How to teach multiplication to kids using fun, easy, and effective strategies. Help children master times tables with real-life tips and tricks!
How to Teach Multiplication to Kids
Are you tired of hearing “I don’t get it!” every time you try to explain multiplication?
You’re not alone. You don’t need to be a math genius to help kids learn multiplication. It can seem scary at first. But with the right approach, it becomes easy. Learning multiplication is like riding a bike. You need the right tools, patience, and practice.
Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or tutor, this guide shows you how to teach multiplication to kids. We use clear, engaging methods that really work.
Why Is Multiplication So Important?
Let’s talk about why multiplication is important.
Multiplication is the base for:
- Division (it’s the reverse!)
- Fractions
- Algebra
- Everyday life math (like counting money or baking cookies 🍪)
Kids who learn multiplication early feel more confident in math. It’s a big step. But we can make it fun and easy.
1. Start With What They Know: Addition
Kids already know how to add, right? That’s your starting line.
Pull Quote: “Multiplication is just fast addition—help kids see the connection and it clicks faster!”
For example:
- Instead of saying 4 × 3, say: “What’s 3 + 3 + 3 + 3?”
- Let them see how multiplication is groups of the same number.
This builds familiarity before diving into those scary times tables.
2. Use Real-Life Objects to Count In Groups
Kids are visual and tactile learners. They love to touch, see, and move stuff.
Grab items like:
- Buttons
- LEGO bricks
- Snack pieces (yep, even candy!)
Let’s say you have 3 groups of 4 jelly beans:
- Group 1: 🍬🍬🍬🍬
- Group 2: 🍬🍬🍬🍬
- Group 3: 🍬🍬🍬🍬
Now ask, “How many jelly beans in total?” That’s 3 × 4 = 12. Tasty and effective!
3. Introduce the Concept of Arrays
Arrays are like magic for multiplication.
What’s an array? It’s a neat arrangement of objects in rows and columns.
Here’s how to show 3 × 5:
Copy
Edit
😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀
This helps kids see multiplication in action. Let them create their own arrays using toys, stickers, or stamps.
4. Sing It Out With Catchy Multiplication Songs 🎶
Kids learn songs faster than rules. So, why not make multiplication facts into songs?
Search YouTube for:
- Multiplication Mash-Ups
- Schoolhouse Rock
- Times Table Songs
Or, create your own silly rhymes! For example:
“3 times 3 is 9, feeling fine like a porcupine!”
The sillier, the better. They’ll remember it forever.
5. Make Skip Counting a Daily Game
Skip counting is key for multiplication.
Here’s how:
- Count by 2s, 3s, 5s, and 10s
- Use hopscotch, jump rope, or claps
For instance, say:
- “Let’s count by 4s while we walk up the stairs.”
This makes learning movement-based fun. Plus, it’s exercise too!
6. Focus on One Times Table at a Time
Don’t overwhelm kids with all tables at once.
Instead:
- Start with the 2s
- Then move to 5s, 10s, and 3s
- Save 7s, 8s, and 12s for later—they’re trickier
Use this order to build confidence step by step.
7. Use Flashcards… But Make It Fun
Yes, flashcards work—but they don’t have to be boring.
Try:
- Color-coded cards
- Matching games
- Quick quizzes with prizes (even stickers can be super motivating)
Keep it short and upbeat. 10–15 minutes a day is enough!
8. Turn Multiplication Into a Story
Storytelling helps kids relate to what they’re learning.
For example:
“You have 4 boxes of cupcakes. Each box has 6 cupcakes. How many cupcakes do you have total?”
Let them draw or act it out. Turning numbers into pictures sticks better than pure memorization.
9. Create a Multiplication Chart Together
Here’s a fun idea: Build a multiplication chart as a team.
Use stickers, markers, or even a poster board. Let your child color in the boxes they’ve mastered.
It becomes a visual reward system and boosts their motivation.
10. Use Games and Apps That Teach Multiplication
There are tons of fun digital tools out there.
Popular picks:
- Times Tables Rock Stars
- Kahoot!
- Prodigy
- Math Bingo
Kids love screens—why not use them for good?
11. Reinforce With Repetition (But Mix It Up!)
Repeating things is important. But, do it in different ways every day.
Mix things up with:
- Puzzles
- Challenges
- “Beat the clock” games
Revisit tricky tables often, but in new ways. This keeps things interesting and stops boredom.
12. Add Multiplication Into Daily Life
Make math a part of daily life:
- “If we buy 4 packs of gum with 5 pieces each, how many pieces?”
- “There are 3 rows of chairs with 6 chairs each—how many total?”
Learning math in real life helps a lot.
13. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection 🎉
Keep things relaxed. Focus on:
- Effort
- Consistency
- Growth
Give praise like:
“Wow, you remembered your 6s today! That’s awesome!”
A little encouragement goes a long way.
Let’s Recap: Quick Multiplication Strategy Chart
| Strategy | Why It Works | Fun Factor |
|---|---|---|
| Arrays & Objects | Visual learners love it | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Songs & Rhymes | Boosts memory | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Games & Apps | Feels like play | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Helpful Skip Counting Guide
| Number | Skip Counting Example |
|---|---|
| 2s | 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 |
| 5s | 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 |
| 10s | 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 |
Times Tables Mastery Order (For Success!)
- 2s
- 5s
- 10s
- 3s
- 4s
- 6s
- 9s
- 7s
- 8s
- 12s
- 11s (they’re sneaky but easy!)
Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This!
Teaching multiplication can be fun. With creativity and patience, it becomes an exciting journey. Kids learn best when they’re engaged and having fun.
Just remember: Every child learns at their own pace. Celebrate small wins, be flexible, and enjoy the ride. You’re building more than math skills—you’re building confidence.
FAQs
1. What’s the best age to start teaching multiplication?
Kids are usually ready around 2nd or 3rd grade. But, you can start with simple ideas as early as age 6.
2. My child hates math. How do I keep them interested?
Make learning a game. Use songs, stories, apps, and rewards. It should feel like fun, not a chore.
3. How long does it take to learn multiplication?
With daily practice (10–15 minutes), most kids learn their facts in a few months.
4. Are flashcards better than apps?
Both are good! Flashcards help with remembering, and apps make it fun. Mix and match for the best results.
5. What if my child struggles after trying everything?
Every child learns in their own way. Try working with a tutor or teacher. Also, check for learning challenges like dyscalculia.
