5 Math Picture Books

Mathematics is often viewed as a complex and abstract subject, but it is all around us, from the patterns on a butterfly’s wings to the symmetry of a snowflake. Introducing mathematical concepts through picture books can make the subject more accessible and enjoyable for young learners. Here are five math picture books that beautifully integrate mathematical concepts into engaging stories, helping children develop their math skills and appreciation for the beauty of mathematics.

1. “The Greedy Triangle” by Marilyn Burns

This clever story follows a triangle who is dissatisfied with his shape and decides to add more and more sides to become different shapes. As the triangle transforms, he learns about various shapes and their properties, from triangles and quadrilaterals to hexagons and beyond. “The Greedy Triangle” is an excellent introduction to geometry, teaching children about the characteristics of different shapes and how they relate to one another. For instance, the book explains that a triangle has three sides, while a quadrilateral has four sides, and a hexagon has six sides. This helps children understand the concept of shapes and their properties in a fun and interactive way.

Mathematical Concept: Geometry, shapes, and their properties

The story of “The Greedy Triangle” is a great way to introduce children to the concept of geometry and the different shapes that exist in our world. By following the triangle’s journey, children can learn about the characteristics of each shape and how they are related to one another. This knowledge can be applied to real-life situations, such as recognizing shapes in nature or architecture.

2. “Ten in the Bed” by Penny Dale

In this delightful counting book, a series of animals sneak into a bed, and each time one gets in, the bed becomes more crowded. The story promotes counting, basic addition, and subtraction skills as the animals get in and out of the bed. “Ten in the Bed” is a fun and interactive way to practice math skills, encouraging children to count along with the story and predict what will happen next. For example, when the first animal gets into the bed, the story says “one in the bed,” and when the second animal joins, it says “two in the bed.” This repetition helps children understand the concept of counting and basic addition.

Mathematical Concept: Counting, basic addition, and subtraction

The story of “Ten in the Bed” is an excellent way to introduce children to the concept of counting and basic arithmetic operations. By following the animals as they get in and out of the bed, children can practice their counting skills and learn about the relationships between numbers. This knowledge can be applied to real-life situations, such as counting objects or people in a room.

3. “Sir Cumference and the Dragon of Pi” by Cindy Neuschwander

This charming story tells the tale of a kingdom where a dragon has stolen the magical Golden Scepter, which is the key to understanding the value of pi. Sir Cumference, a brave knight, must retrieve the scepter and learn about the mathematical concept of pi in the process. “Sir Cumference and the Dragon of Pi” is an entertaining introduction to the concept of pi and its significance in mathematics, explaining how pi is an irrational number that represents the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter. The story also explores the history of pi and its importance in mathematics and science.

Mathematical Concept: Pi, circles, and measurement

The story of “Sir Cumference and the Dragon of Pi” is a great way to introduce children to the concept of pi and its significance in mathematics. By following Sir Cumference’s journey, children can learn about the history and importance of pi, as well as its applications in real-life situations, such as measuring the circumference of a circle or the distance around a circular object.

4. “The Rabbit Who Wants to Fall Asleep” by Carl-Johan Forssén Ehrlin

This unique book uses psychological techniques and math concepts to help children fall asleep. The story incorporates counting, patterns, and other mathematical elements to create a soothing and calming atmosphere. “The Rabbit Who Wants to Fall Asleep” is an innovative approach to math education, using math concepts to promote relaxation and sleep. For example, the story uses a technique called “progressive counting,” where the narrator counts backwards from a high number to help the child relax and fall asleep.

Mathematical Concept: Counting, patterns, and mathematical relaxation techniques

The story of “The Rabbit Who Wants to Fall Asleep” is an excellent way to introduce children to the concept of math and relaxation. By following the rabbit’s journey, children can learn about the importance of relaxation and how math concepts can be used to promote calmness and sleep. This knowledge can be applied to real-life situations, such as using progressive counting to fall asleep or using math concepts to relax and focus.

5. “How Much is a Million?” by David M. Schwartz

This engaging book helps children understand large numbers and basic math concepts by using imaginative and humorous examples. The story explores what it would be like to have a million of something, making abstract numbers more concrete and accessible. “How Much is a Million?” is an excellent introduction to large numbers, encouraging children to think creatively about math and its applications. For instance, the book asks children to imagine having a million pencils or a million cookies, making it easier for them to understand large numbers and their relationships.

Mathematical Concept: Large numbers, basic math operations, and creative problem-solving

The story of “How Much is a Million?” is a great way to introduce children to the concept of large numbers and basic math operations. By following the story, children can learn about the relationships between numbers and how to think creatively about math. This knowledge can be applied to real-life situations, such as measuring large quantities or understanding the concept of scale.

In conclusion, these five math picture books offer a unique and engaging way to introduce children to mathematical concepts, from geometry and counting to pi and large numbers. By reading these stories, children can develop their math skills, appreciate the beauty of mathematics, and build a strong foundation for future learning.