Helping Your Child Master the Times Tables: the Element of Home Learning

When it comes to teaching your child the basics of mathematics, and specifically the times tables, some parents feel lost. This simple concept - that most of us eventually grasp so well - can be quite difficult for a child who is just starting out on the learning journey. One way to help your son or daughter is to work with him or her at home. To help you get started, we have developed this guide.

Why help with learning the times tables?

In a study performed by Thienhuong Hoang of the California Polytechnic University (CPU) (Learning and Instruction in Mathematics: A Study of Achievement in Saigon, Vietnam), it was found that there is a direct correlation between learning and two other elements, both of which have a direct effect on academic results:

·          the interaction level between students and teachers at school; and

·          the amount of homework children undertake.

As a parent, you can’t control the interactivity at school without changing schools, but you can ensure that your child undertakes meaningful study at home. In doing so, you can ensure that he or she grasps the basics of mathematics, including the times tables. The CPU study showed that the home elements of learning affect a child’s grade by about 25%. This is very significant by any measure, and should give you confidence that you can assist your child maximise grades by assisting with learning.

Steps to helping with learning the times tables

There are a few simples things you can do to help your child with learning the times tables at home:

1. Have high expectations: A student’s performance in school often directly relates to his or her parents’ expectations. Ensuring you clearly lay out what you expect is important to your child’s success.
2. Be a math advocate: A positive attitude towards math on your part will help your child to develop a love for the subject. Conversely, a negative attitude will often lead to disdain and disinterest.
3. Support your child in learning: Setting up time to study, working with your child and staying positive throughout the learning process are all important in giving your son or daughter the support needed to learn, and to feel good about learning.
4. Provide useful tools to learn with: One of the most important elements to help a child correctly grasp the times tables is repetition and testing. This needn’t take a lot of your time. There are simple tools (such as our own Times Table Tutor) which add visual and technological elements to aid in memorisation and recall.

Home involvement with your child’s learning doesn’t need to be difficult. Getting involved, though, is a great start in helping with learning such key concepts as the times tables. A proper grasp of these concepts is paramount to your child’s success as a math student right throughout the school years, and beyond into later life.