Roman Numerals 1 to 20 Chart for Kids

Numbers can be written in different ways. Today, we commonly use digits like 1, 2, 3, and 4, but long ago, people used a different system called Roman numerals. Roman numerals are still seen today on clocks, in book chapters, movie titles, and special events. Learning Roman numerals 1 to 20 is a great way for children to explore number history while strengthening their number recognition skills. In this guide, we will understand what Roman numerals are, how they work, the Roman numbers 1 to 20 chart, simple rules, examples, memory tricks, and fun practice ideas.

What Are Roman Numerals?

Roman numerals are a number system that started in ancient Rome. Instead of digits, this system uses letters from the Latin alphabet to represent numbers. The basic Roman numeral symbols are:

I = 1
V = 5
X = 10
L = 50
C = 100
D = 500
M = 1000

For Roman numerals 1 to 20, we mainly use I, V, and X. Children enjoy Roman numerals because they look like codes made from letters.

Read More – Roman Numbers 1 to 100 for Kids

Why Should Kids Learn Roman Numerals?

Learning Roman numerals helps children:

Understand number history
Improve number recognition
Develop pattern skills
Read clock faces with Roman numbers
Recognise chapter numbers in books
Identify the event years written in Roman style

It also builds curiosity and makes math more interesting.

Basic Rules of Roman Numerals

Before learning the Roman numerals 1 to 20 chart, children should know a few simple rules.

1. Rule 1 — Addition Rule

When a smaller or equal numeral follows a larger one, you add them.

Example: VI = 5 + 1 = 6

2. Rule 2 — Repetition Rule

A numeral can be repeated up to three times.

Example: III = 3, XXX = 30

3. Rule 3 — Subtraction Rule

When a smaller numeral comes before a larger one, subtract it.

Example: IV = 5 − 1 = 4, IX = 10 − 1 = 9

These three rules help form all Roman numerals from 1 to 20.

Roman Numerals 1 to 20 Chart

1 — I
2 — II
3 — III
4 — IV
5 — V
6 — VI
7 — VII
8 — VIII
9 — IX
10 — X
11 — XI
12 — XII
13 — XIII
14 — XIV
15 — XV
16 — XVI
17 — XVII
18 — XVIII
19 — XIX
20 — XX

Read More – XXV in Roman Numerals

How Roman Numerals 1 to 20 Are Formed

Let’s understand how some key numbers are formed.

1. Numbers 1 to 3

Just repeat I:

I, II, III

2. Number 4

Use the subtraction rule:

IV = 5 − 1

3. Numbers 6 to 8

Add I after V:

VI = 6
VII = 7
VIII = 8

4. Number 9

IX = 10 − 1

5. Numbers 11 to 13

Add I after X:

XI, XII, XIII

6. Number 14

XIV = 10 + (5 − 1)

7. Number 19

XIX = 10 + (10 − 1)

Roman Numerals in Daily Life

Children often see Roman numerals in:

Wall clocks
Book chapters
Movie sequels
Sports events
Building cornerstones
Monarch names (like kings and queens)

Examples:

Clock shows: IV = 4
Chapter XII = Chapter 12
Event Year MMXX = 2020

Recognising Roman numbers helps children read these correctly.

Roman Numerals Practice Examples

Let’s convert some numbers.

1. Convert to Roman Numerals

7 = VII
12 = XII
15 = XV
18 = XVIII
20 = XX

2. Convert to Numbers

IX = 9
XIV = 14
XVI = 16
XIX = 19

Practice both directions for better learning.

Common Mistakes Children Make

Students often:

Write IIII instead of IV
Write VIV instead of IX
Repeat symbols more than three times
Forget the subtraction rule

Fun Activities to Learn Roman Numerals

Try these classroom or home activities:

Roman numeral flashcards
Roman clock reading
Matching number games
Chart coloring activity
Roman numeral bingo
Number conversion race
Roman numeral puzzles

Learning through play improves memory.

Read More – Teaching Kids About Roman Numerals

How EuroKids Helps Children Learn Roman Numerals Clearly

Early number systems, like Roman numerals, are introduced through visual charts, matching games, and number storytelling activities. Children learn Roman numerals using clocks, flashcards, and pattern-building exercises so they understand how symbols form numbers. Teachers connect Roman numbers to everyday objects like clocks and book chapters, making the learning meaningful and memorable. Instead of memorising blindly, children explore number patterns and symbol rules through guided play and visual learning tools.

Conclusion

Roman numerals are an interesting and historical way to represent numbers using letters instead of digits. Learning Roman numerals 1 to 20 helps children recognise patterns, understand number systems, and connect math with history and daily life. With simple rules like addition and subtraction patterns, children can quickly learn to read and write Roman numbers. Using charts, memory tricks, games, and regular practice makes Roman numerals easy and enjoyable. When taught through interactive methods and discovery-based learning, children develop both understanding and curiosity.

To explore more learning ideas, simple explanations, and early childhood resources, parents can visit the EuroKids Blog. Those who wish to understand the preschool journey better or explore enrolment options can find complete information on the EuroKids Preschool Admission Page, where learning is designed to be joyful, engaging, and child-friendly.