Mathematics Problem-solving in Arabic Children’s Picture Books: A Source for Developing Skills and Values

Objectives: Reading picture books to children has been one of the most engaging activities. However, studies argue that books that include mathematics do not meet the standards required. Additionally, not a lot is known about how problem-solving tasks are presented in these books. Exploring the mathematics problem-solving presentation in Arabic children's picture books in the form of stories is the purpose of this study. The study also seeks to verify to what extent these books follow the standards that enable their benefits. Methods: Employing the content analysis method, 24 picture books from two series were analyzed; 12 of which are originally written in Arabic and 12 are translated. Results & Conclusions: Various aspects of children's story plots are uncovered, including posing, representation, solving the problem, and evaluation and interpretations. Most of these features are positive with very few that need to be revised and improved. The study concludes that adult readers' knowledge, expertise, and prior planning for the reading sessions are significant for children to gain the advantages expected and suggests that children's picture books should avoid presenting mathematical content in a didactic approach. In addition, checking the quality of picture books in home and classroom libraries is essential to ensure the best interaction children could have and acquire the advantages they offer.