Monster Multiplication: A New Multisensory and Mindful Approach to Long Multiplication

Long multiplication is often one of the most challenging math skills for elementary and middle school students to learn and remember. Many children struggle to keep steps in order, line up numbers correctly, and stay focused throughout the process. That is why I created Monster Multiplication, a multisensory, engaging, and mindful approach that helps students understand and master long multiplication with confidence and ease.

This resource is designed to support all types of learners, including those with learning differences, ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, executive functioning weaknesses, visual-spatial challenges, and fine motor difficulties. Rather than relying on rote memorization, Monster Multiplication guides students through the process in a way that is visual, playful, structured, and easy to retain.

What Is the Monster Multiplication Approach?

Monster Multiplication is a 46-page downloadable PDF that breaks long multiplication into clear, step-by-step instructions. The resource includes scaffolded lessons and printable practice worksheets for multiplying:

• 1 by 2 digits

• 2 by 2 digits

• 3 by 3 digits

Students learn long multiplication through multisensory instruction, mindfulness strategies, visual cues, and memory hooks that make the process stick. The activities are designed for use in classrooms, small-group instruction, tutoring sessions, math intervention, and homeschool environments.

Why Monster Multiplication Works for Diverse Learners

This approach goes far beyond traditional worksheets. It employs powerful cognitive learning strategies that support attention, memory, organization, and processing — making it ideal for students who require more than just repeated drills.

If learning the times tables is hard, come learn how to turn frustrating rote memorization into memorable fun! Click the image below:

What Features Make Monster Multiplication Successful:

Student-Friendly Monster Characters

Whimsical monster guides teach and reinforce each multiplication step, reducing anxiety and turning learning into a fun adventure.

Color-Coded and Illustrated Steps

The process of long multiplication is broken down into color-coded visuals that help students follow, remember, and independently apply each step.

Multisensory and Mindful Learning

This approach engages visual, auditory, tactile, and kinesthetic modalities, helping students strengthen working memory and stay mentally present as they solve problems.

Rhymes, Games, and Memory Tricks

Catchy ditties, interactive activities, and playful practice sheets reinforce learning so that students remember long multiplication long after the lesson ends.

Organizational Support for Math Success

A built-in grid system helps students line up numbers correctly, which is especially helpful for children with dysgraphia, ADHD, dyscalculia, or visual-spatial challenges.

By blending structure with creativity, Monster Multiplication helps students feel calm, confident, and capable when tackling long multiplication. With repeated use, learners develop not only stronger math skills but also improved executive functioning, problem-solving, and perseverance.

What are My Strategies for the Multiplication Tables?

I also offer a multisensory and fun approach to learning the multiplication tables!!  CLICK HERE to learn more.

Cheers, Dr. Erica Warren