First Bible Basics: A Counting Primer

Baby Believer

by Danielle Hitchen, Jessica Blanchard (Illustrations)

Teach Your Child Counting and Bible Basics

Your family will love this totally unique board book! Each page features colorful, engaging artwork, reframing abstract, but vitally important biblical content into the manageable concept of basic numbers (1-10) for your young child.

For your child...
They will delight in the bright illustrations and counting along with you. Also, they will be exposed to the vocabulary of basic theology in a format that will help them categorize and retain the information.

For you...
You'll appreciate the artistic design, engaging content, and helping your child learn to count. And who knows? You might even learn something about the Bible you didn't know before!

***
Baby Believer primers are designed to grow with children, from early infancy through elementary school. In addition to basic Bible theology, Baby Believer board books are filled with quotations from the Bible, creeds, hymns, church fathers, and other articles of faith to help reinforce the content and provide intellectual handholds for older children who possess a greater capacity for learning and memorization.

Genres: Childrens, Picture Books, Faith, Christian, Nonfiction, Christianity

20 pages, Board Book

Published October 1, 2017

Reviews

[Melody Schwarting · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you've ever had a burning desire to teach a one-year-old about the hypostatic union, look no further. One God, "I AM." Two natures of Christ. Three persons of the Trinity. And so forth. (4-10 are Gospels, books in the Pentateuch, days of creation*, Jesus' "I Am" statements, beatitudes, fruits of the Spirit, and commandments.) How many board books can you find that quote Augustine? A fun way to introduce littles to counting via Christian thought. Yes, this is probably more rewarding for the adult than the child, but still super fun. Would unironically read this to a roomful of adults to discuss basics of Christianity.


*There were seven days of creation. God rested!! While six is a difficult number in Scripture, and I can't come up with a better substitute off the cuff, I'd have appreciated a note on the bottom of the page saying God rested on the seventh day.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Knowing that teaching my girl the Gospel is the most important task before me, I am always on the lookout for books that will point her to Jesus. First Bible Basics is a fantastic resource full of truth and beautiful illustrations. I love that it gives her some (important) basics about the nature of God, who Jesus is, and more. I'm excited to read through it each day with my girl and allow it to help direct us into even deeper conversations about the Bible.

It's simple, but profound and the illustrations are so lovely I want to hang them on her wall. I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a way to help their children learn the basics of the Bible. This board book is perfect for even the littlest ones.

[Dani Munoz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm always hunting for Christian baby board books for my daughter, and am so delighted I came across this one! I was automatically intrigued that this title teaches numbers AND theology. I hadn't seen anything like it elsewhere. Upon receiving it, I love its vibrant colors, sophisticated illustrations, and solid doctrine. My little one enjoys it now, but I can also see it being something we can reference as she grows! I received a copy from the author but these opinions are my own.

[Wayne McCoy · Rating 4 out of 5]

'First Bible Basics: A Counting Primer' by Danielle Hitchen with illustrations by Jessica Blanchard is a board book with a theological theme to it.

Starting with 1 for God and ending with 10 for commandments, the book goes through basic important things in the christian faith. There is the Trinity (3) and the fruits of the Spirit (9) among others. For some numbers there is a corresponding Bible verse or explanatory text.

The illustrations are colorful and work well. Most of the text might go over a young toddler's head, but with time, the explanations can be conveyed. I liked the approach of this counting book.

I received a review copy of this ebook from Harvest House Publishers and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.

[Emily McFarlan Miller · Rating 3 out of 5]

Baby books are so weird. I don’t think my baby is going to come away from this book understanding the dual nature of Christ or quoting Augustine. But I realize many of these books are operating on one level for babies and another for their parents (and I do enjoy a good hymn reference).

My baby seems to enjoy the wonderful illustrations, though.

[Melissa Henderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very special meaningful book. Each page is filled with beautiful artwork relating to the Scripture in the book. Great for parents, grandparents, caregivers and everyone to read aloud. Wonderful for giving as a gift, too. I was given a copy of the book by the author and this is my personal honest opinion.

[Jen Bradbury · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of my favorite ways to teach my daughter about faith is by reading to her. For this reason, I'm always on the lookout for clever faith-related children's books.

Bible Basics: A Baby Believer Counting Primer by Danielle Hitchen, illustrated by Jessica Blanchard is one such book. It's a board book, making it the perfect book for my 22-month old daughter to interact with right now. She can look through it on her own without me having to worry about ripped pages.

If you have a little one, you know that people write counting books about anything and everything. Bible Basics is a counting book about faith and in that respect, it's very clever. You count some of the basic theological ideas within Christianity. For example: There is one God, two natures of Jesus, and three persons of the Trinity.

Each two-page spread contains the number that's being counted, a short and relevant Scripture passage or quote, and then a beautiful illustration that in the tradition of counting books, you can count.

As a parent, I love this book. As I teach my daughter to count, why not integrate Bible Basics in and amongst her other counting books?

As a youth worker, I must admit there are elements of this book that seem at odds with the developmental level you'd expect of a toddler looking at a board book. The quotes and Scripture passages are not written in the most toddler-friendly language. Much of what's being counted are abstract theological concepts that baffle many adults.

Perhaps, though, that's the point. Maybe teaching children these abstract concepts – in the same way we begin to teach them the abstract notion of counting – helps give them the foundation for a deep faith they can continue to build on as they grow.

Despite these concerns, I'm glad we own this book. It's one we'll use often to count and begin exploring faith. Any parent interested in doing both these things will appreciate Bible Basics, which would also make a lovely gift for an infant baptism.

[Jamie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Fun and Delightful Book

Bible Basics: A Baby Believer Counting Primer, is a wonderful book for parents to read with their young children. I was delightfully surprised as I read through this book. It is so much more than just a book about counting. Bible Basics by Danielle Hitchen is a beautiful introduction to Christian theology and the Bible.
With colorful illustrations and well-written content, Bible Basics is a helpful resource for parents. Not only a fun book to begin counting with their little ones, it is also a sound book for introducing basic Christian theology to young children. They will count the fruits of the Spirit, learn about God, the Trinity, and so much more. Each section is short with beautiful illustrations that will hold a little one's attention.
I very highly recommend Bible Basics: A Baby Believer Counting Primer. I love this book, and I am so grateful for a wonderful book that parents and grandparents now have for teaching very young children about God. It's excellent for reading with babies, toddlers, and pre- schoolers. However, it will delight all ages.

*I received a copy of Bible Basics: A Baby Believer Counting Primer from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. The opinion stated is my own. I have not been compensated in any way.*

[Lauren DuPrez · Rating 5 out of 5]

First Bible Basics: A Counting Primer is the first in the Baby Believer series created by Catechesis Books. This small and simple board books is geared toward children three and under and focuses on simultaneously teaching them to count while learning about God and the Bible. Through the use of aesthetically appealing illustrations, this book is sure to capture and keep the attention of little ones and guide them in learning how to count to ten.

The heart of the series, as explained on the back cover of First Bible Basics is, "Baby Believer Primers help you teach your children the central tenets of the Christian faith that they may never know a day apart from the Lord." Considering this, I am really excited to see First Bible Basics join the growing number of theologically sound books for young hearts.

Although this book is for babies, it is rich with truths from God's Word and I look forward to reading it to my daughter and purchasing her the upcoming books in the series.

I received First Bible Basics compliments of Harvest House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

[Bethany Barendregt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't tell you how much I love this book for littles (and honestly even bigger kids, too)! Not only does it contain lovely artwork, but it is also theologically sound! I love the quotes used - it has such a wonderful selection of supporting text to create a beautiful counting book that goes beyond the basics to engage children's hearts and minds.

[Stevie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great way to start introducing scripture and very basic doctrine to little ones and they get to practice counting! Beautifully illustrated with engaging colors and pictures. My child loves books and counting so this is perfect.

[Danette · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun counting book starting with 1 - God (I Am) and ending with 10 - The Ten Commandments. Beautiful art alongside quotes from hymns and St. Augustine, definitions, and Scripture verses.

4/30/19 Read with Julia.
2/9/20 Read with Julia

[Natalie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deep theology that's visually stunning and highly accessible? Yes please.

[Patti · Rating 5 out of 5]

First Bible Basics: A Counting Primer is a wonderful book for young children. It would be appropriate for preschoolers through kindergarten-age children. I teach the Sunday school class for two and three-year-olds and would love to have this book on the bookshelf. I also have a three-year-old granddaughter with whom I look forward to sharing it and talking about it. Why? Each number represents an important aspect of the Christian faith and each one is beautifully and whimsically illustrated. The descriptions of what is being illustrated are either straight from scripture or from a well-known hymn or person of faith. These are not only great for the children, but also wonderful reminders to the adult sharing the book. I don't think I've ever actually counted the number of the beatitudes (eight) or the number of the fruits of the Spirit (nine). The illustration for each number follows the description and has the same number of pictures as what is being described. For example, the eight beatitudes are illustrated with eight different flowers. This is perfect for counting practice. Altogether, this is a beautiful little book for teaching both counting and spiritual truths.

I am receiving a free copy of this book for an honest review, but I will buy other copies without hesitation!

[Christie Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really like this book. The illustrations are incredible and on the pages are crucial Christian concepts. Kids will come back to it because of the illustrations (and counting is always fun).

That said, I think it's the kind of book that adults love more than kids do, which is why I gave it 4 stars. A few of the days (like number 7: The I Am statements of Jesus and 8: The Beatitudes) won't have any meaning to children that read board books, because they are far too abstract. Children don't have the ability to think abstractly until middle grade, at which point they've outgrown board books. BUT this adorable book will likely inspire conversation, at least with older children, which is why I waffled between a 4 and 5 star review.

In summary, this is great book, and wonderful idea for a baby gift. Just be aware that it's a book that will seed ideas in your child's mind that will not be able to grow for many years. And really, that's ok.

(PS I got to take a peek at an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.)

[Lauren DuPrez · Rating 5 out of 5]

First Bible Basics: A Counting Primer is the first in the Baby Believer series created by Catechesis Books. This small and simple board book is geared toward children three and under and focuses on simultaneously teaching them to count while learning about God and the Bible. Through the use of aesthetically appealing illustrations, this book is sure to capture and keep the attention of little ones and guide them in learning how to count to ten.

The heart of the series, as explained on the back cover of First Bible Basics is, "Baby Believer Primers help you teach your children the central tenets of the Christian faith that they may never know a day apart from the Lord." Considering this, I am really excited to see First Bible Basics join the growing number of theologically sound books for young hearts.

Although this book is for babies, it is rich with truths from God's Word and I look forward to reading it to my daughter and purchasing her the upcoming books in the series.

I received First Bible Basics compliments of Harvest House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.

[Yibbie · Rating 3 out of 5]

It’s an interesting concept. I like the idea of familiarizing children with solid Biblical concepts and terminology when they are young. I’ve not seen it attempted in this manner before. But what better way to teach children that there is only one God than by stressing it as they learn the number one, or learning that there are three persons in the Godhead when they reach that number?
The selected readings are deep enough to generate conversations for several years. Some are simplified explanations, and some are direct quotes from Church Fathers or the Bible.
It has simple bright illustrations. They aren’t overly detailed. For example, the picture they have to illustrate Jesus’ dual nature looks like every other coloring book Jesus. I do like the bright colors.
I received this as a free ARC from NetGalley and Harvest House Publishers. No positive review was required. All opinions are mine.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm pretty picky about the children's books I'll recommend. I like clean, cute illustrations, as well as age-appropriate, meaningful words. This book goes above and beyond even some of my favorite counting primers (we have several!). It's not only filled with beautiful, clean illustrations, but it allows me to teach numbers and counting, as well as basics of the Christian faith. Children's books just don't get any better than this. I have an almost two-year-old and a four-year-old, and I think this book is perfect for both of them. I can start by teaching simple counting and basic words like "Jesus" and "patience" (we're working on that concept, of course!) with my toddler, but go deeper with my older kiddo on the theological points. I love how it will grow with them. In a nutshell, I'm THRILLED with this book!

I was given a copy of this book by the author in exchange for my honest review. This is my honest review.

[Kia Roy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is great because it compliments our children's first catechism. My older two kids who are already doing the catechism like reading this book to my younger two kids (toddler and baby) because they are able to expand on the basics presented in this book.

Not only does it guide you in counting to 10 with your little ones, it give them something else to associate with those numbers aside from your typical fruits or animals that you find in other counting books.

I am so glad to find a basic quick read to introduce the very foundational truths to our kids. The illustrations are gorgeous yet not overwhelming. The one caveat is that there is a picture of Jesus that some may find to be a violation of the 2nd commandment.

We love this book in our household and HIGHLY RECOMMEND it. Grab two copies, one for you and one for a gift. I will be making this part of my baby shower gifts from now on.

[Cassie Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I gave this book 5 stars because it is a great resource to teach my children the values we implement at home. That statement sounds so weighty, but it is a simple book with beautiful illustrations that show children gospel principles. Some of the things the book counts are: the Beatitudes, the fruits of the Spirit, the deity of Jesus (2, that He is both God and man), and the Ten Commandments. I love that I can count these things along with my children and remind myself of these truths. I have to add that this book is fun to read with kids at all ages, especially if they are just learning to count or learning to read by themselves. It is an excellent resource to reinforce the gospel to your kids.
I was given this book by the author in exchange for my honest review.

[Bethany Meacham · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a believer and mother of 5 little ones, I am always keeping my eyes open for great new resources to help us teach the truths of God's word to our children. I was so excited when I first heard about this book, but I was blown away by the BEAUTIFUL illustrations!!! As a visual learner myself, I was totally drawn to the illustrations in this book and my kids think they are "super cool" as welll! I look forward to reading this one again and again with my children! Not only will they be practicing counting and number recognition, but they will also be learning THEOLOGY! Plus, on a practical note, I love that it's a board book so it will hold up to lots of years of love in our house.

This will be my new go-to baby shower gift! Beautiful and intentional at the same time.

[Daniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Colorful, well-illustrated, counting board book from 1-10 that introduces big Christian concepts:

1 God
2 natures of Jesus
3 persons of the Trinity
4 Gospels
5 books in the Pentateuch
6 days of creation
7 “I AMs” of Jesus
8 Beatitudes
9 fruits of the Spirit
10 Commandments

Each is a two-page spread that has a corresponding description, Bible verse(s), or quote, along with pictures that can be pointed to while you read each of the items for that number.

The youngest readers obviously won’t understand much of the book, but reading it to them over the first several years of their lives can give them a vocabulary to grow into.

This book is well done enough so that my kids at ages 5 and 3 still enjoy my reading it with them.

[Rachelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Danielle Hitchen has created the perfect way to teach children numbers, but more importantly, teach them at an early age who God is, and the meaning of His Word. Each page is related to Scripture and filled with beautiful artwork that will attract all ages, from toddler to adult. Beginning with number 1 - Only ONE God, and ending with number 10 - The Ten Commandments, this book is a must for anyone with young children or grandchildren. An incredible, beautiful way to plant seeds at an early age! I will definitely be ordering this book for gift giving!

I was given a copy of this book by the author in exchange for my honest review. This is my honest review.

[Richelle Zirkle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love that this book can work as a way to teach and support teaching of counting skills. The illustrations are amazing. Many images have a paper craft quality to them, but all of them provide perfect depictions of the passages they portray regardless. I think this is a good way to introduce young toddlers to the bible and God's word outside of formal religious services. It can definitely work to support what our children are learning during services and children's ministry.

I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Bonnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

First Bible Basics: A Counting Primer is a great little board book! Not only are you counting but you are teaching them at an early age who God is! It is full of beautiful illustrations to go along with each lesson from the Bible. They will count the fruit of the spirits, the Trinity, the 10 commandments and so much more. A great book for parents and grandparents to help teach their little one.

*I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher for my honest opinion of this book. I will be buying hard copies to gift to my nieces and nephews!

[Producervan · Rating 5 out of 5]

First Bible Basics, A Counting Primer by Danielle Hitchen. Illustrated by Jessica Blanchard. Harvest House Publishers. 5 Stars. Cozy, helpful illustrations accompany this simple manual depicting fundamentals of the Bible for your child. Great for reading aloud once or numerous times to help your child learn elementary key concepts. Thanks to NetGalley and Harvest House Publishers for providing this ebook for review.

[Shannan Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

This children's counting board book is absolutely beautiful! I love the way the author put this together. The title is perfect. What the author used for counting is basic things from the Bible. It is never too early to teach these young ones about God and the Bible. The illustrations in this book are so beautiful! I highly recommend this book for those involved with little ones. I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions stated are solely my own

[Shannan Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

This children's counting board book is absolutely beautiful! I love the way the author put this together. The title is perfect. What the author used for counting is basic things from the Bible. It is never too early to teach these young ones about God and the Bible. The illustrations in this book are so beautiful! I highly recommend this book for those involved with little ones. I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions stated are solely my own.

[Benjamin Fowler · Rating 4 out of 5]

First Bible Basics is a great book for teaching some of the simple foundational truths of the bible to your little ones! My children loved the counting format, and the colorful illustrations! I will definitely be recommending it as a resource for parents who want to begin teaching their children basic theology at an early age. I love that my child is learning to count and while also learning about God! First Bible Basics is definitely a book you should add to your collection!

[Jeanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

2 nature’s of Jesus - Fully man, fully God. Veiled in flesh the Godhead see. Hail the incarnate Diety. Pleased as man to dwell, Jesus, our Emmanuel

Counting from one to ten. One God to the 10 commandments, your child will learn learn a firm foundation in faith. Not only good for children but us adults as well. Gave this one to my granddaughters as well. Looking forward to the next one in Psalm.

Encouraging to have like this one