In the early years of primary school, maths skills grow at lightning speed. Between Reception and Year 2, children move from counting objects to solving addition, subtraction, and even early multiplication problems. But here’s the challenge: without regular, engaging practice, these skills can fade just as quickly as they’re learned.
Play Hit The Button Now ▶️That’s why Hit The Button Maths is a game‑changer for parents and teachers. Our free, quick‑fire maths games are designed for ages 5–11, perfectly aligned with the UK National Curriculum, and proven to make learning fast, fun, and effective. Whether it’s number bonds, doubles, halves, or times tables, we turn practice into play — and play into progress.
Why Game‑Based Practice Matters in the Early Years
Curriculum Alignment
The UK National Curriculum for EYFS and KS1 emphasises:
- Counting reliably to 20 and beyond
- Understanding addition and subtraction within 20
- Recognising number bonds to 10 and 20
- Beginning multiplication and division concepts
Game‑based learning supports these goals by:
- Reinforcing skills through repetition
- Providing instant feedback
- Encouraging short, daily practice sessions
Did You Know? A 2023 Education Endowment Foundation study found that game‑based learning tools can increase engagement by up to 80% compared to traditional worksheets.
Why It Works for Young Learners
- Short attention spans are matched with quick, timed challenges
- Bright visuals and sounds keep motivation high
- Safe, low‑pressure environment encourages risk‑taking and learning from mistakes
Top Hit The Button Math Games for Early Years
We’ve designed specific game modes to help Reception and KS1 pupils master core skills.
| Game Mode | Skill Focus | Age Group | Difficulty | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number Bonds to 10 | Pairs that make 10 | Reception–Y2 | Beginner | Early addition |
| Number Bonds to 20 | Pairs that make 20 | Y1–Y2 | Intermediate | Addition fluency |
| Doubles | Doubling numbers to 20 | Y1–Y2 | Beginner–Medium | Mental agility |
| Halves | Halving numbers to 20 | Y1–Y2 | Beginner–Medium | Division concepts |
| Times Tables (×2, ×5, ×10) | Early multiplication facts | Y2 | Medium | Multiplication intro |
Why These Work
- Number Bonds: Build instant recall for addition/subtraction
- Doubles & Halves: Strengthen mental strategies for multiplication/division
- Times Tables: Prepare Year 2 pupils for KS2 multiplication goals
Teacher Tip: Introduce Number Bonds to 10 in Reception, then progress to Number Bonds to 20 in Year 1. By Year 2, pupils can confidently tackle early times tables.
How to Use Hit The Button Maths for Early Years Learning
For Parents
- Set a routine: 5 minutes a day is enough to see progress
- Play together: Model enthusiasm and celebrate small wins
- Link to real life: Use snacks, toys, or coins to reinforce game concepts
For Teachers
- Starter activity: Begin lessons with a 2‑minute quick‑fire challenge
- Group play: Use the interactive whiteboard for whole‑class engagement
- Differentiation: Assign easier modes to beginners, harder ones to confident learners
Parent Tip: If your child struggles with a concept, focus on that one game mode for a week before moving on.
Daily Practice Blueprint
| Activity | Time Needed | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Number Bonds to 10 | 2 mins | Core recall |
| Doubles | 2 mins | Mental agility |
| Halves | 2 mins | Division link |
| Times Tables (×2, ×5, ×10) | 2 mins | Multiplication intro |
Benefits for Parents and Teachers
Why Parents Love It
- Free and accessible — no sign‑up required
- Matches school learning objectives
- Builds confidence without pressure
Why Teachers Recommend It
- Curriculum‑aligned — supports EYFS and KS1 goals
- Time‑saving — no prep required
- Versatile — works on whiteboards, tablets, and laptops
Did You Know? The National Foundation for Educational Research found that 10 minutes of daily mental maths practice can improve recall speed by up to 70% in primary pupils.
Extra Resources for Early Years Maths
Pair Hit The Button Maths with:
- BBC Bitesize Early Maths — interactive lessons
- NRICH Early Years Maths — problem‑solving activities
- Twinkl EYFS Maths Resources — printable games
Final Thoughts: Play, Learn, Repeat
Early years maths success is built on confidence, fluency, and fun. With Hit The Button Math, children can:
- Practise daily in short bursts
- Build strong number sense
- Enjoy learning through fast‑paced, engaging games