We’ve known readers were leaders for decades. But a new study is proving this truer than we ever imagined. In 2021, while conducting studies on the brain to see if it was possible to predict dyslexia in students, Dr. Christopher McNorgan (University of Buffalo) made a surprising discovery. He determined that reading tasks and seemingly unrelated tasks, such as math, are actually carried out using the same parts of the brain. His studies strongly support the idea that children learn more when reading and other topics are taught together.

It also means the case for Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM) books is a strong one. It was already generally accepted that success in subjects other than reading is largely determined by developing good reading skills as early as possible. Now, Dr. McNorgan’s new research offers solid evidence to help prove it. From this we can conclude that:

• The brain uses the same functional networks for math as for reading, which, in turn, means reading skill levels can affect how children (and adults) tackle problems in other subjects as well. This includes math and other STEM topics.[1]
• The development of early math and reading skills are intertwined. When math and reading are taught together, children learn more math than when they are taught math in isolation.[2]
• Children’s books provide many ways to highlight math. Even books not considered STEM books can offer opportunities to tell stories, read together, and engage in “math talk” about age-appropriate math concepts in ways that promote both literacy and math skills.[3]

Maybe it’s time to stop thinking of ourselves or our kids as “left-brained” or “right-brained.” If the brain is using the same networks to develop reading AND math skills, there’s no reason we can’t be successful at both. And, as parents and grandparents, we can help ensure our kids and grandkids are set up for success in both disciplines by providing plenty of opportunities to engage in reading and math activities combined. 

Due to increased demand for STEM topics, there are lots of new STEM titles currently available in the general market. Unfortunately, the Christian market has very little to offer in this area. We need to do better with this. But one source of STEM books is from author, Ken Ham. His books on dinosaurs, creation, Christian apologetics, and more are certainly good STEM examples. And although Ham is not their only author, Answers in Genesis is also a good source of books for parents and grandparents looking for science-based books with a biblical world view.

Keep in mind, however, that a book doesn’t have to be overtly Christian to be useful for introducing your littles to STEM titles. (Shameless self-promotion alert!) My most recent book is a STEM picture book that highlights the doubling sequence and days of the week. Too Many Pigs in the Pool! can be used to initiate playful discussions about numbers and the concept of multiplication. Although the book isn’t written specifically for the Christian market, it can certainly be read and enjoyed in any Christian home.

Our children’s success as adults depends largely on their ability to read well and grasp new ideas. We can help them achieve this by introducing STEM titles as often as possible. When we read these titles together, we stoke the fires of their imagination, increase their curiosity, and make solid contributions to their understanding of STEM topics. It’s a fun way to help them develop the skills they need to be successful.   

Wendy Hinote Lanier

Author of Too Many Pigs in the Pool! 2022 from Sleeping Bear Press

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[1] University at Buffalo. “Read to succeed — in math; study shows how reading skill shapes more than just reading.” ScienceDaily. www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2021/03/210311142044.htm (accessed December 30, 2021).

[2] Harris, Barbara, and Dana Peterson. Developing Math Skills in Early Childhood. Mathematica-MPR.com, 2017. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED587415.pdf.

[3] Ibid.