Write the times tables on 3-by-5 index cards, with the question on the front and the answer on the back. Divide them into groups; the zero times tables in one pile (0x1, 0x2....0x12), the one times tables in another, and so on.
Skip the zero and one times tables because they are so easy. Zero times anything is zero and one times anything is the multiplier.
Create index cards outlining the times tables beyond one, beginning with two and ending with nine.
Dispense with the counters and start trying to do the problems in your head. Again, start with just one table such as two or three, then move on once you've mastered it.
Continue practicing on the index cards until the tables are memorized.