A Story-based Approach to Introducing Mass Measurement in Preschool Education

Integrating mathematics with children's literature has emerged as a promising approach in early mathematics education. This study explores the use of the picture book Just a Little Bit (Tompert, 1997) as a pedagogical tool for introducing the concept of mass measurement to preschool children. The aim of the study was to design and implement story-based mathematical activities inspired by the narrative and to examine children's engagement and emerging understanding of mass comparison. The study involved 24 children aged 4–5 years attending a kindergarten in Slovenia. Six structured activities were conducted over a three-week period. Data were collected through systematic observation and analysis of children's drawings representing balance scales.The results indicate that the story stimulated children's interest and supported their engagement in measurement-related activities. Most children were able to distinguish between heavier and lighter objects and recognize the basic function of a balance scale, although only a small proportion accurately represented the direction of imbalance in their drawings. The findings suggest that children's literature can provide a meaningful context for introducing early mathematical concepts when combined with hands-on activities and guided discussion.