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My First Counting Books: Military Series

Army, Air Force, Marines and Navy Themed

July 5, 2013
From the innovative gift book publisher Cider Mill Press, this one-of-a-kind counting book series features the numbers 1 through 10 within four themes, celebrating the Unites States Air Force, Army, Marines, and Navy. Each of the four books features colorful illustrations and poetic prose that distinguish the numbers as well as the four branches of the United States Armed Forces. Traditions, uniforms, equipment, medals and other mementos of the services are paired with numbers and a rhyming scheme to make them memorable, recognizable and fun to read. The sturdy and durable board book format is perfect for repeated handling by young children.
 
The inside back cover of each book provides a key for parents and educators to teach children further information and facts about each item. For example, in all books, the number one is paired with one American flag, and the key explains that each star represents one of the 50 states. In My First Counting Book: Navy, for the number ten, "10 signal flags used for communication" is paired with an illustration of 10 different flags. The key explains the the Navy uses signal flags to silently communicate with other ships without using their radios.
 
The challenges military children face are great, yet many families find that feeling a stronger connection and sense of community within the service helps with staying positive, informed, and proud of their sacrifices. These books incorporate vital "counting" lessons with a patriotic theme that helps connect learning with this distinct lifestyle. While military families can especially appreciate the themes, any child can benefit from having these books to learn and grow. 

You can find these books at Barnes & Noble and Amazon.com.