Learning times tables may seem like a daunting task for children and teaching them multiplication can seem just as hard. However, there are many tips and tricks that you can use to teach your child to master multiplication. Teaching your child the times tables can become a fun family activity that you can incorporate into daily routines. Once your child has it down, correct answers will come effortlessly, providing a rewarding experience for everyone involved.
Step 1
Concentrate on one set of multiplication tables at a time. According to Math and Reading Help, begin with all the 2's, then move onto the 3's, the 4's, and so forth.
Step 2
Grab a set of same colored index cards. Write the multiplication problems out on the cards and have your child write the answers on the back of the cards. Go through an entire set together.
Step 3
Take the next set of colored index cards and use them to create the next number set. Do this until you have covered all number sets.
Step 4
Review each set at a time until the child has remembered each set.
Step 5
Grab a sheet of paper and have your child draw horizontal and vertical lines for each number in the equation. If the problem is 2 x 3, have 2 vertical lines and 3 horizontal lines drawn. Every place the lines intersect is the answer to the problem, thus the lines will intersect 6 times.
Step 6
Create a chart of the multiplication tables on a large poster board. Hang it on the wall and review it often with your child.
Step 7
Locate a multiplication workbook for your child. Study different activities together to see which one catches on with him.
Tips and Warnings
- The website Multiplication.com has numerous activities and suggests administering a pre-test and post-test to see where your child's level of understanding is and how well your child learned in the end. Multiplication is simply repeated addition, so remind her of the basics of adding. Teach your child that 2 x 4 is the same answer and 4 x 2, so if numbers are reversed, the answers are always the same. Practice multiplication during opportune times such as driving in the car or eating dinner. Demonstrate to your child times table problems and answers with small crackers or baby carrots. Every child has a different learning style so experimentation is key.
- Stay patient with your child and don't expect results immediately. Encourage your child through positive reinforcement and never scold or belittle.
Things You'll Need
- Multiple colored index cards
- Marker
- Poster board
- Multiplication workbook
