Introduce the concept of the symbol "times" as another way of saying "groups of." For example, 4 x 2 can be interpreted as four groups of two.
Teach the first-gradere about the commutative multiplication property, which states that the order of the numbers does not affect the product. For example, four times two will have the same answer as two times four.
Associate multiplication with repeated addition. For example, since four times two means four "groups of" two, you can calculate the same answer by adding the number "2" four times.
Teach your first-graders about the concept of multiplying a number by one or zero. Each number that is multiplied by zero will equal zero, while any number multiplied by one will be equal to itself.
Reinforce the multiplication table by implementing creative learning techniques, such as creating flash cards, playing multiplication games and posting a few problems on the board before each class day. Through repetition and familiarity, your first-graders will be able to solve any equation on the multiplication table.