This reference is for Processing 2.0+. If you have a previous version, use the reference included with your software. If you see any errors or have suggestions, please let us know. If you prefer a more technical reference, visit the Processing Javadoc.

PShape states;

void setup() {
  size(100, 100);
  states = loadShape("tristate.svg");
  int count = states.getChildCount();
  println(count);
}

sh.getChildCount()