Using Math Multiplication Games in Homeschools

Many children have trouble learning multiplication, whether they are homeschooled or in a conventional classroom setting. Using a multiplication game may be the best way to get those facts cemented in their long term memory.

There are board games, computer games, and electronic games available that will all teach your child the same thing; learning multiplication can be fun!

Games for Effortless Learning

Children, especially at the elementary level, learn most easily by using all of their senses. For example, baking cookies in number shapes and then creating math facts with them allows the child to taste while learning. Having a child jump rope while reciting multiplication tables, or using sandpaper numbers, allows him to feel the facts, and so on.

Since many elementary aged children, and especially boys, seem to learn better when there is physical activity involved it is a good idea to concentrate on board games.

By introducing a variety of multiplication games into the homeschool setting your child can memorize the multiplication tables without effort over a relatively short period of time. Since he is having fun he will be able to concentrate on the task at hand (playing the game) and he will be eager to “practice” more often.

Math board games give the physical and mental stimulation that most kids need as well as the chance to practice the math facts. Some children, especially those that have played mostly video games, do not have the long term concentration skills it takes to play board games and you may need to plan on short games as you build up to a normal play time.

Factor Frenzy

Factor Frenzy is like a game show where students race to be the first to answer questions correctly. 2-4 players.

Iguana Factor

The players move around the game board and capture opponents’ pieces. 2- 4 players

Math Dash

Up to eight players must place four playing pieces in a row by correctly solving multiplication and division facts. They learn strategy as they block their opponents’ moves.

Math War

Remember the card game everyone played as kids? Well Math War is just like that except it uses special multiplication cards rather than traditional playing cards.

Nasco's Operations

Solve math problems to move around the board. The dice are thrown and the two numbers noted. An operation card must be drawn to find out which mathematic operation will need to be used to find the answer and move ahead.

Times Tables Board Game

Times Tables is a free, printable multiplication board game for a group of students. The players must maneuver around the board by answering questions, rolling the die, or following special instructions.

Totally Tut

Race across the desert and be the first player to get to the pyramid. Movement is determined by giving the answers to a variety of equations.

Electronic games include hand held, computer, and video games. The hand held games are great to keep in the car to entertain your child during errands and trips. Electronic games can usually be played as either a one player game against the computer or multi-player games against siblings and friends.

Cluefinder Mystery of Monkey Kingdom

Your child will travel to the rain forest to help find Dr. Horace Pythagoras, a scientist who has suddenly vanished without a clue. He will use all of his skills in math (including multiplication and division) to solve the mystery and find the scientist.

Digitz

Students choose between five options from skip counting to finding factor pairs. Lights and sound effects add excitement.

Flashmaster

This electronic flash card system replaces flashcards in all operations. Suggested play time is ten minutes a day for maximum retention.

Timez Attack

A high tech game that has excellent graphics and allows your child to think he is getting away with just playing a game. You will be the only one to know he is learning. (see video)

Twist and Shout

Twist and Shout is a unique game that will entertain your child for hours. Multiplication problems are created by turning the dials. The game involves music, an electronic voice, and flashing lights – parents be warned!

There are many games available for free on the Internet. Using these online resources you can utilize the benefits of electronic learning without spending a dime.

Academic Skill Builders - This site has arcade style multiplication games

Cool Math 4 Kids – A variety of online games for any interest or level

Gamequarium – Arcade style games that will pique any child’s interest

KidsNumbers.com - Games designed by teachers to help children with math

Multiplication.com - This site has several different online, arcade-style multiplication games

Mythmatical Battles - An online role playing game that requires your child to solve equations to win battles

Play Kids Games - Multiplication games and other educational games in an arcade format

Softschools.com – A variety of math games for all levels

You can easily (and cheaply) create multiplication games for your child at home. Usually the materials are things you already have around the house.

Bingo

Make you own Bingo cards from poster board. You can either write the numbers in by hand or use a stamp pad for a more professional look. Give your child a Bingo card and then hold up a flash card. He must solve the equation and cover the correct number on the board.

Existing Board Games

Rather than adding the two numbers on the dice in any game have your child multiply them. It will almost be like playing a new game; it will move faster and be more challenging.

Egg Carton

This Egg Carton Multiplication Game is a homemade multiplication game that uses egg cartons and other items you probably have at home.

War

War is easy to play with flash cards rather than regular playing cards. Players must solve equations to determine the winner of each round.

A Great Method for Perfecting Math Skills

Memorization is boring and most kids just fight against it. Because they dislike it is can take longer for them to learn the facts. Using games brings fun back into math and helps your child “get it” more quickly whether you use conventional curriculum or pursue a lifestyle of unschooling.