Learn With Numbers
A Structured, Research-Informed Approach to Daily Learning Through Tools and Activities That Promote Lasting Number Confidence for Those Affected by Dyslexia and Dyscalculia – by JDL Creative
A Structured, Research-Informed Approach to Daily Learning Through Tools and Activities That Promote Lasting Number Confidence for Those Affected by Dyslexia and Dyscalculia – by JDL Creative
This site is here to help people with dyslexia or dyscalculia build confidence with numbers. It includes:
🚀 Ready to improve your number confidence?
Try interactive games designed to support your number confidence.
Learning maths when you have dyslexia or dyscalculia can feel like climbing a wall without a rope — but the right strategies can build the ladder you need. Everyone learns differently, and the key is finding the approach that fits your brain best.
These methods are used in UK support classrooms, tutoring sessions, and home learning environments. They're based on cognitive research that shows how multisensory learning, visual supports, and real-world application can unlock mathematical understanding — even when traditional teaching has failed.
Don't feel pressured to master everything at once. Start with one or two techniques that sound helpful. As confidence grows, new methods can be added and explored. This section is your toolkit — and every tool was designed to work with learning differences, not against them.
Below are proven ideas that have helped learners of all ages re-engage with numbers, reduce anxiety, and improve day-to-day numeracy. Some of these may seem simple — but simplicity is often what makes them powerful.
Case Study 1: Emma, Age 19
Emma struggled with number sequences and basic addition. Using visual dot cards and chunking, she was able to break numbers down and recognise patterns. After 3 months of consistent practice with base-10 blocks and rhymes, Emma's accuracy improved by 40%, and her anxiety around maths reduced significantly, according to her tutor.
Case Study 2: Liam, Adult Learner
Diagnosed with dyscalculia in adulthood, Liam found traditional teaching overwhelming. Incorporating hands-on learning with coins and teaching concepts aloud helped Liam internalise concepts. Using timers to pace himself reduced frustration, and colour-coded notes helped him organise complex calculations. His confidence soared, allowing him to manage personal finances independently.
Case Study 3: Sarah, Secondary School
Sarah was anxious about maths tests and often mixed up place values. Her support teacher introduced grid paper and colour-coding techniques. Over a school year, Sarah's test scores rose steadily, and she reported less stress during exams. The ability to “teach back” concepts to classmates reinforced her understanding and boosted her self-esteem.
Case Study 4: Jamie, Primary School
Jamie's parents and teachers worked with him to use pattern recognition strategies and chunking for times tables. Multisensory approaches including movement and songs were incorporated. Jamie became more engaged in class and improved his speed in recall, making homework less stressful.
Keeping your number skills sharp is key to building confidence and independence, especially for people with dyslexia and dyscalculia. Regular practice with engaging and supportive apps helps improve focus, memory, and understanding of math concepts.
Whether you're a child just starting out or an adult seeking to strengthen your skills, the right tools can make all the difference. Below are trusted free apps and resources designed to support diverse learning styles, improve fluency, and provide motivation without any cost.
Using apps consistently helps build routine and makes learning interactive and enjoyable. It also allows learners to practice at their own pace, with instant feedback and adaptive challenges tailored to their level.
A comprehensive, free educational app perfect for children ages 2-7. It offers playful math games and lessons, fostering early numeracy skills with gentle encouragement and rich visuals.
Platform: iOS, Android, Web
Cost: Free
Visit SiteBased on the popular TV show, this free app uses bright characters and engaging stories to teach early number sense and counting strategies, ideal for younger learners.
Platform: iOS, Android
Cost: Free
Learn MoreA free website packed with hundreds of interactive math games, puzzles, and logic challenges suitable for children and teens. It supports critical thinking and problem-solving skills in a fun environment.
Platform: Web
Cost: Free
Visit SiteFree app that lets you take a picture of a math problem and provides step-by-step explanations. It’s excellent for learners who want to understand the process and improve problem-solving skills at any age.
Platform: iOS, Android
Cost: Free version with essential features
Visit SiteThis free tool helps solve math problems from arithmetic to calculus. It provides explanations, video tutorials, and similar practice questions—great for teens and adults working independently.
Platform: iOS, Android, Web
Cost: Free
Visit SiteA powerful computational engine providing answers and step-by-step solutions for a vast range of math problems. The free web version supports learners from secondary school up to adult education.
Platform: Web
Cost: Free tier available
Visit SiteAn open-source educational suite featuring a variety of activities, including math games and logic puzzles suitable for children and adults alike. Free on Linux and with a free trial on other platforms.
Platform: Linux, Windows, macOS, Android
Cost: Fully free on Linux; free trial elsewhere
Visit SiteA free, open-source interactive whiteboard software for teachers and learners. Great for adults who want to visualize math concepts through drawing, shapes, and notes during study sessions or tutoring.
Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux
Cost: Free and open-source
Visit SiteConfidence is often the bridge between trying and succeeding, especially for individuals facing challenges like dyslexia or dyscalculia. Developing a strong sense of self-belief can transform frustration into motivation, and hesitation into bold action.
Research shows that confidence not only improves performance but also reduces anxiety, making learning more enjoyable and effective. Here, we explore practical strategies and mindset shifts that help build and sustain confidence every day.
Break tasks into bite-sized steps. Celebrate every success, no matter how small. This builds momentum and a sense of accomplishment.
Replace harsh self-criticism with kindness. Understand that struggles don’t define your worth or potential.
Regularly remind yourself of your strengths and progress. Phrases like “I can improve with practice” can rewire negative thought patterns.
Embrace challenges as opportunities to learn, not proof of inability. Believe your abilities can grow through effort.
Connect with mentors, friends, or support groups. Sharing experiences fosters understanding and encouragement.
Keep a journal or log of your achievements and challenges overcome. Visual evidence of growth builds confidence over time.
Uses cognitive behavioral therapy techniques to help reduce anxiety and boost confidence. Ideal for managing stress related to learning challenges.
Visit SiteA practical guide on overcoming self-doubt using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), available as a free PDF online.
Download PDFCarol Dweck, psychologist behind the “growth mindset,” explains how belief in change sparks success.
Watch VideoIf you’re looking for help, support communities, or trusted advice, here are some valuable resources and answers to common questions. You’re not alone — support is here.
A leading charity offering information, support, and guidance for people with dyslexia and their families.
VisitAn active online community forum to discuss challenges, share tips, and get peer support for dyscalculia.
VisitFor co-occurring learning differences, this helpline offers advice and signposting to support services.
VisitFind professional assessment and support services near you to get tailored help for dyslexia or dyscalculia.
Find Specialists| Resource | Action |
|---|---|
| Understood.org – Resources for learning and attention issues | Visit |
| National Autistic Society – Guidance on learning differences | Visit |
| LD Online – Learning disabilities and strategies | Visit |
| International Dyslexia Association | Visit |
| National Center for Learning Disabilities | Visit |