A World of Numbers

We live in a world filled with numbers. We use
them to count, measure, label, code, and track.
And from a very early age, children exhibit delight
and curiosity about numbers and their meaning.
First comes a rote recitation: “One, two, three, four,
five.” Then, an understanding that this symbol—
“2” or “5” or “8”—stands for a certain number of
objects. And that a fourth birthday will be here in
just seven days. Preschoolers learn their home
address, phone number, then their grandparents’
phone numbers, and on it goes. By elementary
school age, youngsters are managing more complex
numerical operations as part of their school work,
but are still intrigued with the stories that numbers
tell. There is an array of books for children of all
ages that can enhance their understanding and
enjoyment of numbers.

The youngest children (and their parents and
teachers) will be enchanted by the lovely faces of
babies from around the world in My Teeth. All will
receive a gentle reminder about brushing teeth at
the end. Preschoolers love repetition and will
undoubtedly chime in at just the right moments
with the title line, Ten Little FINGERS and Ten
Little TOES. In Great Estimations, Bruce Goldstone
presents a different way to look at numbers. Using
dazzling photographs of everyday objects, he
encourages readers to estimate into the hundreds,
thousands, and beyond.

In all of these books, photographs, art work, and
stories combine to engage children in the world
of numbers. Numerical facts and figures form the
basis of fascinating children’s literature.

By Susan C. Brenner, EdD

Susan Brenner, EdD, is senior vice president of operations

and has been with Bright Horizons for more than 18 years. 

As a contributor to the Growing Readers Review since its

inception, Susan loves the discussion of great children's literature.

Table of Contents

Infant/Toddler
Preschool
Young School Age
Older School Age
Other Books By
Notables