Programs for Teaching Math to Kids With Dyslexia or Dyscalculia

by Marianne | Resources | 0 comments

For kids with dyslexia or dyscalculia who struggle to learn their math facts, structured, multi-sensory, and explicit math programs are the most effective. Here are some research-supported and widely recommended programs:

1. Multi-sensory and Structured Programs

These programs use visual, auditory, and kinesthetic methods to reinforce math facts.

TouchMath – Uses a tactile approach where kids touch and count dots on numbers.
Multi-sensory Math by Marilyn Zecher – Uses manipulatives, movement, and structured strategies to help struggling learners.
Making Math Real – A multi-sensory, structured program focused on conceptual understanding.
On Cloud Nine (Lindamood-Bell) – Uses imagery-based instruction to improve mental math and visualization.

2. Programs Specifically Designed for Dyscalculia

These programs target foundational number sense and fluency.

Dynamo Math – Assesses and remediates dyscalculia using step-by-step interventions.
Calcularis – Adaptive software that builds number sense and fluency.
The NumberSense Program (Ronit Bird) – Hands-on, structured methods for developing math intuition.

3. Fact Fluency and Mastery Programs

These are designed to help with math fact recall.

Reflex Math – Gamified adaptive practice that focuses on automaticity.
Times Tales – Uses mnemonic-based storytelling to teach multiplication facts.
Rocket Math – Incremental fact practice that builds fluency over time.
XtraMath – A simple, free program to improve fact recall.

math programs for kids with dyslexia and dyscalculia

4. Math Programs with Built-in Scaffolding

These programs provide explicit instruction and strategies to help struggling learners.

Singapore Math (CPA Approach: Concrete-Pictorial-Abstract) – Uses visual and hands-on learning before moving to abstract numbers.
RightStart Mathematics – A research-based, visual, and hands-on approach to math that reduces reliance on rote memorization.
Math U See – Uses color-coded manipulatives and videos for structured learning.
Jump Math – Breaks concepts into small, scaffolded steps for better understanding.