What are the four tricks to make learning multiplication tables easy?

by Anna Rose Blogger

Going from learning subtraction and addition to multiplication is one of the most daunting things that students have to face. It is certainly a step up from the simplicity of addition and subtraction, and in the beginning, it can feel quite challenging. The trick here is to make it interesting for them to learn multiplication. You will have to make sure that you do not get caught up in the age-old technique of making children memorize the tables. So, here is taking a look at the four tricks that can make learning multiplication tables easy.

1.Relate multiplication to addition

The biggest mistake you can make while teaching multiplication to your kids is asking them to memorize the table from the first day. Try to anchor the concept in their mind in terms of its relation to addition. After all, it is nothing but repeated addition, and approaching it this way will make your child have a better grasp of the concept.

2. Let them start from the basics

There is no point in making them learn the multiplication tables from two to twelve on the first day. It will only scare them and make them detest math forever. So, start slow with the simplest tables like zero, one, two, and three. They can move on to the rest of the tables after they have learned these simple ones. Introducing them to the tables of seven, eight, and twelve will only intimidate them.

3. The Waldorf multiplication flower technique

Waldorf multiplication flower is a fun way to make children learn the multiplication table. Children start this activity by drawing the center of the flower, in which they write a number between 2 and 12. They will then draw twelve petals around the center, with each petal having the numbers from two to twelve. Another set of petals is to get drawn from the first set of petals. This final set of petals will have the central number multiplied with the number of first petals.

4. Quiz them regularly about multiplication tables

You can use maths worksheets that focus on multiplication to understand how far they have learned the tables. Ask them simple questions about multiplication while they are on their way to school, or you are waiting with them for the school bus. Keep in mind that these random quizzes are fun only when done now and then. Quizzing them constantly can make it too stressful and uninteresting for them.

Try these tricks, and you will see that your children will not only learn multiplication easily but also have an interest in solving the sums. Make sure you encourage them to practice it regularly.