“The only way to learn mathematics is to do mathematics.” – Paul R. Halmos.

Transform Math Learning: Fun Games for Kids with Dyscalculia

Hello, homeschooling heroes!

 First, congratulations on taking the road less traveled in your educational choice for your child. This path always requires dedication, patience, and creativity, but even more so if your child has any learning differences. 

As a parent of a child with dyscalculia, you know the challenges and frustrations of learning math.

Homeschooling can also be lonely, especially if you face additional obstacles in finding the perfect educational solutions for your atypical learner. You don’t have to face this journey alone.

Today, I’m sharing something that might make it a bit easier and much more fun for you and your child: math games.

 Why Math Games?

1. Games Make Learning Fun and Engaging

Often, students with dyscalculia have reached the height of discouragement in math. When math is mentioned, the feeling of dread hinders their learning because traditional methods and explanations don’t reach them.

They need a new approach, and games can be the answer. When math is presented as a game, it becomes less intimidating.

Imagine your child eagerly looking forward to math time because it’s associated with fun and play!

2. Games Reinforce Learning Through Repetition

Mastering math concepts requires repetition, which gameplay naturally provides.

Where repeating a skill or drill in an academic setting can seem boring or monotonous, students will enthusiastically engage in games where they repeatedly practice addition, subtraction, multiplication, and other math skills in a playful context, solidifying their understanding without the dread of drills.

3. Games Build Confidence

If your student struggles with dyscalculia, they may feel defeated by their math studies.

Having the opportunity to win a game that involves math can be a huge confidence booster.

Due to their difficulties with math, self-esteem struggles are common for children with dyscalculia.

Giving them a chance to experience small victories while playing math games can build confidence and shouldn’t be overlooked as an opportunity.

4. Games Encourage Family Bonding

In addition to offering a learning opportunity, math games played with your child can offer amazing quality family time.

Rather than having math time be a source of frustration, you can turn it into a time to work and play together.

Playing games together changes the learning environment and relational dynamic, making it more collaborative, leading to a positive learning experience, and strengthening your bond with your child.

5. Games Adapt to Different Learning Styles

Every child learns differently, and students with dyscalculia benefit from hands-on multi-sensory methods.

Math games can be easily adapted to suit various learning styles and offer a multi-sensory experience. No matter which style best suits your child, there’s a math game out there that can meet their needs.

 Try My 7 Math Game Ideas

To help you get started, I’ve curated a unique guide featuring seven math game ideas perfect for families to play together. These games are designed to be simple, fun, and effective in helping children with dyscalculia develop their math skills. You can download this guide for free on my website!

What’s Inside the Guide?

- Game Rules/Set-Up: Easy-to-understand instructions for each game are included.

- Materials Needed: Most games require materials you probably already have at home.

- Benefits to Dyscalculic Students: Detailed descriptions of the benefits of each game are included to help parents select games their student may benefit from most.

- Game variations/Adaptations: Practical advice is included on how to adapt the games to fit your child’s unique needs.

How do you Get Your Free Guide?

Ready to transform your math time into game time? Complete the form below to download your free guide, "Seven Free Engaging Math Games to Help Your Student with Dyscalculia.”

With the right tools and creativity, your child’s learning journey doesn’t have to be a struggle. Adding games to your homeschooling plan can make math more enjoyable for you and your students. Join me in making math fun, one game at a time. 

Happy gaming and learning!

Warm regards,

 Jan Schulte

www.dyscalculiamathtutor.com