How to cure anxiety over mathematics

by Marianna

My daughter is a very good student in most subjects, but is very poor at mathematics. I feel I have actually made her so conscious about her maths that she develops a kind of anxiety at the thought of it and her mind goes blank. Even simple calculations like single digit additions she forgets.
She is now 12 and has had this fear right from age 4. Please help me to help her overcome this problem.
Her basic problem is she loses all her confience on the subject and becomes so confused. She keeps asking should I add,subtract,multiply or divide. She is so clear when I teach her at that moment and answers almost correctly but when the same is asked the next day she is confused and smashes out.
How can I help her come out of the anxiety for the subject?

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How to cure anxiety over mathematics

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Possible Dyscalculia
by: Pauline

Maths is a real fear for many people and Lazy 8's work well to relax and focus the student. They also integrate and consolidate learning. Draw them for one minute on paper or whiteboard before any maths activity and after any new concept has been taught.
Find out how to do lazy 8's here at:
www.happinesspages.com/brain-gym-exercises.html

However, from what you have told me, it seems likely that your daughter has dyscalculia.
Though it may seem that she has lost confidence, or that you have made her self-conscious and fearful, I believe that considering her age and the following:

1. she is a good student in all other subjects
2. her level of difficulty (single digit operations)
3. the long history (since age 4)
4. the inconsistent performance (forgetting the next day)

Dyscalculia is highly likely. Dyscalulia is similar to dyslexia but related to number oncepts and maths.

Maths is based on abstract concepts and symbols. Difficulties are so varied and can occur at any level. Initial assessment should be based on finding her strength and weaknesses. You will need also to discover strategies that work for her and support materials which may include access to number lines, mnemonic strategies, mental imaging/visualisation, using a whiteboard. She may perform better with written numbers than verbally.

Thanks for sharing.
Pauline

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Submitted by: Pauline

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Maths is a real fear for many people and Lazy 8's work well to relax and focus the student. They also integrate and consolidate learning. Draw them for one minute on paper or whiteboard before any maths activity and after any new concept has been taught. Find out how to do lazy 8's here at: www.happinesspages.com/brain-gym-exercises.html However, from what you have told me, it seems likely that your daughter has dyscalculia. Though it may seem that she has lost confidence, or that you have made her self-conscious and fearful, I believe that considering her age and the following: 1. she is a good student in all other subjects 2. her level of difficulty (single digit operations) 3. the long history (since age 4) 4. the inconsistent performance (forgetting the next day) Dyscalculia is highly likely. Dyscalulia is similar to dyslexia but related to number oncepts and maths. Maths is based on abstract concepts and symbols. Difficulties are so varied and can occur at any level. Initial assessment should be based on finding her strength and weaknesses. You will need also to discover strategies that work for her and support materials which may include access to number lines, mnemonic strategies, mental imaging/visualisation, using a whiteboard. She may perform better with written numbers than verbally. Thanks for sharing. Pauline

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