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2 times table chants and rhythms

Original chant, clap and beat ideas for helping children remember the 2 times table without copying any existing song.

Quick answer

You can learn the 2 times table by clapping, chanting, and moving to rhythms that match the numbers. These songs and beats help you remember 2 × 1 = 2, 2 × 2 = 4, and so on up to 2 × 12 = 24.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will be able to sing or chant the 2 times table from 0 to 12 and clap or move to the rhythm of each answer. Success signs:
  • You can say the 2 times table out loud from 0 × 2 to 12 × 2
  • You can clap or tap a rhythm for each answer
  • You can count in 2s by singing or chanting
  • You can use your rhythm to help remember what 2 × 7 or 2 × 11 is

Why this matters

Learning the 2 times table helps you count faster and solve problems more easily. When you know your 2 times table, you can quickly work out how many legs a group of animals have, how many wheels a row of cars has, or how many socks are in a drawer with 5 pairs. Clapping and singing makes it easier to remember because your body helps your brain remember. This is also great for games, music, and even dancing!

How it works

The 2 times table is all about counting in 2s. When you multiply 2 by a number, you are just adding 2 that many times. For example:
  • 2 × 1 = 2 (one group of 2)
  • 2 × 2 = 4 (two groups of 2)
  • 2 × 3 = 6 (three groups of 2)
You can make this fun by clapping or tapping the rhythm of each answer. For example, 2 × 3 = 6, so you could tap 6 times. 2 × 5 = 10, so you could tap 10 times.

Examples you can see

Here is the 2 times table with each answer shown as a rhythm or beat:
2 × Answer Rhythm or Beat
0 0 Tap once, then stop
1 2 Clap once, then tap once
2 4 Clap twice, then tap twice
3 6 Clap three times, then tap three times
4 8 Clap four times, then tap four times
5 10 Clap five times, then tap five times
6 12 Clap six times, then tap six times
7 14 Clap seven times, then tap seven times
8 16 Clap eight times, then tap eight times
9 18 Clap nine times, then tap nine times
10 20 Clap ten times, then tap ten times
11 22 Clap eleven times, then tap eleven times
12 24 Clap twelve times, then tap twelve times

Try it as a mini adventure

Let’s go on a rhythm adventure! You are a drummer who needs to play the 2 times table rhythm for your band.
  • 1st time: Tap 0 times (no rhythm)
  • 2nd time: Clap once, then tap once (2)
  • 3rd time: Clap twice, then tap twice (4)
  • 4th time: Clap three times, then tap three times (6)
  • 5th time: Clap four times, then tap four times (8)
  • 6th time: Clap five times, then tap five times (10)
  • 7th time: Clap six times, then tap six times (12)
  • 8th time: Clap seven times, then tap seven times (14)
  • 9th time: Clap eight times, then tap eight times (16)
  • 10th time: Clap nine times, then tap nine times (18)
  • 11th time: Clap ten times, then tap ten times (20)
  • 12th time: Clap eleven times, then tap eleven times (22)
  • 13th time: Clap twelve times, then tap twelve times (24)
Can you keep the rhythm going? Try it with your hands or a drumstick, and see if you can make it faster each time!

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: Thinking 2 × 4 = 8, but forgetting 2 × 4 = 8. Why it happens: You might be counting too fast or not matching your rhythm to the number. Fix: Count slowly and make sure each beat matches the answer.
  • Mistake: Clapping 3 times for 2 × 2 = 4. Why it happens: You might mix up the rhythm with the number. Fix: Remember that 2 × 2 = 4, so you need to clap 2 times and tap 2 times.
  • Mistake: Saying 2 × 6 = 13 instead of 12. Why it happens: You might be adding one too many. Fix: Count in 2s slowly and double-check your answer.

Parent and carer guide

To help your child learn the 2 times table chants and rhythms:
  • Start by clapping the rhythm together. Say the numbers out loud while you clap.
  • Use a simple beat or drumming sound to help your child count in 2s.
  • Try making a game out of it: say a number, and let your child show the rhythm for that number.
  • Practice 2 × 3 = 6 by clapping 3 times and tapping 3 times.
  • Don’t worry if they get it wrong at first. It’s normal to make mistakes while learning!
  • Keep it fun and short – 5-10 minutes of rhythm practice is great.

Practice questions

  1. What is 2 × 4?
  2. How many claps and taps for 2 × 7?
  3. What is 2 × 10?
  4. How many times do you tap for 2 × 5?
  5. What is 2 × 12?

Answers:

  1. 8
  2. Clap 7 times, tap 7 times
  3. 20
  4. 5 times
  5. 24

FAQ

How can I remember the 2 times table? A: Use clapping, tapping, or moving to the rhythm of each answer. This helps your brain remember better. Can I use songs to learn the 2 times table? A: Yes! You can make up your own song or use a simple tune to sing the numbers in 2s. What if I can't keep the rhythm? A: That’s okay! Start by counting slowly, then try to match your rhythm to the number. How long should I practice? A: 5 to 10 minutes of rhythm practice is perfect for young learners. Can I do this with my friends? A: Yes! You can all clap or tap together to make it more fun and easier to remember.