Children’s Games – Then and Now

In ancient Latium, long before video games or cartoons existed, Roman children found joy in simple, creative ways. Much like kids today, they loved to stay active and use their imagination while playing with friends, pets, and handmade toys.

Toys and Games from the Roman Times

Children played with dolls made from wax or clay and raced around on small carts pulled by goats, ponies, or even dogs. They flew handmade kites in the breeze and used stilts to walk taller than their friends. Hobbyhorses, hoops, and swings were among their favorite ways to pass time. The seesaw was also a popular playground staple.

Board games and ball games kept their minds and hands busy. Kids enjoyed leapfrog, tic-tac-toe, and a game similar to modern-day jacks called knucklebones, played with small animal bones. Another favorite was “odd and even,” where one child hid stones in a hand and the other guessed if the number was odd or even.

Staying Active and Adventurous

Physical play was just as important as creative games. Roman children practiced lifting weights, played war games with wooden swords, and jumped rope with friends. These activities helped them build strength and coordination while having fun outdoors.

Pets Were Part of the Family

Pets were treasured companions in Roman homes. Dogs, birds, monkeys, and cats kept children company and added joy to their daily lives—just like today’s pets.

What Has Changed and What Hasn’t

Although the materials have changed—clay and wax dolls became plastic, and jacks are now made of shiny metal—the spirit of play remains the same. Roman kids loved fun and friendship just as much as children do now. From rolling hoops to tic-tac-toe, many of their games have timeless appeal.

Learn More Through Dinolingo

If your child is excited to explore the Latin language and ancient Roman culture, Dinolingo offers engaging lessons designed just for kids. With interactive stories, songs, and games, children can explore languages like Latin in a fun and meaningful way. You can discover how it works at Dinolingo.