I use an area model for long multiplication, too. For example, to do 43x62, I'll draw a rectangle to multiply 2x43, which is 86. Then I'll draw another for 43x60. Then I'll add the two answers together. After I've done that a few times, the kids are ready to learn long multiplication.

I've talked to tons of teachers - my principal was one - who figured out elementary math concepts at in-services that were supposed to be teaching them how to teach those concepts. They'd never really understood it before. So you're in good company. :)