Regarded as one of the hardest school subjects, many children (and parents) understandably struggle with the basics when it comes to mathematics. This is certainly the case when talking about times tables; a brain-training exercise that is vital for quick mental maths calculations and problem-solving.
Giving us nostalgic memories of times table tests and the joy felt when learning that trick to cheat your 9 times table with your fingers, maths is complex yet fascinating.
Here at Table Fables, we look to subtract the bore and multiply the fun element of learning times tables, utilising colourful games, rewards and cartoons to enhance a child's love and appreciation for maths.
So, if you are struggling to excite your child when teaching them their times tables, or want to brush up on your own maths skills, adding a multiplication game into the equation could be the answer!
Why Multiplication Games work
At Table Fables, we are made up of a team of seasoned teaching professionals; educators that boast a sound knowledge of what does and does not work when teaching the minds of tomorrow. And, it doesn't take a genius to work out that when something is fun, it is easier to learn.
Many researchers have proven that injecting fun and laughter into maths enhances the learning process and increases retention levels of information. Plus, when we are smiling and laughing, anxiety diminishes, opening up children's' brains to learn new things and develop their knowledge.
So basically, the more fun and games, the better!
Learning your multiplications
If your child does not know their multiplications, then nagging them daily may not prove to be the best teaching method.
Table Fables teaches children their multiplications through the use of funny stories and animations. Each number on Table Fables is represented by a character with a unique personality. Two characters interact to create a fun story which reveals the answer, producing a fantastic memory trigger. Combining entertainment with learning, our games teach, engage and get a good giggle from the kids all at the same time!
Incentivising children through multiplication games
Below are just a few ways we incentivise children on the learning curve through our action-packed multiplication games:
- Cartoons - All teaching is achieved through cartoons, making maths feel like playtime.
- Money - All children win money when they complete our 17-day challenge.
- VIP Area – We offer monthly prizes to those who have practiced the most on Table Fables.
- Shop - Children earn TF$ for every correct answer they provide. These can be can spent in the Table Fables shop.
Our multiplication games
Just like children learn in different ways, they play in different ways too. This is why those signed up to Table Fables can access a world of games, all differing in themes, styles and activities.
Below are four of our favourite multiplication games; all of which have been given the stamp of approval by children!
Multiplication Game 1: Fun Practice
Adult vs Child = Is there anything more fun than challenging your parents and coming out on top? As a mission for most kids, this hunger to reign supreme is something we tap into with our first game.
Challenging parents and children to complete Level 3 on Table Fables the fastest, this game is fun and fast-paced.
Adult handicap - Like in golf, work out a handicap for the adults. For example, adults get 2 minutes added to their final time. You may have to adjust the time for adults until the competition is fair.
Hint: If you are nice, let the children win a couple of times before ramping up the competition and making them work harder.
Multiplication Game 2: SWEETS!!
Bribing with sweets and chocolate is part of parenting, right?
This is why incorporating sweets into learning just works, being a great way to make practicing multiplications fun and rewarding. For this game, small sweets like skittles and smarties work well (and your child won't notice if you pop the odd one in your mouth).
You can substitute skittles for healthy options such as raisins, nuts or carrots if you wish.
Basically, you fire maths-related questions at your child and if they get the answer right, they get a sweet. Below are examples of questions you can use:
- Question: “You have 3 friends who would each like 4 sweets, how many sweets are needed in total?” - Give your child 15 seconds to answer. If they answer correctly, they keep the sweets!
- Question: “You have 32 sweets and 4 friends, how many sweets do they each get?” - Give them 20 seconds to answer this one. If they answer correctly, they receive scrumptious sweets as a reward.
- Question: “You have 108 sweets and each friend has 9 sweets in front of them. How many friends do you have?” - Give then 20 seconds to answer. If they get it right, they receive even more sweets as a reward.
Multiplication Game 3: Lego Bricks
There is no denying that kids love Lego. From building princess castles to fire stations, the humble little bricks can unlock a world of imagination.
Lego bricks are also another great way to practice multiplications and introduce the concept of calculating the area of a shape.
Like the above, this game works in the format of a fun quiz. Below are the questions you can test your child with.
- Question: “How many bricks do you need to build the foundations for a house 6 bricks wide and 7 bricks long?” - Give them 15 seconds to answer and 1 minute to build.
- Question: “How many bricks in total do you need to build the foundations for a house that is 4 bricks wide and 8 bricks long. Plus one that is 4 bricks long and 6 bricks wide?”- Give them 30 seconds to answer and 2 minutes to build.
- Question: “If I give you 56 bricks what's the widest and tallest foundation you can build?” - Give them 30 seconds to answer and 1 minute to build.
- Question: “If I give you 13 bricks what's the widest and tallest house foundations you can build?” - Give them 30 seconds to answer and 1 minute to build.
Multiplication Game 4: Money
Children will pretty much do anything for pocket money. Whether it be helping with the housework or simply behaving, for kids, money talks. This is why money is a rewarding way to help children practice their multiplications.
If your child is one that responds well to the promise of money, below are a few games you may want to give a whirl.
- Money Game 1. Hide two pence coins around the house.
- Question: “If you collect 8, two pences coins how much money will you have?” - Give them 30 seconds to answer and 1 minute to find them.
- Money Game 2. Hide five pence coins around a room.
- Question: “If you collect 12 five pence coins how much money will you have?” - Give them 30 seconds to answer and 1 minute to find them.
- Money Game 3. Hide twenty pence coins around a room.
- Question: “If you collect 7 twenty pence coins how much money will you have?” - Give them 30 seconds to answer and 1 minute to find them.
- Tip 1: increase or decrease the time depending on the child
- Tip 2: children get to keep the coins if they answer correctly. Keep repeating the game until they get it correct.
Sign up for a free trial
If you are exploring ways to get your children enjoying maths, then why not sign up for a free trial with Table Fables today? Then, you will be able to access a long list of amusing games, like the ones above, to enjoy together.