Child Struggling To Count Backwards? Signs Of Dyscalculia Explained

Dyscalculia – sometimes referred to as “number dyslexia” – is a difficulty in understanding and working with numbers.

It’s thought around one in 20 children struggle with the learning difficulty, which is also a form of neurodivergence.

People with dyscalculia will typically process and understand numbers and mathematical concepts differently to neurotypical people.

One of the signs of this learning difference, according to Evolve Psychology, is difficulty counting backwards.

• Mixing up numbers like 6 and 9
• Still using finger counting in Year 4 despite extra help
• Difficulty understanding what numbers mean beyond memorisation
• Struggling to line up numbers correctly in maths problems
• Challenges learning and recalling basic number facts, like times tables or simple addition
• Problems telling the time, handling money and following multi-stage calculations
• Difficulties estimating quantities and measurements
• Showing anxiety around maths and avoiding number-based tasks
• Being unexpectedly behind in maths compared to other subjects.

Clinical psychologist Dr Elyse Bensusan, who partnered with Explore Learning, suggested the learning difference can show up in ways that are “easy to dismiss” at first.

For example, a young child might have trouble recognising small quantities without counting – for example, they can’t ‘see’ that there are three cookies on a plate unless they count one by one.

“They may struggle to understand what numbers actually mean: not just memorising that 2+2=4, but really grasping that numbers represent amounts,” she added.

Unfortunately, research suggests most teachers receive little or no training in dyscalculia – as a result, kids can often struggle in silence, with little support.

One study, led by Loughborough University, surveyed 1,323 education professionals across the UK, Italy, Vietnam and South Africa and found widespread gaps in training and understanding of dyscalculia.

Although most UK educators had heard of dyscalculia, only 42% said they clearly understood it.

Previous studies have found that because maths is a core subject and a gateway to many science, technology and engineering pathways, without appropriate support dyscalculia can limit further study and career prospects.

Kids with dyscalculia are also at increased risk of anxiety, depression, behaviour problems and low self-esteem.

Cherrida Crew, team lead for Specific Learning Difficulties at Evolve, said addressing dyscalculia is “vital” as early recognition leads to swifter intervention and more positive outcomes. “The right support can make a real difference,” she added.

If you suspect your child might have it, Evolve’s team advises:

• Using visual and hands-on learning tools, such as counters, number lines or diagrams to make maths concepts easier to understand.
• Breaking tasks down into smaller steps.
• Reducing memory pressure by keeping multiplication grids, formulas and reference materials easily accessible.
• Linking maths to real-life situations in a more hands-on way.
• Using technology and practical tools in everyday life, such as calculators, contactless payments, smartphone reminders and visual planners.
• Requesting appropriate support in education, including extra time, calculators or note-taking assistance where needed.
• Supporting them to work in quiet, low-distraction environments to improve concentration and reduce cognitive overload during maths-based tasks.

Dr Bensusan noted: “If your child is bright and verbal but seems lost when it comes to numbers – trust your gut. A full neuropsychological evaluation can make all the difference.

“I’ve seen children go from melting down over math homework to feeling proud of solving problems on their own – just by getting the right diagnosis and support. Dyscalculia is real. And with the right approach, your child can thrive.”