3 times table song ideas

Quick answer

You can make a fun 3 times table song by using simple rhythms, repeated phrases, and familiar tunes. You can sing it with clapping, dancing, or even make up your own words to help remember the numbers.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will be able to create your own 3 times table song that helps you remember the numbers from 0 to 36.

• You can sing the 3 times table from 0 x 3 to 12 x 3.
• You can use rhythm and repetition to help you learn.
• You can make up your own words to a familiar tune.
• You can share your song with a friend or family member.

Why this matters

Learning your times tables is like learning a secret code that helps you solve puzzles quickly. When you know the 3 times table, you can easily work out how many apples are in 5 bags if each bag has 3 apples, or how many legs 7 spiders have. Songs help you remember numbers faster than just writing them down, and they make learning fun!

When you're older, you'll use multiplication in maths, science, cooking, and even music. Knowing your 3 times table helps you do bigger maths problems with confidence.

How it works

Creating a 3 times table song is simple:

1. Start with a tune you already know, like "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star" or "Happy Birthday".
2. Write down the 3 times table numbers in order: 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24, 27, 30, 33, 36.
3. Change the numbers into words or phrases that match the rhythm of your tune.
4. Try singing it out loud, then add claps or movements to help remember.
5. Practice it every day until you can sing it without looking at the words.

Examples you can see

Here’s a simple example of how to turn the 3 times table into a song:

Try singing these words to the tune of "Row, Row, Row Your Boat" or any tune you know. You can even make up silly words like "Three, six, nine, twelve, fifteen, eighteen, twenty-one, twenty-four, twenty-seven, thirty, thirty-three, thirty-six" to make it more fun!

Try it as a mini adventure

Adventure: The 3 Times Table Song Challenge!

You are a music explorer who has discovered a magical music box that only plays when you sing the 3 times table in a special way. You must create your own song to unlock the music box!

1. First, choose a tune you like. It could be a nursery rhyme, a pop song, or even a song you hum to yourself.
2. Next, write the numbers 0 to 36 in order, but think of them as groups of three: 0, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24, 27, 30, 33, 36.
3. Now, turn these numbers into words that fit your tune. For example, if your tune is "If You're Happy and You Know It", you could sing:

• “If you’re happy and you know it, clap for three!”
• “If you’re happy and you know it, clap for six!”
• “If you’re happy and you know it, clap for nine!”
• Keep going up to twelve groups of three.

Try singing your song with your family or friends. See if they can guess what number you are singing next!

Common mistakes

• Mistake: Trying to remember all the numbers at once without a tune or rhythm.
  Why it happens: Children may feel overwhelmed when learning many new numbers at once.
  Fix: Start with just a few numbers and use a simple tune to help remember them.
• Mistake: Singing the numbers in the wrong order.
  Why it happens: Confusion between multiplication and counting.
  Fix: Practice counting in 3s using fingers or objects before trying to sing the song.
• Mistake: Not matching the numbers to the rhythm of the song.
  Why it happens: Children may rush or forget to listen to the beat.
  Fix: Count out loud first, then match the numbers to the beat of the tune.

Parent and carer guide

As a parent or carer, you can help your child create their 3 times table song by:

1. Choosing a familiar tune together, like "Happy Birthday" or "Baa, Baa, Black Sheep".
2. Writing the 3 times table numbers on paper or a whiteboard.
3. Letting your child pick words that make sense to them, like “three, six, nine, twelve” or “three little birds, six little birds, nine little birds”.
4. Encouraging them to sing the song with claps, jumps, or hand movements.
5. Practicing together every day for a few minutes to build confidence.

Remember, it’s not about getting everything perfect. It’s about having fun and learning together. If your child gets stuck, help them by singing along or counting on their fingers. Celebrate their progress!

Practice questions

1. What is 3 x 4?
2. What is 3 x 7?
3. What is 3 x 10?
4. What is 3 x 12?
5. How many groups of three are in 21?

Answers:

1. 12
2. 21
3. 30
4. 36
5. 7

FAQ

Why should I learn the 3 times table?

Learning the 3 times table helps you solve problems faster and makes math easier in school and in daily life. For example, if you’re buying 6 packs of pencils and each pack has 3 pencils, you can quickly work out that you have 18 pencils in total.

Can I use any song for the 3 times table?

Yes! You can use any song you know or like. The best songs are ones you already know well, so it’s easier to remember the numbers.

What if I forget a number in my song?

That’s okay! It’s normal to forget sometimes. Just go back to counting in 3s or use your fingers to help you remember. Practice makes progress!

How long should I practice my song?

Try practicing for about 5–10 minutes every day. You don’t need to learn it all at once. Just keep singing it, and soon it will become easy!

Can I make a rap instead of a song?

Yes, absolutely! A rap is a fun way to learn. You can use a beat or rhythm and make up words to match the numbers. Try saying the 3 times table in a fun, fast way!