 If times tables practice in your house looks like sighing, guessing and giving up… you’re not alone. The problem isn’t times tables – nor your child! It’s the way we’re asking them to learn.
Most practice relies on sitting still, repeating and hoping it sticks. But the strongest learners don’t just memorise; they learn by doing. One of the simplest ways to transform times tables practice is to get children out of their seats. Here are 12 simple movement-based games that make practice active and genuinely fun for all. And when you're child is ready to test themselves, try this timed video! 1. Answer Corners Place four possible answers in different corners of the room. Call out a question (e.g. 6 × 4). The child runs to the corner they think is correct. Example: Corners = 20, 24, 28, 32 → correct answer = 24 Make it better: Include a ‘common mistake’ answer (like 20) to challenge thinking. 2. Sprint & Solve Place question cards at one end of the room. The child runs to pick one, brings it back, and solves it aloud. Example: Card says 7 × 8 → child runs back and answers 56 Challenge: Can they get 3 correct in a row? 3. Hit the Target Stick numbers on a wall or floor. Call out a question and the child throws a beanbag at the correct answer. Example: Call: 9 × 3 → aim for 27 If they miss: They still say the answer out loud before trying again. 4. Times Table Relay Race Split into teams. Each player runs to answer one question, then tags the next person. Example: Player 1: 4 × 6 = 24 → runs back Player 2 goes next Goal: First team to complete all questions correctly wins. 5. Multiply & Move Answer a question, then perform that number as an action. Example: 3 × 4 = 12 → 12 jumps 5 × 2 = 10 → 10 claps Why it works: Links the number to physical experience. 6. Human Number Line Mark numbers on the floor (e.g. 0–50). Call out a question and the child must move to the correct answer. Example: 4 × 7 → child stands on 28 7. Dodge & Answer Throw a soft ball to the child while asking a question. They must answer before (or as) they catch it. Example: Throw → “6 × 8!” → catch + answer 48 Twist: Wrong answer = quick action (e.g. spin or squat) 8. Dice Dash Roll two dice. Multiply the numbers, then run to the correct answer card. Example: Roll 3 and 5 → run to 15 Extension: Use three dice for a bigger challenge. 9. Find the Fact Hide multiplication questions around the room. Children find one, solve it, and bring back the answer. Example: Find: 8 × 6 → return with 48 Make it competitive: How many can they solve in 5 minutes? 10. Red Light, Green Light Play as normal — but to move again after ‘red light’, the child must answer a question correctly. Example: Stopped → must answer 7 × 7 → say 49 to continue 11. Build & Run Give a multiplication. The child runs to build that number using objects (blocks, cones, etc.). Example: 4 × 5 = 20 → build a tower of 20 Nice link: Helps visualise what multiplication represents. 12. Correct or Chase Ask a question.
Why kids love it: High stakes + high energy. Why this approach works When children move, they’re not just practising, they’re learning in a way that lasts. These games:
Looking for more support with times tables? Take a look at this.
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