Understand how the math works yourself. If you don't understand the math theory, you won't be able to teach learning disabled kids. It's not enough to know the how of an operation, you have to know the why as well. So brush up on math theory if you're rusty.
Use manipulatives. Manipulatives are tactile, three dimensional teaching aides and can be as simple as playdoh-although items such as cuisenaire rods are sold specifically for math. Many learning disabled kids are visual-spatial learners and have difficulty visualizing concepts in print, making manipulatives essential for learning math.
Play math games. Games are an excellent way to engage kids in using math and improving math skills. There are inexpensive books full of games and activities. However, the key ingredient in math games is parental involvement. Parents needs to sit down and engage their kids in these activities in order for their children to benefit. See the Resources Section for links to suggested resources
Don't do too much math. Learning disabled kids have so many obstacles to learning, they get overwhelmed by the negatives. Aside from seeing the world inside out and upside down, many LD kids hate school and math, so slamming them with an hour of instruction and dozens of worksheets will only turn them off even more. Work in half hour increments that are divided into ten minutes of instruction, ten minutes of manipulatives, and ten minutes of worksheet (no more than 3-5 problems). Go for quality, not quantity.
Review math concepts constantly. Once a math skill is mastered, do one review problem a week. Many learning disabled kids have retention difficulties, making review essential for long term learning.
Build the student's self esteem. Many learning disabled kids are struggling academically or have been perceived to be stupid by peers, family members, or teachers, all of which undermines their self-esteem. Structure activities so that kids will be successful. Start out with easy problems and give them an opportunity to feel empowered when it comes to math.
Create a flow chart in MS Word on how to do a particular operation. This provides a sequential visual reference that kids can use to work through problems on their own. Consider assigning color codes to operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, especially for kids who may see in color.
Quit before kids get frustrated and have a game like Rush Hour on hand that will still work logic skills, but give them a break from a particular math concept. Every time you push a learning disabled kid to the point of frustration, you completely alienate them from the learning process. Helping learning disabled kids with math is not just about the math, it's about their emotions and psychological scripts too.
Get a tutor. If learning math is becoming a power struggle or source of contention, get outside help. A tutor provides third party objectivity free of family dynamics and good tutors have experience teaching kids who are stuck. Tutors do not have to be expensive if you are willing to do the leg work to find them. Advertise on college campuses and in your neighborhood before paying the high fees of a Sylvan Learning Center or other tutoring agency. Expect to pay $20 an hour for a private tutor and upwards of $30 to $40 an hour for a tutoring agency.