Books for Kids to Explore Numbers and Counting in Nature

Nature is an amazing classroom where children can explore numbers, patterns, and counting. Through these beautifully illustrated books, young readers will discover how numbers appear in plants, animals, and other natural wonders. Here are three enchanting books that introduce math concepts in the great outdoors.

1. “Over in the Meadow” by Olive A. Wadsworth

• This classic counting rhyme introduces children to animals in their natural habitats. With rhythmic verses, kids count from one to ten while meeting creatures like frogs, fish, and bees in the meadow. The repetitive text and colorful illustrations make it easy for kids to count along.
• Perfect For: Ages 3-6
• Focus: Counting animals in nature through a rhythmic, interactive story

2. “Counting in the Garden” by Kim Parker

• Each page of this beautifully illustrated book invites kids to count plants, flowers, and animals they might find in a garden. As they explore each page, children practice counting and discover the beauty of nature with vibrant images.
• Perfect For: Ages 2-5
• Focus: Counting plants and animals in a garden setting, with detailed, colorful illustrations

3. “Raindrops Roll” by April Pulley Sayre

• This poetic book celebrates the wonders of rain and nature with close-up photographs and gentle rhymes. Kids count raindrops, leaves, and even animals in the rain, connecting them with numbers and the cycles of nature.
• Perfect For: Ages 4-8
• Focus: Observing and counting natural elements like raindrops, leaves, and insects

Discussion Questions

1. What animals or plants did we count in the story? Which one was your favorite?
   • Helps children recall and relate to the natural elements they encountered in the book.
2. Why do you think nature has patterns, like petals on flowers or lines on leaves?
   • Encourages curiosity about natural patterns and numbers in nature.
3. Can you think of other things in nature we can count?
   • Inspires kids to observe and find new patterns and counting opportunities outdoors.

Interactive Activity: “Nature Counting Walk”

Here’s a hands-on activity to bring math into the great outdoors!

1. Choose a Walk Location: Head to a local park, garden, or even your backyard.
2. Create a Nature Counting Checklist: Write down or draw items to find and count, like “5 flowers,” “3 birds,” or “10 leaves.”
3. Count Together: As you walk, count the items on your list with your child. Take a moment to talk about colors, shapes, or patterns in nature.
4. Record Your Finds: At home, make a “Nature Counting Chart” by drawing each item and writing the total number counted.

This activity builds observation and counting skills and helps kids connect with nature through numbers. Happy counting in nature!