Took me forever to realize my child had dyscalculia, the math learning difference. I have prided myself with early-intervention and getting my kids help with their dyslexia early on. However, wasn’t till middle school, where I became aware of my daughter’s extreme struggles with math.
She was performing 3-grade levels behind when she entered public middle school. I knew all along this wasn’t her strong suit, however, she got by ok with decent grades and a few math homework meltdowns. She didn’t go without support, got math tutoring for a couple of years and afterschool assistance in private school. I was surprised when the first diagnostic in public school came back and she was 2-3 grade levels behind. Public school is required to teach common core math standards, which differs from the private school she attended.
Fortunately, a 7th-grade math teacher came into her life and rescued her. She worked with her after school weekly and helped her get caught up. At first my child resisted help after school, but I made sure she understood her test scores and where she was, which wasn’t at all where she wanted to be. After the first session, she understood how helpful it was and how lucky that a wonderful teacher offered to work with her one-on-one. By the end of the year, my child was named “Math Student of the Year” for 7th grade of 250 students, based on her progress and hard work. It was a team teacher decision, but I’m sure the teacher that worked with her was instrumental in this designation. What a confidence booster for a child who has a poor self-image as a math learner and hated math!
There are angels disguised as teachers all around us. I’m not sure how these folks come into our lives, there have been a few in our lives. I didn’t understand how these folks give of themselves beyond their job description, not excepting payment in return. However, I’m starting to see in my limited teaching practice, that how children and parents behave, makes a difference. Teach your child to be respectful, polite, and grateful. The math teacher commented on what a delight it was to work with my child because of her sure grit and good nature. She said it was a joy to work with her, that my child was the kind of student every teacher hopes for. At the same time, parents who are responsive, kind, and grateful get better results. Don’t waste the teachers’ time. Make the sessions a priority and notify the teacher in advance if your child will be absent. Common courtesies go a long way. Special, thoughtful gifts and hand-written thank you notes made by your child are appreciated. These are not bribes, but a way to fill your teacher’s cup.
To learn more about dyscalculia and other learning differences, check out Understood.org.