Dr Hester Howells is an Educational
Psychologist based in Norfolk.
Dr Howells offers independent assessments diagnosing the educational aspects
of Neuro-diversity (specific learning difficulties)
for both children and adults.
The assessment typically assesses one or more areas:
cognition and learning, communication and interaction,social, emotional and mental health
or sensory and physical skills. Individualised
evidence-based recommendations are made for needs identified in any of these areas.
For more information
give us a call on 01362 681 869.

One definition (Department for Education and Science 2001) is:

“Dyscalculia is a condition that affects the ability to acquire arithmetical skills. Dyscalculic learners may have difficulty understanding simple number concepts, lack an intuitive grasp of numbers and have problems learning number facts and procedures. Even if they produce a correct answer or use a correct method, they may do so mechanically and without confidence”.

If you would like to discuss a full diagnostic assessment for Dyscalculia please contact us.

Fast facts about Dyscalculia

  • Dyscalculia affects between 3% and 6% of the population. The incidence varies according to definitions used
  • Many people with dyscalculia are very anxious about maths and this compounds their difficulties
  • Numeracy often fails to develop in spite of good teaching
  • Dyscalculia frequently co-exists with dyslexia and dyspraxia and there is almost always a need for specialist assessment and targeted teaching for individuals who show dyscalculic tendencies
  • The causes are unknown, but may involve a genetically linked lack of innate number sense
  • Teaching must be in very small, gently progressive steps
  • There needs to be repetition of foundation elements of number work, and explicit teaching of rules, using multi-sensory methods and practical activities
  • Psychology4education offers standardised testing in written arithmetic, mental arithmetic and mathematical reasoning. These results will help to define whether or not an individual is dyscalculic, the extent of the challenge and starting points for teaching
  • There is more useful information at www.dyscalculia-maths-difficulties.org.uk
01362 681 869