Games That Prepare Year 4 Students for Times Table Check

Many Year 4 pupils struggle with times tables because they lack consistent, engaging practice. Maths games offer a fun and focused way to prepare children for the statutory Multiplication Tables Check (MTC) without stress.

Why Times Tables Matter by Year 4

By Year 4, pupils are expected to know all multiplication facts up to 12 × 12. These facts support more advanced topics like division, fractions, and problem-solving in upper KS2.

Games make it easier for children to build speed, confidence, and recall through short, daily practice.

What Is the Year 4 Times Table Check?

The Multiplication Tables Check is a computer-based assessment designed to test rapid recall. Pupils have 6 seconds to answer each of 25 questions on random times tables up to 12 × 12.

This check assesses fluency, not written calculation methods, so quick-fire recall is essential.

Hit the Button

Hit the Button is one of the most effective tools for practising tables under time pressure. It offers both timed and untimed practice, along with progress feedback and topic selection.

It’s especially useful for helping children improve accuracy and build the confidence to answer within the required 6-second limit.

Times Table Rock Stars (TTRS)

TTRS gamifies times table learning with rock band themes and speed challenges. Children can compete against classmates or themselves while tracking their speed improvements.

Its “Soundcheck” mode closely replicates the MTC format, making it a valuable prep tool.

Daily 10

Offered by Topmarks, Daily 10 provides short mental maths challenges including multiplication. It allows users to set question types, number ranges, and response times.

Use it to build fluency through repetition and to familiarise pupils with digital test formats.

Mental Maths Train

This four-operations game supports speed recall in multiplication. It’s simple but effective for younger pupils who need a no-frills, direct practice platform.

It’s also ideal for paired or classroom use with interactive whiteboards.

Multiplication Games on SplashLearn

SplashLearn offers curriculum-aligned multiplication games for Year 4. These games include visuals, repeated grouping, and equation-building to support concept understanding and fluency.

It suits children who need structured progression before moving into rapid-fire formats.

Coconut Multiples

Coconut Multiples is a matching game focused on recognising multiples of chosen numbers. It helps pupils visualise patterns within the times tables, which is key to retention.

This game complements speed-based games by reinforcing number relationships.

Multiplication Bingo

Bingo-style games work well for group revision and boost motivation. Pupils solve multiplication problems to mark off numbers on their bingo cards.

It turns recall into a classroom competition that supports collaborative learning.

Printable Times Table Board Games

Offline games like board races and roll-the-dice multiplication keep learning tangible and social. They’re perfect for homework, maths stations, or tutor sessions.

Board games remove screen time pressure and involve parents in revision.

Custom Flashcard Apps

Apps that allow users to build their own multiplication flashcards can be tailored for weak spots. These are ideal for 1-on-1 tutoring or personalised learning plans.

Digital flashcards often include voice prompts and auto-correction to reinforce accuracy.

Combine Speed and Understanding

While speed is critical for the MTC, children should also understand the logic behind multiplication. Use a mix of quick-recall and conceptual games to balance both goals.

Avoid relying solely on drill-style apps, as comprehension is key to applying knowledge.

Encouraging Regular Practice

Set a daily or weekly routine using one or two apps for 10–15 minutes. Encourage children to aim for personal bests instead of focusing only on scores.

Consistency makes the biggest difference over time and helps children feel prepared and confident.

Final Thoughts

Using maths games that prepare Year 4 students for the Times Table Check makes revision engaging and effective. Tools like Hit the Button, TTRS, and Daily 10 replicate the test style while encouraging fluency and fun.

Introduce these games early in Year 4 and build them into regular maths routines for best results.