Should my child have a calculator as an accommodation in math?

Calculators can be a great tool for students who struggle with basic math facts. How and when to introduce the use of a calculator can be a common dilemma for IEP teams. It’s important to consider the overall objective in using the calculator. A calculator is not a replacement for teaching foundational math skills. Dr. Rachel Lambert says, “When a child is learning how to add and subtract small numbers, they need to learn through concrete manipulatives and putting blocks together before it becomes abstract. The calculator should not be the first tool because a calculator is abstract — you just punch in the digits. Learning addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division should be real, visual, and tangible for kids first, then gradually become more abstract. Once they can do a problem just with the numbers, that’s when you can transition to a calculator if they need it.”

Timing for introducing the calculator should depend on the student’s ability, but there may be some regulations depending on your state about the use of a calculator as an accommodation in statewide testing. If your IEP team is reluctant to introduce a calculator, ensure that other tools are considered, such as a number line, fraction bars, connect counters, a hundreds chart, an addition chart, or a multiplication table. Make sure these tools are written in as accommodations in the IEP, your child is taught how to use them, and the tools are provided in every math class.

Most students start working with a calculator in fourth grade because it gets them proficient with it. Students will continue to use that calculator in middle school. It can be particularly difficult for a middle school student to learn to use the calculator, having never used it, and follow along with grade-level work.

For more information on teaching math skills, see our full article Making Math Work for Kids with Disabilities. For more tools besides calculators to help with learning, see Math Curriculum Materials, Tech, Apps, and More!