Let’s be honest—getting kids to memorise their math facts can sometimes feel like pulling teeth. 😅 But it doesn’t have to be painful (for them or for us)!
Math fact fluency is all about helping students answer basic facts quickly and accurately, without finger-counting or long pauses. And the best part? You can teach it in fun, easy ways that fit right into your day.
Here’s how to make it happen:
1. Start With Understanding,
Not Just Memorising
Before kids can fire off 7 × 5 without thinking, they need to get what’s happening with the numbers.
👉 Teach them cool tricks like:
-Doubles and near doubles
-Making tens
-Using facts they already know to figure out new ones
Need an easy place to start? Grab my Free 5 Times Tables Matching Activities here! It’s a fun, no-pressure way to help students connect the facts in their brains.
2. Keep Practice Short and Sweet
Nobody (and I mean nobody) wants to drill facts for an hour straight. Instead, sprinkle in quick 5–10 minute bursts throughout the day.
Some ideas:
- -A fast math game to kick off your lesson
- -Exit tickets with quick fact checks
- -Partner challenges before recess
If you want ready-to-go activities that make life easier, check out my Multiplication and Division Facts Practice Activities here. Just print and go!
3. Turn It Into a Game
Let’s face it: kids are WAY more into math when it feels like a game. 🎲
Some fun ways to sneak in practice:
-Times tables bingo
-Math scavenger hunts
-Quick-fire fact races
Looking for even more game-style ideas? The Times Tables 1 to 10 Activities here are packed with games and activities that students actually want to do.
4. Meet Students Where They Are
Not every kid will master their facts at the same pace—and that’s okay!
Mix it up so everyone feels like a rockstar:
-Give extra practice for the tricky facts
-Challenge the fast-finishers with puzzles or mixed review
-Celebrate every win, big or small
If you’ve got students who love a brain teaser, they’ll love the Basic Facts Maths Puzzles over here. Perfect for keeping things interesting!
5. Celebrate Every Step
Kids (and adults) need to feel good about their progress. Celebrate often:
-Use sticker charts
-Shout out small wins
-Reward fact fluency milestones with fun certificates
The more we celebrate, the more motivated they’ll be to keep going. 🎉
You’ve Got This!
Math fact fluency doesn't have to be a daily battle. With the right mix of understanding, quick practice, and plenty of games, you can help your students become math fact masters—and have fun along the way.
