Key Stage 1 Times Tables

About KS1 Times Tables

KS1 Times Tables introduces children aged 5-7 to early multiplication by helping them recognise equal groups, repeated addition, and simple number patterns. These teacher friendly quizzes keep practice short, positive and easy to repeat.

At this stage, children build confidence with counting in steps and spotting patterns, which supports later work in multiplication and division. Regular practice also strengthens mental maths, so pupils can answer more quickly and focus on understanding the question rather than getting stuck on counting.

Parents can help by practising little and often and linking tables to real life, such as counting wheels on toy cars, eggs in boxes, or socks in pairs. Repeating a quiz after a day or two helps facts stick and makes progress easy to notice.

Official curriculum guidance

For the statutory KS1 and KS2 maths programme of study used in England, see GOV.UK: National curriculum in England: mathematics programmes of study.

Frequently Asked Questions

When do children start learning times tables?

Many children meet early multiplication in Year 1 and Year 2 through counting in steps and making equal groups. Some pupils begin with simple patterns such as 2s, 5s and 10s.

Why are times tables important at KS1?

They build number sense and confidence. Knowing simple multiplication facts supports counting, division, and later KS2 maths topics such as fractions and problem solving.

How can parents help at home?

Keep practice short, use games and repetition, and connect facts to everyday situations. A few minutes a day is better than a long session once a week.

What if my child keeps making the same mistake?

Go back to counting equal groups with objects, then say the number sentence out loud together. Once the idea is clear, return to a short quiz to rebuild speed and accuracy.

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