The Beginner’s Guide to Building Fast Mental Maths Skills (With the Hit the Button Game!)
Are you looking for a fun, effective way to help your child get faster at mental maths? You’re in the right place.
Whether you’re a parent trying to support your child at home, a teacher looking for fresh classroom ideas, or a child wanting to get better at numbers — this guide is for you.
Mental maths is one of the most important skills children develop in Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2. It builds confidence, sharpens memory, and helps children tackle everything from SATs questions to everyday life situations like working out change in a shop.
In this article, you’ll learn exactly what mental maths is, why it matters, and how to practise it step by step. You’ll also discover how tools like Hit the Button — a brilliant interactive maths game — can transform a nervous beginner into a speedy, confident mathematician.
Let’s get started.
What Is Mental Maths?
Mental maths simply means doing maths calculations in your head — without using a calculator, written methods, or even your fingers (at least eventually!).
It includes skills like:
- Quickly recalling that 6 × 7 = 42
- Knowing that 100 − 37 = 63 without writing it down
- Recognising that half of 50 is 25 in an instant
Think of it like learning to read. At first, a child sounds out every letter. With practice, they recognise whole words instantly. Mental maths works the same way — with enough repetition, number facts become automatic.
For children aged 5–11, mental maths covers number bonds, addition and subtraction facts, times tables, division facts, halves, doubles, and place value.
Why Mental Maths Matters (More Than You Think)
It’s Built Into the National Curriculum
The UK National Curriculum requires pupils in KS1 (Years 1–2) and KS2 (Years 3–6) to recall key number facts fluently. By the end of Year 4, children are expected to know all times tables up to 12 × 12 — and they’re tested on this with the Multiplication Tables Check (MTC).
Mental maths isn’t optional. It’s foundational.
It Supports All Other Maths
When a child can recall number facts instantly, they free up mental energy for harder problems. A child who has to work out 7 × 8 step by step will struggle when that same calculation appears inside a long division or fractions question.
Fast mental recall = more brainpower left for solving complex problems.
Real-Life Benefits
Mental maths shows up constantly in daily life:
- Calculating change at a shop
- Sharing sweets equally between friends
- Reading timetables and working out how long until something starts
- Cooking and measuring ingredients
Children who are confident with numbers grow into adults who handle money, time, and problem-solving more easily.
Cognitive Benefits
Research in education consistently shows that regular mental maths practice improves:
- Working memory — the brain’s ability to hold and use information
- Processing speed — how quickly the brain retrieves answers
- Mathematical confidence — children who feel “good at maths” try harder
- Concentration — timed practice builds focus
Step-by-Step Guide to Learning Mental Maths
Step 1: Start With Number Bonds
What are they? Number bonds are pairs of numbers that add up to a target number. The most important ones are number bonds to 10 and to 20.
Example:
- 3 + 7 = 10
- 8 + 2 = 10
- 6 + 14 = 20
Why start here? Because every other mental maths skill builds on this. If a child knows 7 + 3 = 10, they can quickly work out 17 + 3 = 20, or 70 + 30 = 100.
Mini tip: Say the pairs out loud like a song. “One and nine, two and eight, three and seven…” Rhythm helps memory stick.
Step 2: Learn Doubles and Halves
What are they? Doubling means adding a number to itself. Halving means splitting a number into two equal parts.
Example:
- Double 6 = 12
- Double 15 = 30
- Half of 18 = 9
- Half of 50 = 25
Why this matters: Doubles facts lead directly into times tables. If you know double 7 = 14, you know 2 × 7 = 14. Halving is the foundation for understanding fractions and division.
Mini tip: Practise with real objects. “I have 8 grapes. If I halve them, how many does each person get?” Make it physical and visual.
Step 3: Master Times Tables Progressively
What are they? Times tables are sets of multiplication facts. Children in KS2 must know all tables from 1×1 up to 12×12.
The best order to learn them:
- ×2 (doubles)
- ×10 and ×5 (patterns are easy to spot)
- ×4 (double the 2s)
- ×3 and ×6
- ×8 (double the 4s)
- ×7, ×9, ×11, ×12
Example: If you know 4 × 6 = 24, you also know 6 × 4 = 24, 24 ÷ 4 = 6, and 24 ÷ 6 = 4. One fact gives you four answers!
Mini tip: When learning a new table, don’t go in order every time. Mix up the questions to test real recall rather than just sequence memory.
Step 4: Practise Addition and Subtraction Strategies
Key strategies for beginners:
Bridging through 10: To add 8 + 5, think: 8 + 2 = 10, then 10 + 3 = 13. Split the second number to bridge through 10.
Counting on: For 24 + 7, start at 24 and count on: 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31. With practice, children skip to the answer directly.
Near doubles: 6 + 7? Know that double 6 = 12, so 6 + 7 = 13.
Mini tip: Teach one strategy at a time. Overloading a child with methods causes confusion, not speed.
Easy Tricks and Shortcuts for Mental Maths
These are the techniques strong mental mathematicians use — and they’re simple enough for beginners to learn.
The ×9 finger trick: Hold up 10 fingers. To find 9 × 4, fold down your 4th finger. Count fingers to the left (3) and to the right (6). The answer is 36. Works every time for 9 × 1 through 9 × 10.
Multiply by 5 quickly: Multiply by 10, then halve the answer.
- 5 × 8 → 10 × 8 = 80 → 80 ÷ 2 = 40 ✓
Add 9 easily: Add 10, then subtract 1.
- 23 + 9 → 23 + 10 = 33 → 33 − 1 = 32 ✓
Double large numbers: Split them. To double 36: double 30 = 60, double 6 = 12, then 60 + 12 = 72.
The ×11 pattern (up to 9): 11 × any single digit just repeats the digit: 11 × 4 = 44, 11 × 7 = 77.
Subtract by rounding: To find 82 − 29: round 29 up to 30, so 82 − 30 = 52, then add 1 back = 53.
Common Mistakes Beginners Make (And How to Fix Them)
1. Relying Too Long on Fingers
Why it happens: It works at first, so children don’t feel the need to change. Fix: Move to number lines, then mental imagery, then pure recall. Set small goals: “Let’s try this one without fingers.”
2. Learning Tables in Order Only
Why it happens: Chanting in sequence feels safe and comfortable. Fix: Use random questioning. Apps and games like Hit the Button maths are perfect for this because they scramble questions.
3. Skipping the Easier Tables
Why it happens: Children (and parents) often jump straight to the harder ones. Fix: Always cement ×2, ×5, and ×10 before moving on. These tables underpin everything else.
4. Practising in One Big Session
Why it happens: Parents think longer = better. Fix: Short, daily practice (5–10 minutes) is far more effective than one long weekly session. Memory research calls this “spaced repetition.”
5. Only Practising Multiplication — Not Division
Why it happens: Division feels harder, so it gets avoided. Fix: Every time you learn a multiplication fact, practise the related division facts at the same time. They come as a family of four facts.
6. Not Checking for Understanding vs. Memorisation
Why it happens: A child says “I know my 6s” but can only recall them in sequence. Fix: Ask questions out of order. “What is 7 × 6?” after “What is 6 × 8?” Tests real recall.
7. Negative Self-Talk Around Maths
Why it happens: Early difficulty becomes a fixed belief (“I’m just bad at maths”). Fix: Reframe errors as learning. Praise effort, not just correct answers. Progress in maths is always possible with the right practice.
Fun Ways to Practise Mental Maths at Home and in School
At Home
- Times tables in the car: Ask questions on car journeys. Short bursts, no pressure.
- Maths at mealtimes: “There are 4 of us. If I make 24 nuggets, how many each?”
- Flashcard games: Make a pack together — children remember things they helped create.
- Beat your score: Time your child on 10 questions. Next day, try to beat yesterday’s score. Progress feels exciting.
In the Classroom
- Starter questions: Begin every lesson with 5 quick mental maths questions on the board.
- Mini whiteboards: Children write answers simultaneously — no fear of being “wrong” publicly.
- Maths relays: Teams take turns answering questions. Combines exercise and maths.
- Hit the Button times tables competition: Project the game on the board. Children take turns. Class cheers. Engagement shoots up.
Real-Life Applications
- Calculating how many days until a birthday
- Working out how much pocket money is left after spending
- Sharing a pizza into equal slices
- Reading scores in sports and working out differences
Practise Your Mental Maths With Hit the Button
If you want to make practice genuinely enjoyable for children, Hit the Button is one of the most effective tools available.
What is Hit the Button? Hit the Button is an interactive maths game designed specifically for KS1 and KS2 pupils. Players answer mental maths questions by pressing the correct button before the time runs out.
What does it cover?
- Hit the Button times tables (all tables up to ×12)
- Number bonds (to 10, 20, 50, 100)
- Doubling and halving
- Division facts
- Square numbers
Why it works so well:
| Benefit | How the Game Delivers It |
|---|---|
| Speed | Timed rounds push children to answer faster each session |
| Accuracy | Instant feedback shows what’s right and wrong immediately |
| Confidence | Visible score improvements motivate continued practice |
| Independence | Children can practise alone without needing an adult |
| Enjoyment | The game format removes the “this is boring” barrier |
How to get the most from the game:
- Start with a topic your child already finds easy. Early wins build confidence.
- Then move to a topic they find harder. The timed element gently pushes improvement.
- Try to beat the previous score each session — even by one point.
- Play Hit the Button for just 5–10 minutes daily rather than one long session.
The hit the button maths game is completely free to use and accessible on any device. It’s used by millions of children across UK schools — and for good reason.
Practice Questions
Try these mental maths questions. Cover the answers, have a go, then check!
Number Bonds
- What is 6 + ? = 10
- What is 15 + ? = 20
- What is 45 + ? = 100
Doubles and Halves
- Double 17 = ?
- Half of 36 = ?
- Double 45 = ?
Times Tables
- 7 × 8 = ?
- 9 × 6 = ?
- 12 × 11 = ?
Division Facts
- 56 ÷ 7 = ?
- 81 ÷ 9 = ?
- 48 ÷ 6 = ?
Answers:
- 4 | 2. 5 | 3. 55 | 4. 34 | 5. 18 | 6. 90 | 7. 56 | 8. 54 | 9. 132 | 10. 8 | 11. 9 | 12. 8
Expert Tips for Parents and Teachers
For Parents:
- Make it a routine, not a chore. Five minutes before school, or after dinner — consistency beats intensity every time.
- React to mistakes calmly. Children mirror your emotional response. Frustration from a parent makes maths feel threatening.
- Use the language of “yet.” Instead of “you don’t know your 8s,” say “you don’t know your 8s yet.” A small word shift changes everything.
- Celebrate streaks, not perfection. “You’ve practised every day this week!” matters more than getting 10/10.
For Teachers:
- Avoid calling on one child at a time for mental maths answers. It creates performance anxiety. Use whiteboards or thumbs up/down for whole-class response.
- Interleave topics. Rather than drilling ×7 for a whole week, mix ×7 with ×4 and ×9. This strengthens recall significantly.
- Track individual progress. Use a simple grid — which tables can each child answer in under 3 seconds? Data guides your grouping and support.
- Use games with purpose. Hit the Button game is brilliant as a warm-up or targeted intervention, not just a free-choice activity. Set a specific table to practise and check scores.
Advanced Insight: Why Speed Matters in Maths (And How the Brain Learns It)
Here’s something most guides don’t tell you: there’s a significant difference between understanding a maths fact and automating it.
When a child first learns that 6 × 7 = 42, they retrieve it through a series of brain steps — almost like searching through a filing cabinet. That takes time and mental effort.
With enough repetition, something called automaticity develops. The answer bypasses the searching process entirely and fires directly — like flicking a light switch. This is why fluent mathematicians seem to “just know” their tables.
The path from understanding to automaticity requires:
- Correct initial learning (no point automating a wrong answer)
- Spaced repetition (practice over many days, not crammed into one)
- Retrieval practice (actively recalling the answer, not just reading it)
- Slightly increasing challenge (once ×6 is easy, add ×7; comfort doesn’t build speed)
Interactive tools like Hit the Button are specifically designed around retrieval practice — you recall the answer and press it, rather than being shown it. This is exactly the kind of practice the brain needs to build true automaticity.
This is also why the game’s timed format isn’t just for fun. Gentle time pressure activates a different processing mode in the brain — one that encourages faster retrieval over time.
Understanding this is what separates purposeful practice from busy work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age should children start mental maths practice? Children can begin simple number bonds and counting activities from age 4–5 in Reception. Structured mental maths practice typically begins in Year 1 (age 5–6) with number bonds to 10.
What is Hit the Button and is it free? Hit the Button is a free, interactive maths game for KS1 and KS2 pupils. It covers times tables, number bonds, doubles, halves, and division. It’s available on desktop and tablet, and is widely used in UK primary schools.
How long should children practise mental maths each day? 5–10 minutes daily is ideal for primary-aged children. Little and often is far more effective than longer, infrequent sessions. Think of it like reading — a short daily habit beats a weekly marathon.
My child knows their tables in order but not randomly — what should I do? This is extremely common. The fix is to practise out of sequence. Use flashcards with questions in random order, or use the Hit the Button times tables mode, which presents questions randomly to build true recall.
What’s the difference between mental maths and written maths? Mental maths is calculated entirely in the head, without pencil and paper. Written maths involves formal methods like column addition or long multiplication. Both are important, but mental maths underpins everything and should be developed first.
Why does my child freeze when asked a maths question quickly? This is usually a combination of anxiety and underdeveloped automaticity. Remove pressure first — practise in low-stakes ways (games, car journeys). Consistent daily practice gradually builds the speed and confidence they need.
Are there other skills I should practise alongside mental maths? Yes — number bonds, times tables, place value, and mental addition and subtraction all connect tightly. You might also explore practising number bonds or division facts alongside your times tables work for a more complete skill set.
Conclusion
Mental maths is a skill — and like all skills, it improves with the right kind of practice.
Start with the foundations: number bonds, doubles, and halves. Build toward times tables with a clear, progressive plan. Use shortcuts and tricks to make patterns stick. And avoid the common mistake of practising the same thing the same way every day.
Most importantly, make it enjoyable. When children feel successful and engaged — whether through games, real-life challenges, or friendly competition — they practise more willingly, and that’s when real progress happens.
Hit the Button is one of the most effective free tools available for exactly this purpose. Use it daily, even for just five minutes, and you’ll see a genuine difference in speed, accuracy, and — most importantly — confidence.
Numbers aren’t scary. They just need to become familiar. Start today, practise a little every day, and watch those maths facts become second nature.
Want to keep building? Explore our guides on number bonds, times tables tricks, and division facts for even more ways to strengthen your child’s mental maths skills.