It's National Hispanic Heritage Month!
National Hispanic Heritage Month – also known as National Latinx / Hispanic Heritage Month – is observed each year from mid-September to mid-October. Celebrations honor the achievements, contributions, and cultures of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. According to the latest U.S. Census data, “Hispanic” people are the largest minority group in the United States. With so many people, and so much variety to celebrate, we’ve put together some ideas:
Movie Night
Kids love to watch – and sing along with! – movies that feature the amazing music of Latin America. Try:
- Encanto – A Disney/Pixar musical that celebrates Colombian culture. It’s full of magical realism and the beauty of the natural world, as well as key themes, are acceptance, forgiveness, and community. (ages 6+)
- Coco – An Oscar®-winning Disney/Pixar animation that explores the Mexican traditions of Día de los muertos (Day of the Dead), and includes messaging around family, gratitude, and perseverance. (ages 7+)
- Vivo – A Netflix original that showcases Cuban culture and music. Themes include courage, empathy, and the power of love. (ages 6+)
Game Night
Family games are the best! Have you tried these ones?
- Lotería (a.k.a. Mexican bingo!) is not only fun to play, but a great way to learn and practice Spanish vocabulary. Try this Google Doodle version of Lotería from 2019!
- El Dominó (dominoes) is popular in Puerto Rico, Cuba, and the Dominican Republic and provides lots of counting practice (in English or Spanish).
- Veo Veo (“I Spy” in English) is great because there’s no equipment required, just the ability to speak and understand some Spanish.
Story Time
Time for bed? Happily, there is no shortage of children’s books that provide a taste of Latin American food and cuisine. Try:
- Carmela Full of Wishes By Matt de la Peña (ages 3-6)
- Last Stop on Market Street *Winner of the Newbery Medal* By Matt de la Peña (ages 3-6): Try our Cooks + Books recipe!
- Tamalitos by Jorge Argueta (ages 3-6)
- What Can You Do with a Paleta? by Carmen Tafolla (ages 3-6)
- The Cazuela That the Farm Maiden Stirred by Samantha R. Vamos (ages 5-11)
And Arguably our Favorite Category… Food!
And as far as meals to prepare during Hispanic / Latinx Heritage Month, OF COURSE, we have suggestions! Try:
And our favorite English/Spanish language joke!
- How does milk introduce itself in Spanish? Soy milk
¡Buen provecho y buen mes!
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