When Numbers Feel Heavy: A Mom’s Journey with Dyscalculia and Math Anxiety

Math class used to feel like a battlefield for my son. Each page of sums seemed like an insurmountable wall, and every mistake became a storm of frustration. Tears, head-shaking, and the dreaded phrase, “I just can’t do this!” became our regular companions. I watched helplessly, feeling the weight of his struggle.

But as both a parent and a child counsellor, I knew something needed to change—not just for him but for how we approached learning. 

When Math Became Play 

One evening, instead of forcing another worksheet, I grabbed a bunch of his favourite toy cars. “Let’s line them up,” I said casually. “How many do we have?” His face lit up—not with joy, but curiosity.

We started adding and subtracting cars, imagining them zooming off to a race or being towed to the garage. Suddenly, math wasn’t about getting the “right answer.” It was about play.

Then came colouring sessions with numbers. I gave him sums where the answers revealed a secret pattern or picture. He wasn’t solving equations; he was creating art. 

We clapped to rhythms as we added numbers aloud, turning addition into a mini dance party. By using movement, creativity, and storytelling, math became less intimidating. Slowly, the fear started to dissolve. 

What I Learned from My Son 

Working through his math anxiety taught me a powerful lesson: kids need more than encouragement when numbers feel heavy—they need new tools. For some, like my son, it’s about shifting focus from performance to exploration. 

Not every child learns the same way. Some children may have dyscalculia, a learning difference that makes understanding numbers and math concepts particularly challenging. For these kids, traditional methods may only deepen the anxiety. 

Turning Fear into Curiosity 

Here’s what worked for us: 

Hands-on Activities: Counting snacks, lining up crayons, or measuring ingredients while cooking turned abstract concepts into something tangible. Movement and Sound: Clapping to sums, hopping to numbers on the floor, or even dancing helped connect numbers with physical activity. Creativity and Art: Using paints and crayons to explore numbers made math less about answers and more about discovery. 

What mattered most wasn’t how fast he learned but that he felt safe to explore without judgment. 

A Word to Parents 

If your child struggles with math, you’re not alone. Dyscalculia and math anxiety are natural, and they don’t define your child’s potential. Sometimes, all it takes is stepping into their world—playing, moving, creating—to help them see that numbers aren’t enemies but tools they can conquer at their own pace. 

And remember, progress is progress, no matter how small. Every smile, every tiny “aha!” moment, is a step forward. 

Have you faced similar challenges with your child? How do you make learning feel less overwhelming? Let’s share ideas—I’d love to hear what’s worked for you.

Let’s Connect

If you’re looking for personalized support to navigate your child’s learning journey, I’m here to help. Let’s work together—book a 1:1 consultation with me here.

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Recommended Products for Overcoming Dyscalculia and Math Anxiety: Math Activity Books : Workbooks designed for children with math difficulties often include puzzles, games, and exercises to build confidence. Math Manipulative Kits : These include counters, base ten blocks, and fraction circles, which are excellent for visualizing abstract math concepts. Montessori-Inspired Toys : Tools like bead boards and number rods help children understand basic arithmetic operations tactilely. Interactive STEM Toys : AR-powered toys like PlayShifu Plugo Count offer a fun way to practice math through engaging, story-based challenges.