Native American Storytelling Math with Loose Parts

As we continue exploring #NativeAmericanHeritageMonth in meaningful, hands-on ways, today’s focus was all about math—using storytelling, culture, & loose parts to bring learning to life.

We read  Look, Grandma! Ni, Elisi! written by Art Coulson and illustrated by Madelyn Goodnight . This beautiful story weaves together diversity, math, & the power of storytelling. In the book, Bo wants to find the perfect container to display his traditional marbles for the National Cherokee Holiday. He experiments with many different sizes, learning about volume, capacity, & problem-solving along the way.

To bring this story to life, we set up an invitation to explore measurement through play! We placed a variety of containers alongside loose parts variety of marbles (one, two,three) inviting children to experiment with fitting the materials into each container. Through hands-on exploration, they naturally discovered concepts of volume & capacity just like Bo did in the story. 

Measurement learning begins early — often without formal instruction. From stacking blocks & sorting objects to weighing rocks or filling containers, children are constantly exploring comparisons, quantities, & spatial relationships in their everyday play. 

By combining storytelling, cultural heritage, & hands-on math experiences, we help children build a strong foundation in mathematics while deepening their appreciation for #Native voices & perspectives. Honoring #Indigenous stories through literacy & play not only celebrates cultural identity but also keeps these powerful narratives alive in the classroom & beyond.