As Easy as 1, 2, 3: Exploring Early Math in Public Library Storytimes

Abstract

Public library storytimes are recognized as early literacy environments for young children and research has demonstrated their early literacy impact for children who attend. While storytimes hold on to their identity as early literacy environments, storytime providers have moved beyond early literacy by placing a broader focus on school readiness skills. In working to understand the knowledge and skills that constitute school readiness, researchers found that early math skills are the strongest predictor for later school achievement. Therefore, to support school readiness effectively, storytime providers should focus on supporting early math skills in their storytimes through play-based methods. This study was designed to provide insight into the early math environment provided by public library storytimes. The results reveal that storytimes are providing a play-based, early math environment in which children are exhibiting early math behaviors, suggesting that storytimes are supporting early learning more broadly and helping to prepare children for school.