Frequently Asked Questions

Why do math books help 1st graders become stronger readers?

Math books for 1st graders strengthen reading by giving children a meaningful reason to decode text. When a story involves counting or shapes, first graders must read carefully to follow the problem, which reinforces the phonics patterns they are learning such as CVC words, blends, and digraphs. Research on systematic phonics instruction (Ehri et al., 2001) confirms that applying decoding skills across varied content accelerates word recognition. On Bookbot, math picture books for first grade use decodable text matched to 1st grade phonics levels, so children practise reading and numeracy at the same time.

How can counting books for 5 year olds build vocabulary beyond numbers?

Counting books for 5 year olds introduce words for shapes, comparisons, and spatial relationships alongside number vocabulary, broadening a child’s language base. Stanovich’s Matthew Effect research (1986) shows that children who encounter diverse vocabulary through reading develop stronger comprehension over time. Bookbot’s math books for beginning readers pair this rich vocabulary with decodable text, with many titles free to read on the Bookbot website. For tips on reading together, see our guide on the benefits of reading aloud.

What makes Bookbot's math books suitable for children at the initial reading stage?

First graders are at what Chall (1983) describes as the ‘initial reading and decoding’ stage, where they need text carefully controlled for phonics complexity. Bookbot’s math books for 1st graders follow a structured scope and sequence that aligns stories with specific phonics patterns, from simple CVC words to consonant blends. This means children can focus on mathematical ideas like addition or patterns without being blocked by words they cannot yet decode.

How can parents use math picture books for first grade during read-aloud time?

Parents can read a math picture book aloud first, discussing the illustrations and math concepts, then let the child re-read independently to practise decoding. Research from the University of Chicago found that shared digital reading significantly improves literacy skills in young children. On the Bookbot website, many math books are available to read online, with select titles offering word-by-word highlighted read-aloud, making it easy to model fluent reading before handing the book to your child. For more strategies, see our guide on laying the foundations for a love of reading.