Literature for
Your Child & You
Why it’s important for children to read mathematical literatureStorybooks have been used to help children develop skills such as imagination, reflection, perspective-taking, and understanding social relationships (Browne, 1996); empathy (Holm, 2012); language, creativity, problem-solving, and movement skills (Gabbei & Clemmens, 2005); and mathematics (Hintz & Smith, 2013). Literature can enhance mathematical learning, as it helps build an understanding of mathematical concepts and skills through stories and illustrations, and supports the development of problem-solving skills. (Fettig, Schultrz, and Ostrasky) Children’s literature can help provide meaningful context and explanations of mathematical concepts, offer a review of these concepts, promote the development of number sense and critical thinking, and model interesting problems.
When children make connections with concepts, their interest grows. When they can connect with a story, they become more interested in math. As they read or listen to a story, they learn that math is everywhere, not just in their math class. Stories can help them access prior knowledge and connect the mathematical concepts to their everyday lives, as well as see themselves as mathematicians.
Fiction books based on mathematical concepts are wonderful explorations for both mathematically and verbally gifted children. Each finds what they need in the texts. Verbally gifted children can access the mathematical content presented in stories. Mathematically gifted students tend to access the content via stories at younger than recommended ages.
Why it’s important for adults to read mathematical literature
There is a wealth of rich literature to help parents increase their confidence with mathematics and to support their children’s mathematical growth. By reading books and articles about mathematics, parents model for their children the value of lifelong learning. Literature can also provide practical strategies and activities to help parents show their children that they can enjoy and succeed in math. Believing in one's self is the first step toward success.