

If you’re an adult who’s always struggled with reading, writing, or math, and it’s affecting your confidence or performance, getting tested could still help. Understanding how your brain works is always empowering, no matter your age.

Advocate for Your Child in School 

One of the most powerful things you can do is speak up for your child. Ask the school about accommodations, like extra time, using a calculator, or having someone read the questions out loud. Get involved in creating an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan if one doesn’t already exist. You are your child’s biggest advocate, and your voice matters.

Reinforce Success Outside the Classroom 

School isn’t the only place your child can feel successful. Encourage them in activities where they shine, whether it’s sports, music, building things, or art. Boosting their confidence in other areas of life can help balance the frustration they might feel in math class.

Stay Consistent and Encouraging

Kids with learning challenges often need repetition, predictability, and encouragement. Stick with routines, be patient through the ups and downs, and celebrate small wins along the way. Every step forward, no matter how small, is progress.

Find a Community 

Sometimes, just knowing you’re not alone makes a big difference. Find support groups, online forums, or local parent meetups where you can share your experiences and get advice. Connecting with other families who understand what you’re going through can be incredibly validating.

Final Thoughts on Dyslexia and Math

Dyslexia isn’t just a difficulty with math, but it certainly can be. It may manifest as trouble reading word problems, slow processing, poor memory, or difficulty with reversing numbers. For some children, those math struggles are a symptom of dyslexia. For others, it’s dyscalculia or even ADHD causing the confusion.

If your child’s having a hard time, don’t wait. There are real, practical steps you can take to help them get back on track. And with the right support, they can totally thrive.

Still unsure what’s going on? That’s what we’re here for. Total Tutors is all about helping every student feel confident in the classroom, even when math feels impossible. Let’s make it easier, together. Contact us today.