How to Make Multiplication Homework Fun
Starting in the second or third grade, children are expected to learn the multiplication tables. Many teachers require students to practice at home. However, just plugging away at boring flashcards doesn't inspire much fun and learning. Adding a little bit of creativity while practicing multiplication can improve your child's retention, and he just might look forward to doing his multiplication homework.
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Things You'll Need
- Colored construction paper, two different colors
- Favorite board game
- Sticky notes
- Bath crayons
- Small candies
- Sidewalk chalk
- Markers
Instructions
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Create your own multiplication memory game that focuses on a certain times table, for example the 3's table. Choose one color of construction paper, cut it into 2-inch squares and write the problems such as 0 x 3, 1 x 3, 2 x 3 and so on. Choose another color of paper, cut it into 2-inch squares and write the answers such as 0, 3, 6. Turn all the cards face down and play traditional memory. Each person chooses a "problem" color and an "answer" color. If it is a match, that person keeps the pair and tries again. If there is no match, return the squares face down and the next person takes a turn. This can be done with each set of times tables.
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Choose any of your child's favorites board games, such as "Sorry," "Monopoly," "Chutes and Ladders" or other game with a simple layout. Write multiplication problems onto sticky notes and place them onto the game spaces. Play the game as normal, but whenever a player lands on a math problem, she must answer the problem correctly before moving on.
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Use online resources to discover new approaches to learning. There are many songs, videos and recordings available on the Internet for memorizing the multiplication tables. Many educators believe that setting facts to music helps students memorize more quickly. The Internet also offers a wide variety of free online games and quizzes to help children play their way to memorizing the times tables. Spend some time with your child looking through those options to find ones that appeal to his tastes.
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Write out the multiplication problems with different mediums to make practicing more enjoyable. Purchase bath crayons and have your child write the times tables on the tile. Make jumbo-sized flashcards and have your child "write" out the answer using small candy, peanuts or raisins. Use sidewalk chalk outside for math practice. Write out math problems in rainbow markers and decorative swirls.
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Tips & Warnings
Your child is more likely to learn the multiplication tables with consistent and repetitive practice. Mix up the activities listed here and do one each weekday for homework. The more kids practice, the faster they will get.
If your child continues to struggle with the times tables, check with the teacher for any additional worksheets, puzzles or techniques that you can implement at home.
References
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