Start with two small numbers, such as 4 and 3. Explain you will be grouping these two numbers together to solve the math problem of 4 times 3.
Draw four medium sized circles on a blank piece of paper. Make three vertical lines in each circle. Have them count all the lines in the four circles together. They should come up with the answer 12. If they don't, count with them until they understand the answer.
Explain to your student that four groups with three things in each group is the same as saying 4 times 3. Tell your student the answer to the math problem is 12, just as the answer to the counting problem they just did is 12. Explain that this strategy can be used with all the numbers, even higher ones if the steps are broken down.
Direct the students to create their own math problem with two numbers, such as 3 and 2. Ask them to show you how they would get the answer using the above strategy. Be sure to guide them along the way if they require assistance.