Pathologist Definition

Filed Under (Speech Therapy) by Admin on 12-01-2024

Before diving into the core of our discussion, it is essential to begin it by providing a clear ‘pathologist definition‘. A pathologist, at its most fundamental definition, is a medical specialist who examines tissues, checks the accuracy of lab tests, and interprets the results to diagnose health conditions and diseases. Pathologists are an integral part of the overall healthcare team, providing crucial information and aiding in diagnosis and treatment decisions.

There are different types of pathologists, each one specializing in a unique aspect of health or diseases. For instance, a surgical pathologist examines tissues removed during surgery, a forensic pathologist determines causes of death, and a molecular pathologist looks at diseases at a molecular level.

Anatomical pathology and clinical pathology are two broad divisions of the field. Anatomical pathology involves investigating the effects of diseases on the human body at a tissue, cell, and sometimes even at a molecular level. On the other hand, clinical pathology mainly revolves around the laboratory analysis of bodily fluids, such as blood and urine, and tissue samples for diagnosis and treatment.

To further diversify this domain, consider the context of speech therapy Brisbane. In Brisbane, as in many other regions, speech and language pathologists, also known as speech therapists, are key health care professionals. They are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of a range of communication disorders, such as speech sound disorders, language impairment, voice disorders, and swallowing difficulties.

These speech pathologies could be the result of many factors like neurological disorders, physical impairments such as cleft lip or palate, vocal cord damage, and even emotional or psychological issues. Speech pathologists hold a vital role, particularly in pediatric healthcare services, helping children overcome speech and language disorders at an early stage, ensuring their proper growth and development.

Various pathologists’ responsibilities underscore their importance in healthcare settings. For instance, a pathologist might often be the first to make a diagnosis because they’re employed in laboratories, studying samples sent by other practitioners. In some cases, pathologists even guide other health practitioners towards a precise diagnosis and suitable treatment options, such as suggesting medications or surgeries. They actively work with other healthcare providers to improve the health of patients and communities.

Regarding speech pathologists, they work in a wide variety of settings, including schools, hospitals, research facilities, and private practice. These professionals are responsible for assessing, diagnosing, treating, and helping to prevent speech, language, cognitive-communication, voice, swallowing, and fluency disorders. They play a significant role in providing individuals the ability to communicate effectively, thereby, improving their quality of life.

Pathologists, of all types, contribute immensely to the healthcare industry. While the work of some pathologists is relatively unseen by patients as they’re most often part of a collaborative healthcare team, their contributions are monumental. Others, such as speech pathologists, have a more hands-on approach and directly working with individuals. In all cases, the work they do forms a crucial part of achieving better health outcomes for patients.

In conclusion, a pathologist, whether they be a clinical pathologist, an anatomical pathologist, or a speech pathologist in Brisbane, is an essential medical specialist. They not only accurately diagnose diseases at various levels but also contribute to their prevention and treatment. Their role in healthcare cannot be overstated, and their dedication to improving patient health outcomes is of the utmost importance.

Craft Videos: Empowering Creativity &Amp; Inspiration In The Diy Age

Filed Under (Home Renovation Solutions) by Admin on 08-01-2024

With the advent of websites like YouTube, Pinterest, and Instagram, making art has become an engaging activity accessible to everyone. One particular form of art that is gaining considerable traction is craft videos. Craft videos can be broadly defined as video tutorials that teach viewers how to make a variety of craft projects. They span multiple genres – from paper crafts, textiles, and ceramics to more complex areas such as woodworking and home improvement.

One of the most exciting things about craft videos is how they’ve democratised the learning process. Earlier, to learn something new, especially in the realm of crafts, one needed to enroll in workshops or classes. However, now, high-quality video tutorials by expert crafters from around the world are just a few clicks away. It’s an evolutionary shift that has helped empower individuals, encouraging them to take the plunge into exploring their creativity.

Another crucial factor that has led to the surge in popularity of craft videos is the DIY (Do It Yourself) trend that has permeated across different areas, including home improvement. One excellent example of this is the growing trend among homeowners to build their own custom kitchens using kits such as flatpack kitchens Australia. Assembling your own kitchen may seem like a daunting task, but with the magic of online craft videos and resources, it can be an actualisation of your dream project.

Craft videos have also helped making teaching and learning a more immersive and interactive experience. Many crafters use live video platforms to host real-time craft sessions, which not only allows students to follow along but also gives them the opportunity to ask questions and seek clarifications. In essence, it mimics a classroom environment, but one that’s more comfortable and flexible.

Nevertheless, craft videos are not restricted to hands-on projects; they serve as a crucial source of inspiration too. A viewer may not necessarily want to recreate a craft but enjoy the video as a piece of visual art. The process of creating something beautiful can be therapeutic and a great stress-buster. Several people have likened watching craft videos to meditation, leading to a new genre – oddly satisfying.

However, as with extraordinary growth, the craft video genre has its fair share of challenges. One major challenge is the overwhelming volume of content, which may leave a viewer confused or perplexed. Moreover, while the convenience of learning at your own pace is a boon, it could also mean a lack of structured learning, making it hard for some to grasp the nuances of the craft.

The standardization of tutorial methods and the categorization of tutorials based on skill level may help mitigate these issues. Craft video creators could also add resources like tool lists, material sources, and printable instructions to help beginners navigate better.

In conclusion, the world of craft videos has opened up a new dimension of creative expression and learning. Whether it’s about watching a calming video of pottery-making or learning how to assemble your own flatpack kitchens Australia, the ease, accessibility, and vast choices make it an exciting space. Despite a few challenges, with better standardization and categorization, this digital craft world shows promise for more exciting growth, and we’re here for it.

An Inside Look At A Mjusic Store

Filed Under (Music) by Admin on 29-12-2023

Step inside a ‘mjusic store,’ and you are immediately met with a visual cacophony of hundreds of instruments, each with its special appeal. You can almost sense the history and spirit of many famed composers, and musicians who infused our world’s symphony with unparalleled vibrancy. A mjusic store is not just a market of musical equipment; it is a sanctuary where every beat and rhythm find its home.

The mjusic store, as we know today, has become a one-stop destination for everything ‘music.’ From selling instruments, sheet music, recording gear to offering lessons to budding musicians, mjusic stores have evolved as an all-inclusive hub for music-lovers and musicians.

When you browse through the instrument section, you can find a wide variety of everything from guitars, keyboards, and drums to traditional instruments from across the globe. You can also find an expansive selection of DJ equipment, including the latest portable PA system Sydney-based DJs are vouching for. Audiophiles would also be delighted to rummage through the collection of headphones, speakers, audio interfaces, and vintage vinyl.

Importantly, you will also find heaps of music books, sheet music, and instructional materials across multiple genres – jazz, blues, rock, classical, and many others. It’s a learning base for individuals keen to polish their music reading skills or pick up a new instrument.

Mjusic stores also house a variety of recording gear – microphones, audio mixers, soundproofing material, audio looping equipment, and more. These components help musicians capture and shape sounds to create their unique pieces or record albums at home. With the rise of bedroom producers, the demand for compact and affordable recording equipment has seen a vast increase, and mjusic stores have smoothly adapted to meet these requirements.

One key feature that has set up modern mjusic stores apart is that they serve more than a place to buy musical instruments and gadgets. They’ve become institutions of learning. Many mjusic stores run music lessons and workshops, inviting local or even globally renowned musicians to guide and inspire the next generation of music worshippers.

Customers can walk in and try out a digital piano, hold a guitar to feel its weight, or test the sound quality of a portable PA system Sydney has not heard off. This interactive buying experience makes mjusic stores an essential destination for all music lovers. These stores allow you to engage with the instruments physically, ensuring that it’s the right fit for you. Moreover, the staff at these stores are usually knowledgeable musicians themselves, offering expert advice, which makes the buying process even more satisfying.

Fundamentally, mjusic stores are not just a store; they act as heralds of music culture, embracing the old while encouraging the new. They foster a sense of community, a shared space for people to bond over a shared musical connection. Alive with sounds of talents and dreams, it’s a place to inspire and get inspired. After all, a mjusic store is not about transaction; it’s about transformation.

Experience Class And Style: Why You Should Visit Kitchen Showrooms Sydney

Filed Under (Kitchen Home Improvement) by Admin on 22-12-2023

The first rooms that often come to mind when one consider a home remodeling are the kitchen and bath. This is not a surprise considering that the kitchen and bathroom are arguably the most-used rooms in a home. They set the tone for the overall appeal of your space and can either make a strong or flimsy impression on the visitors, realtors, or potential buyers.

For home-owners who are looking to renovate their kitchens or bath in the vibrant city of Sydney, exploring the concept of a physical visit to kitchen showrooms Sydney can save you from design disasters and unnecessary costs that usually follow impulsive decisions.

The Ultimate Kitchen and Bath Showrooms Experience

Taking a trip to kitchen and bath showrooms allows you to interact directly with different layouts and designs, appliances, fixtures, and furnishings, all in one setting. There’s a huge difference between viewing online images of remodeled kitchens and bathrooms and actually being able to feel the textures, see the actual sizes and proportions, and envision how certain colors would complement your existing space.

Another advantage of kitchen showrooms Sydney is that you will get an opportunity to connect with design consultants who can help translate your ideas into functional, stylish designs. These professionals can guide you through the entire process, help you make more informed decisions, and provide insightful tips on project management, all based on your unique needs, preferences, and budget.

Learning about the Latest Trends

A visit to kitchen showrooms Sydney gives you a first-hand opportunity to see and understand the latest trends in kitchen and bath design. Showrooms keep up with the market trends, display the latest in smart technology, and demonstrate how cutting-edge kitchen appliances and bath fixtures operate. Whether it’s the ever-trendy open concept kitchen designs, statement-making minimalist bathrooms, or smart home integrations, a showroom reflects the course of the industry.

Comparing Quality and Prices

Visiting kitchen and bath showrooms allows you to compare the quality of different brands’ products. For instance, you can physically see or feel the sturdiness of kitchen cabinets, the texture of countertops, and the efficiency of certain appliances. Along with quality, you can also compare prices, allowing you to make an informed decision.

Conclusion

Being an integral part of the home, the kitchen and bath bear the brunt of daily routines and are thus central to the daily living experience. If you want value for your money and an aesthetic space that matches your style, a trip to kitchen showrooms Sydney will be worth it. With their extensive range of products and professional consultancy available, these showrooms facilitate a smooth, hassle-free renovation experience, enabling you to fulfill your vision for a dream kitchen and bathroom.

Pool Building: A Comprehensive Guide

Filed Under (Swimming Pool Builders) by Admin on 14-12-2023

Building a swimming pool at your home can be a fantastic idea. Not only provides a wonderful spot for relaxation and exercise, but it also significantly increases the property’s value. Nonetheless, pool building is a significant investment and a complex process that requires careful planning and seasoned professionals. In fact, with the right team such as custom pool builders Northern Beaches, you can ensure a beautiful and well-constructed swimming pool that fits your preferences and budget.

Planning

Like any other construction project, pool building begins with planning. This involves deciding on its purpose, whether it’s for recreational, therapeutic, or aesthetic purposes, and its size, location within your property, and design. You also need to consider the landscaping, safety measures, and local regulations and building codes. Remember that this implementation phase is the perfect moment to be creative and distinctive, and professional pool builders will help you bring your vision to life.

Selecting the Right Pool Builder

For excellent results, you need to select the right pool builder. It’s crucial to choose a reliable and experienced pool builder that can design and build a pool tailored to your needs. Notable providers such as the custom pool builders Northern Beaches can provide a bespoke service with vast experience in different types of pool construction. Ensure that your chosen builder is licensed, insured, and can provide a comprehensive building service from design, construction, to maintenance.

The Design

Your swimming pool’s design is perhaps the most exciting part of the pool building process. It involves materials selection, picking suitable colors and textures, deciding on the pool shape, and the incorporation of additional features like waterfalls, slides, and infinity edges. For a customized and unique style, consider rich materials such as glass, quartz, or ceramic tiles that the custom pool builders Northern Beaches is renowned for utilizing to create elegant pools that blend beautifully with the surrounding landscape.

Construction

A well-coordinated and professional pool builder team eases the construction process. This begins with excavation, followed by structural framework and reinforcement, plumbing and filtration installation before application of the interior finish. Pool builders ensure that the quality of work adheres to the highest standards and safety regulations to last throughout the pool’s planned lifespan.

Completion and Maintenance

Once your pool is built, filled and systems are tested, the pool builder will give you a thorough run-through of how to operate and maintain your new pool. Pool builders like the custom pool builders Northern Beaches not only construct your pool but also provide you with needed orientation and follow-up support.

In conclusion, building a pool is a worthwhile but complex venture, and the appropriate planning, design, construction, and maintenance processes are crucial. Partnering with experienced and professional pool builders can make your dream pool come true while evading unnecessary difficulties. Specifically, the custom pool builders Northern Beaches is an exemplary service provider ensuring that customer satisfaction is their topmost priority. Their excellent craftsmanship guarantees a pool that is both attractive and safe – a perfect addition to your house!

Understanding Network Supplies: Features, Importance, And Monitoring Capabilities

Filed Under (Networkings Solutions) by Admin on 07-12-2023

Ensuring a stable, efficient, and secure network infrastructure is at the heart of thriving digital ecosystems, most of which are reliant on quality network supplies. Encapsulating hardware, software, and services, network supplies are the nucleus of seamless communication, productivity, agility, scalability, and security. In this heterogenous mix, companies like Cisco have created a remarkable footprint, offering equipment which form the foundation of modern computer networks, including routers, switches, firewalls, and more.

A quintessential component of network supplies is the networking equipment. Prominent among this segment’s offerings are routers – devices that forward data packets along networks, switches – optimizing data travel by transmitting it directly to the destination within the network, and network security appliances like firewalls – software designed to block unauthorized access while permitting outward communication. Moreover, wireless equipment, like modems and WiFi extenders come in handy for supporting wireless connections within a network. Modems convert data to a format that can be transmitted, while extenders amplify the signal reach of your wireless network.

Software components, although less tangible, play a pivotal role in managing the infrastructure. Network operating systems facilitate networking functions like routing, switching, and internetworking. Network management software, on the other hand, allows network engineers to use a single interface to manage, update, and troubleshoot a network’s components. Today, we also have Innovative cloud-based solutions like the Mobile Device Management (MDM) system by Cisco Meraki, an effective tool for managing all network devices from a centralized dashboard.

So, what can Cisco Meraki MDM monitor? Their MDM solution, part of the broader Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) offering, offers valuable insights into users, devices, and applications running on your network. It features an intuitive, web-based dashboard that provides an unparalleled lens into the users’ devices without needing on-site it personnel. It can monitor virtually all mobile devices, including laptops, tablets, and smartphones across multiple platforms – iOS, Android, Windows, etc. It can oversee hardware details, installed software, security postures, network settings, and much more about the endpoint devices. But perhaps its most important feature lies in its ability to remotely lock and erase data on the device, critical for avoiding data breaches in cases of device loss or theft.

In discussing network supplies, the credence of support services must also be addressed. Reliant on technical expertise, these services ensure the proper functioning of hardware and software elements. Services can be preventative, like regular network audits for anomalies, or remedying, to solve specific network problems. These integral services help organizations save valuable resources and maintain network health.

Proper implementation of quality network supplies and services has emerged as a critical determinant of operational success across industries. They ensure seamless communication, foster resource accessibility, and help protect sensitive information. Smart network solutions are no longer a choice, but a business imperative in our increasingly connected world. Therefore, continuous investment in efficient, secure network supplies, and close monitoring using tools like Cisco Meraki MDM can lay the groundwork for resilient and future-ready network infrastructures.

The Importance Of Choosing The Right Plastic Surgeon Near Me

Filed Under (Medicine) by Admin on 02-12-2023

Let’s face it, we all want to look our best. For some of us, this might mean getting a little help from a professional. Perhaps, you have considered undergoing a cheek fat surgery? If you’re reading this article, it means you’ve started the journey of finding a good plastic surgeon near you, and you’re not alone in this journey.

The increasing desire for cosmetic surgery, specificallycheek fat surgery, makes picking the ideal plastic surgeon more critical than ever. But how do you know who to trust your enhancements with? Read on for some tips on finding the best possible plastic surgeon in your locality.

Consultation and Communication

The cornerstone of any successful relationship is good rapport and effective communication. This holds true for relationships with doctors as well, and particularly with plastic surgeons. Your surgeon should be someone who listens to your needs and understands your requirement. Your consultation session is your best opportunity to assess the personality and professionalism of the surgeon. If you’re considering a cheek fat surgery, make sure your surgeon fully understands your expectations and provides realistic feedback.

Qualifications and Credentials

Considering the gravity of the procedure, it’s important to ensure the surgeon you choose is certified, well qualified, and experienced. The field of plastic surgery is highly specialized and requires specific training and certification. Validate their certification from authorized boards like the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Your potential surgeon should be forthright about their experience specifically with cheek fat surgery. Don’t hesitate to ask for before-and-after pictures of past clients, which could serve as a testament to their skills.

Comfort and Safety

Alongside expertise and experience, comfort and safety should also be paramount in choosing a plastic surgeon. Make sure the clinic environment is hygienic and the staff is friendly and accommodating. Anesthesia options, recovery time, and complication rates are additional factors that you should discuss with your surgeon to ensure your safety.

Positive Reviews and Recommendations

Finally, word of mouth matters a great deal when it comes to selecting healthcare professionals. Take the time to read online reviews or ask friends and family if they have any recommendations for plastic surgeons. While reviews can’t replace a personal consultation, they can provide valuable insight into how the surgeon operates.

So, “Are there any good plastic surgeons near me?” Yes, there definitely are. However, finding the one who suits your needs, especially for a cheek fat surgery, will take a bit of research, consultation, and consideration.

Conclusion

Remember, plastic surgery is a choice that you make for yourself and it’s crucial to make an informed and confident decision. Whether it’s a simple procedure like cheek fat surgery or a more complex procedure, selecting the right surgeon is the first and most critical step. Take your time, do your homework and you’ll be well on your way to achieving the aesthetic results you desire.

The Dinner Plate: The Centrepiece Of Every Meal

Filed Under (Dinnerware) by Admin on 29-11-2023

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The dinner plate, a seemingly simple and ubiquitous item, has a rich history and an evolving role in our dining tradition. Something we encounter every single day and often take for granted, the dinner plate is more than just a flat dish we pile food onto. It plays a pivotal role in the presentation of a meal, how we relate to food and shapes our perception and enjoyment of what we’re about to eat.

Historical Context of the Dinner Plate

The history of the dinner plate is a fascinating journey that mirrors society’s evolution over time. Initially, plates were not used at all; instead, food was served on large slabs of bread, known as trenchers, that could be eaten afterward. The use of ceramic plates started in the 5th century, though only for royalty and nobility, while common people continued to use trenchers until the 16th century.

The Modern Dinner Plate

With technological advancements came changes in design and materials used for the dinner plate. Today, plates are mostly made from materials such as porcelain, bone china, stoneware, bamboo, and melamine. The right choice of plate can elevate even the most ordinary weeknight dinner into a special meal, reflecting an aesthetic that can range from rustic country charm to sleek modern minimalism.

The size of the modern dinner plate has grown from the standard 9 inches of the 1950s to a typical 12 inches today – a revealing insight into the growing portion sizes of our time that could serve as a cautionary tale about over-consumption.

The Right Plate for Every Occasion

Dinner plates are no longer a one-size-fits-all affair. There’s a vast array of shapes and sizes available for sale, from round to square, oval to rectangular, each shape serving a specific purpose. Round plates, for instance, are perfect for traditional meals, while square plates are often used for more modern and creative presentations. The right plate can complement and elevate your meals, turning a simple dinner to a work of art.

Choosing your dinner plate does not merely depend on aesthetics; functionality also plays a part. Microwave and dishwasher safe plates are in high demand currently. Moreover, with healthy living being a trend, plates that cater to portion control are also seeing an uptick in sales.

Pairing Dinner Plates with Modern Appliances

Just as your dinner plate needs to be chosen with care, so too does your cooking equipment. For those trying to live a healthier lifestyle or simply cook more efficiently, the latest cooking trend might catch your fancy. Let’s talk about the air fryer. You can buy air fryer online now from a plethora of businesses, from well-known brands to smaller companies. This appliance allows you to enjoy the texture of fried foods, but with a fraction of the oil and fat.

Owning quality dinnerware goes hand-in-hand with owning quality cooking equipment; in effect, it enhances the dining experience. Combining the use of a modern air fryer with professionally crafted dinner plates is a culinary marriage forged in foodie heaven. With the right dinner plate to present your food, you’ll see just how great an impact this can make!

Conclusion

Your dinner plate does so much more than simply hold your food. It is an integral part of your dining experience, has a rich history, and its evolution reflects the change in societal norms. From size to shape, design, and material, there is a lot to consider when buying a new set of dinner plates – and now, you should be well-equipped to make the perfect choice to enhance your dining experience.

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The Marriott: A Luxurious Getaway Destination

Filed Under (Hotel) by Admin on 26-11-2023

Marriott International, a leading name in the hospitality industry, is recognized worldwide for its superior beliefs in putting people first, embracing differences and pursuing excellence. Founded by J. Willard and Alice Marriott, the company boasts a vast spectrum of hotels and resorts. One of their most cherished properties in Marriott’s repertoire, particularly for winter enthusiasts, is their resort located in the stunning Australian snowfield region, Jindabyne.

Jindabyne, tucked away in New South Wales, Australia, is a town of natural beauty and is considered a hub for snow lovers. Any mention of Jindabyne immediately strikes a chord with those who find solace amidst snow-capped mountains and thrill in winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and tobogganing.

Discovering Marriott’s Jindabyne Property

Marriott has elevated the experience of snow vacations in Jindabyne to an unmatched level of luxury. Their property, enveloped by the mesmerizing Snowy Mountains, brings to its guests the unique blend of chic comfort and breathtaking panoramic views.

Every corner of Marriott’s property in Jindabyne narrates a tale of elegance and style. The spacious rooms and suites filled with warm, welcoming hues and high-end amenities speak volume about Marriott’s commitment to ensuring an experience of utter comfort and luxury. To warm up after a chilly day in the snow, guests are welcomed into cozy lounges with roaring log fires.

Marriott’s Ski Packages

A strong appeal of the Marriott Jindabyne lies in its unique ski packages. Catering to both novices and seasoned skiers, these packages are tailor-made to suit the needs of their diverse clientele. They focus on not just offering the finest accommodation but also creating a wholesome vacation experience.

Jindabyne Best Snow Accommodation Deals

One key aspect of making Marriott’s Jindabyne property a go-to destination for snow vacations is their ability to offer some of the best snow accommodation deals. Whether it’s their special early bird offers, group discounts, or customized packages, Marriott ensures that luxury doesn’t come with an exorbitant price tag.

In addition to great accommodation rates, Marriott perks include passes to skiing and snowboarding, dining credits, gear up with the latest equipment rentals, and bookings for backcountry tours all at competitive prices.

Fine Dining at Marriott Jindabyne

The pleasure of staying at Marriott’s Jindabyne property isn’t complete without mentioning their appetite-arousing cuisine. Mouth-watering delicacies are prepared by top-notch chefs in their in-house restaurant to offer a sublime culinary experience. Enjoy the international cuisine that tantalizes taste buds and revel in the comfort of their warm dining area whilst viewing stunning snowfilled landscapes.

The Marriott Legacy

Marriott’s legacy of hospitality rests on their commitment to exceptional service. It’s not merely about evacuating the weary travelers to their rooms after an arduous journey, but it’s about creating a personalized experience from the moment they step in.

From their helpful concierge, world-class amenities, to the exceptional array of services, Marriott’s Jindabyne property truly upholds Marriott’s global reputation. For snow lovers planning a trip down under, the Marriott Jindabyne with its Jindabyne best snow accommodation deals is definitely a winter wonderland destination worth considering.

Dealing With Dyscalculia

Filed Under (Speech Therapy) by Admin on 20-11-2023

Dyscalculia is a big word, a mouth full, really. Most people are aware of it and aware that it has to do with problems doing math. But this syndrome encases so much more than simple math inefficiencies. Dyslexia is so common that everybody knows what it is, and reading and writing problems seem to get all of the attention. But what about math problems? Is it just math anxiety, or is there a real underlying problem?

So, what is dyscalculia? Dyscalculia is a term, which means “specific learning disability in mathematics”. Following is a list of symptoms of dyscalculia:

· Poor mental math abilities

· Inconsistencies with basic computation of addition, multiplication, division, and subtraction

· Difficulty understanding money and credit concepts

· Fails to understand how small steps add up

· May use number additions, substitutions, transpositions, and reversals (this is similar to the dyslexia that we are all familiar with except it is with numbers)

· Almost always unaware of mistakes

· May do well on book work but fails math tests

· May do well with reading, writing and other subjects but cannot seem to understand mathematical concepts

By now you may have a general idea that you or your child might be suffering from dyscalculia. It is often more frustrating than any other learning disability, because usually these kids do so well in other subjects. “Just try harder,” parents lament. Or, parents will bring out the trusty old flash cards and force the child to go over them time and again. By the next day it is new information to the child, and the frustration goes on. Parents are convinced that the child is just being lazy and trying to not do math, when nothing could be further from the truth.

After the immense pressure of performing well in math and trying hard, these kids really do develop a math anxiety on top of dyscalculia. They do have processing disorders and are being made to perform with intense pressure to do well. This math is like a foreign language to them, and we are asking them to speak it fluently in front of a large group of people.

Generally, once dyscalculia is diagnosed, the student is given modifications to help. Modifications are great. The best modification for dyscalculia is to arrange to have the student re-take a math test that was failed. This sure takes the pressure off. There are other modifications that can help, but it is most beneficial to get to the root of the problem. The left and right side of the brain must be considered. The processing must be dealt with. The anxiety must be calmed. Then, and only then, will the student succeed.

First, the left and right sides of the brain must become balanced. It is common knowledge that the left hemisphere of the brain is where we process math and logic. Most kids with dyscalculia are right hemisphere dominant. They are simply not using the left sides of their brains. They need taught how to do this. There are many brain-building exercises available that will do this. The brain needs to be balanced for efficient use. The student needs to be able to access the left side of his brain as easily as the right, and then math can be learned. The brain must be taught how to access the left side of the brain. In addition, it is always best to have these kids use colored pencils and blank sheets of paper when doing math. Color is what keeps the right side of the brain focused. These right brain dominant kids see colors and pictures. As they work on their math, the color keeps them focused. The blank paper keeps them from getting distracted.

Most kids start doing better in math after a few weeks of brain balancing exercises. The magic eights activity with numbers is truly magic for these kids. It is also a good idea to have them count by 2’s, 3’s, 4’s, etc. This orders their world and helps their brains work in a more systematic way. Have them write their 2’s one day, 3’s the next, and so forth. Cross-crawls, martial arts, baseball, and golf are all good brain building exercises, too. These alone won’t cure dyscalculia, but they all will help.

Next, let’s deal with processing disorders. These kids just can’t keep three or four images in their minds. And we ask them to do long division. Boy, division is long for these kids. While the ace math student is on number 24, these kids are still on number 1. Their pages are a mess after all of their erasing, and they just can’t remember what 5×6 is. By the time they figure out what the answer to 5×6 is, they forgot where they were on their page and which step they were on. Was it the multiply part or subtract? And it goes on. Of course they don’t get the right answers and they come home with 40 math problems to do. (OK, here is a modification that is good, too. Have the student’s problems shortened until success is met.) Throw in fractions, and these kids are convinced they can’t do math and that they are dumb.

The problem really isn’t the math. The problem is that they are weak in visual memory and they have a difficult time processing more than one step at a time. So, work on visual memory skills first with these kids. The weak visual memory is why they can’t remember their math facts. I have yet to meet a kid with dyscalculia who knew all of his math facts. The best way to do this is to hold up a card with a few numbers and shapes on it. Here is an example:

2 7

Hold this card up to the child for about 5 seconds and take it away. The child then copies the shapes and numbers from memory. As the child gets better at this, add more shapes and numbers. A few minutes of this every day helps. Eventually, you can move on to a math fact done in the same manner. Did you notice the use of color again? Black and white does very little for these kids. We want to meet them half way and give them some tools for success. Color is one of these tools. Don’t use purchased flash cards for these kids. You may have noticed by now that they don’t work. Give them a math fact in color and use it in the above-mentioned manner. Do about 2 or 3 a day. Don’t overload them. Have them recall the facts from yesterday before moving on. If they are still having trouble, they need pictures and stories to help them remember. If this doesn’t work, then they need a tactile method. Have them write their facts in shaving cream. Soon, all of the facts are learned, and math becomes much easier.

Next, you need to make sure these kids are able to do more than a couple of steps at a time. Practice with commands such as walk, jump, skip. Keep adding on to the list of commands. Do this on paper. Say two numbers. The student is to write them. Add another number. The student must write it and the previous numbers. Play with pattern blocks. You and the student both have a matching set. Make a shape with yours, show it to the student and then cover your set. The student must remember the order the shapes were in a place his in the matching order. Give the student a number. Have him add another number to it. Then have him remember that number and multiply a number with that new number, and so on. You see, these are games that build on processing.

Card games are wonderful. Board games help, too. Let your kid be the banker, even if he messes it up. It’s only a game. Help him give change back. I have noticed that kids who play a lot of board games with their families do better in math than those that don’t. Kids who play a lot of video games seem to do worse. Do you see the connection? I use the game Blink a lot with my students with dyscalculia. They must be thinking of many things at one time, just like you need to with long division. Kids love games and will play them longer.

Finally, the math anxiety must be dealt with. This is the most difficult part of dyscalculia for many people. After all is said and done and the student is performing better, he still keeps the anxiety. Every test can cause his palms to sweat and his heart to beat fast. He is basically in fight or flight, and we know that we can’t learn and think in this mode. We simply react. With the new math standards going to more and more reasoning and problem solving instead of computation, this is not the best method for a struggling math student.

Take the pressure of the kid to start with. If he fails a math test, so what? See if the teacher will let him take it over. Practice the night before the test to assure confidence. Don’t berate the child for doing poorly. Don’t punish because of his grades. He really is doing the best he can. If the student is in high school and needs credits, you will have to be very actively involved in the student’s life. Teachers must be aware of the problem and be willing to help. Go over daily work with the student. Have practice tests with the students. Pretend that it is test day at school. You may even have to have the student tested in a separate room so they are not watching what other kids are doing. My daughter has math anxiety. We found out last year that if she went to the back of the room to a separate table that she did much better. She was judging herself against the other kids who were whipping through the test and she had herself convinced that she would fail because they were smarter than her. The mind is truly amazing, isn’t it?

These are just some basic tips to help you with a child with dyscalculia. There are so many more things to do to help these children. Just be sure that they do get help. It is lonely and scary to be in a math world that you just don’t understand.

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