Rainbow Skies for Teachers
Hey there, amazing teachers - this podcast is for YOU! Whether you’re just starting your teaching journey or you're a seasoned educator seeking inspiration, Rainbow Skies for Teachers is here to help you thrive in and out of the classroom.
We’re Ashleigh and Alisha, your enthusiastic hosts and co-founders of Rainbow Sky Creations. With 20+ years of combined experience in primary education, we’re dedicated to sharing practical advice, supercharged tips, and game-changing strategies to help you succeed as a teacher.
Whether it’s crafting engaging lessons or perfecting your classroom management, we’ve got your back. We're on a mission to lead an education revolution; one inspired teacher at a time….
There are rainbows ahead, and together, we're unstoppable!
You can follow us on Instagram or TikTok @rainbowskycreations
To discover more helpful tips + tricks for teachers, head to http://www.rainbowskycreations.com
Rainbow Skies for Teachers
140. Multiplication Facts Not Sticking? Here's What Actually Works
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Do your students freeze when faced with multiplication facts? Or perhaps they're relying solely on memorisation without really understanding what multiplication means?
In this episode of Rainbow Skies for Teachers, we're diving into one of the most important building blocks of math: multiplication fluency. We unpack what fluency actually looks like in the classroom, why so many students struggle with multiplication, and how we can support them through engaging, hands-on learning experiences.
Rather than focusing on speed and rote learning alone, we're exploring how students can develop deep understanding, flexible thinking, and confidence with multiplication facts. From practical classroom strategies to game-based learning ideas, this episode is packed with simple ways to make multiplication practice meaningful and enjoyable.
In this episode, we discuss:
- What multiplication fluency really means (and why it's much more than memorising times tables)
- Common reasons students struggle with multiplication
- How mathematical language supports deeper understanding
- Hands-on activities that help students visualise multiplication concepts
- Why games are one of the most effective tools for building fluency
- Simple ways to incorporate short, consistent fluency practice into your daily routine
- Brain break activities that reinforce multiplication while boosting engagement
- How to build confidence by focusing on understanding before speed
Multiplication fluency isn't built through pressure, timed tests, or endless worksheets. It develops when students have opportunities to explore patterns, use a variety of strategies, and engage in regular practice that feels achievable and fun.
When we prioritise understanding first, confidence naturally follows.
There are rainbows ahead,
Alisha and Ashleigh
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Free Flip it Multiplication Game
Our fave Multiplication games blog post