How Does Math Anxiety Start in Kids?

How to Spot Learning Disorders Like Dyslexia and Math Anxiety

Every child learns in their own way but some struggle more than others with reading and math. If your child seems to have difficulty in school despite their best efforts, they may possibly have a learning disorder. These challenges are common and with support, children can thrive socially and academically.

Learning disorders affect how the brain processes information, making it harder to focus, read, write or do math problems.  According to the U.S. Department of Education’s Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, there’s no cure for learning disabilities. Early intervention and ongoing professional support can make a big  difference in school. 

Learning disabilities aren’t a sign of intelligence; they’re neurological brain conditions. A combination of medical and educational assessments can help diagnose teens and younger children with learning issues. 

Risk factors for learning disabilities  

• Family history
• Exposure to alcohol or drugs before birth
• Premature birth or very low birth weight  
• Emotional trauma
• Physical trauma or abuse 
• Exposure to toxins like lead

Common signs of learning disorders in students

Many children struggle in school at times. When difficulties persist over weeks or months, it might be a sign of a learning issue. Early warning signs of possible learning disorders include:

• Math frustration. Difficulty recognizing numbers and confusing calculations 
• Reading struggles. Switching letters, slow reading, trouble with reading comprehension. 
• Writing troubles. Messy writing, poor spelling, trouble organizing thoughts.
• Memory issues. Forgetting instructions, struggling to recall facts or taking longer to learn new things.
• Avoidance behaviors. Making excuses to skip homework, getting upset about school and losing confidence.

If you notice these signs, talk to your child’s teacher or a learning specialist. Early intervention can help your student gain skills and confidence now to prepare for later. 

Learning differences can affect grades, conduct and confidence 

While dyslexia is probably the most common or well-known learning disorder in children, there are others. Unfortunately, learning differences can impact schoolwork, self-esteem, testing scores, day-to-day conduct and emotions. 

• Dyscalculia (math anxiety). Trouble understanding numbers and solving problems.
• Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. Lacking focus and impulse control. 
• Dyslexia. Difficulty with reading and spelling.
• Dysgraphia. Difficulty with organizing, writing and spelling.
• Auditory processing disorder. Trouble understanding spoken language.
• Visual processing disorder. Difficulty interpreting visual information like shapes.

Math anxiety: when numbers are stressful and confusing  

Math anxiety, sometimes called dyscalculia, is a learning difficulty that makes it hard to understand numbers and solve math problems. Kids with math anxiety often feel frustrated, anxious or fearful when faced with math tasks.

Academic impact of dyscalculia 

• Trouble recognizing patterns or number sequences 
• Struggling with basic math facts (addition and multiplication)
• Difficulty understanding word problems
• Getting confused when counting or organizing numbers
• Avoiding math assignments or tests  

Math anxiety is not just about ability — it’s often linked to stress and self-doubt. With patient teaching, hands-on learning and more homework practice, you can help children build confidence in math.

Schools often provide free assessments through special education services. Private testing is also an option through psychologists or learning specialists. 

If your child struggles in reading or math, an educational evaluation can help identify specific learning challenges. If you’re concerned about your child’s learning, consider an evaluation and resources such as tutoring or special education programs.  

Contact us 

Admissions staff at LifeWorks Schools in Pennsylvania are available Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. to schedule a local tour or intake. For questions about programming, call 215-489-3028 or complete the online contact form.