• Measurement
• Fractions
• Money
• Word Problems
• Place Value
• Geometry
• Data/Graphing
• Multiplication/Division

Let’s dive in and open the magic of math picture books!

Reading books to kids is CRUCIAL for building literacy skills—and when you add math into the mix, the magic multiplies! (see what I did there?!)  Math picture books make tricky concepts approachable while fostering creativity and curiosity. They also connect learning across subjects, showing students that math is part of their everyday world. Plus, reading together is just plain fun!

Must-Have Math Picture Books

My full recommendation list for your math lessons features 40 titles, but, for now, here are the deets on six fabulous books that I want to highlight to bring confetti moments to your classroom:

1. Actual Size by Steve Jenkins (measurement) Dive into measurement with this visually stunning book featuring life-sized animal illustrations. Students will love comparing their hands to a gorilla’s or marveling at a giant squid’s eye—a perfect way to explore units of measurement.
2. Fraction Action by Loreen Leedy (fractions) Fractions become a breeze with this colorful and relatable book. From pizza slices to classroom projects, Leedy’s characters make fractions fun and easy to understand.
3. A Credit Card Takes Charge by Kimberley Wilson (money) Bring financial literacy to life with this entertaining story about a credit card’s adventures. Students learn about budgeting and spending while enjoying the playful narrative.
   • {BONUS: I partnered with Kimberley Wilson in 2023 for my National Open the Magic Day celebration and she is a GEM of a human. Don’t sleep on her book series for your students!}
4. 7 Ate 9 by Tara Lazar (word problems) This laugh-out-loud math mystery is a classroom favorite! With clever wordplay and a fun story, kids practice basic arithmetic without even realizing it.
5. Lifetime: The Amazing Numbers in Animal Lives by Lola M. Schaefer (number fun/place value) Explore data and graphing through fascinating animal facts, like how many eggs a frog lays in its lifetime. Schaefer’s captivating book makes math feel meaningful and real.
6. The Greedy Triangle by Marilyn Burns (geometry) Geometry takes center stage in this delightful tale of a triangle transforming into new shapes. It’s a creative way to introduce polygons and their properties.
7. Spaghetti and Meatballs for All by Marilyn Burns (multiplication/division) This charming story turns a family dinner into a lesson on multiplication and division. As the guest list grows and tables are rearranged, students see the importance of grouping and sharing. It’s a delicious way to explore math concepts in everyday situations.

Ready to add some magic to your math lessons? This list is your go-to resource for finding books that make math fun, memorable, and meaningful.

Let’s make math magical!

By bringing math picture books into your classroom, you’re giving students the gift of learning through stories. Whether it’s a silly mystery or a stunning visual journey, these books will create confetti moments your students won’t forget. Don’t wait—download the free Math Picture Book List now and start opening the magic of math in your classroom!

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The post How to Make Math Fun: The Best Picture Books for Elementary Student appeared first on Ramona Recommends.