Most kids dislike rote learning. Memorizing math facts is a necessary part of elementary math, but it does not have to be boring. Flash cards are "old school." Children can practice math facts in a variety of different ways, from using manipulatives to commercially-published games. On the web, there are free and subscription-based sites that engage kids in fun, interactive drills that help them master their facts.
Different kids have different learning styles. Teachers must be prepared to reteach using another mode of instruction when children do not understand. The visual learner, for example, may need to see steps written out, in detail, on the board. A kinesthetic learner may need to hold math materials in hand and manipulate them to solve problems.
Good questioning techniques will help teachers understand where the child is having difficulty. Sometimes a student may not understand what is being asked, particularly when working a word problem. For example, the student may be unsure of which operation to use. The student may know which operation is required but be unable to perform it, such as when adding or subtracting multidigit numbers where regrouping is required. By understanding where the disconnect occurs, teachers can target remediation to address the student's needs.
Teachers can make math relevant by incorporating activities where math is needed. Students can measure objects in the classroom, the school and outdoors using rulers, yardsticks and non-\standard units of measurement such as their own hands or feet. They can participate in class projects such as cooking or making a quilt, where they not only measure but use fractions. Teachers can invite speakers from the community such as bankers and construction workers to tell how they use math on the job.