The diversity of Anne Arundel County is one of the many community jewels AACPS is appreciative of.
We are grateful for the contributions from the community in helping celebrate the many cultures that are present and embraced.
Dr. Almaris Alonso-Claudio is the owner of Thoughts and Wonder LLC, which encourages and helps youth authors write books in their own voice. Dr. Alonso, an AACPS parent, shares a few suggestions about opportunities to celebrate Hispanic Heritage this month and every month.
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: Engaging Activities for Children at School
Hispanic Heritage Month, observed from September 15th to October 15th, is an excellent opportunity to celebrate and educate children about the rich cultural contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities. By incorporating engaging activities into the school curriculum, educators can foster cultural awareness, appreciation, and understanding among students. In this essay, we will explore a variety of activities that can be organized during Hispanic Heritage Month to engage children at school.
1. Cultural Presentations: Invite Hispanic/Latinx community members, parents, or local artists to give presentations on their cultural heritage, including traditions, music, dance, and art. These interactive sessions can provide students with a firsthand experience of Hispanic culture, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation.
2. Storytelling and Literature: Introduce children to famous Hispanic authors, folktales, and children’s literature. Read aloud from books by authors such as Pat Mora, Carmen Lomas Garza, or Gary Soto. Discuss the themes, traditions, and values portrayed in the stories, encouraging students to reflect on the cultural significance.
3. Art and Crafts: Engage students in hands-on art activities inspired by Hispanic culture. For example, they can create papel picado (colorful paper cutouts), make their own piñatas, or explore traditional weaving techniques. Encourage them to discuss the symbolism and significance behind their creations.
4. Music and Dance: Expose children to different genres of Hispanic music, such as salsa, merengue, mariachi, or flamenco. Organize dance workshops or performances, teaching students basic steps and movements. Encourage them to appreciate the rhythm and energy of Hispanic music and dance forms.
5. Traditional Food: Organize a Hispanic food day where children can bring and share traditional Hispanic dishes. Encourage students to research and learn about the culinary traditions of different Hispanic countries. This activity promotes cultural exchange and allows children to experience the diverse flavors of Hispanic cuisine.
6. Research Projects: Assign research projects that delve into the contributions of Hispanic individuals in various fields, including science, art, literature, sports, and politics. Students can present their findings in the form of posters, presentations, or short speeches, highlighting the achievements and impact of Hispanic figures throughout history.
7. Virtual Field Trips: Take advantage of technology to virtually explore famous Hispanic landmarks, museums, or historical sites. Use online resources to visit places like the Mayan ruins in Mexico, the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador, or the architectural wonders of Barcelona. Discuss the historical and cultural significance of these places. 8. Language and Vocabulary: Introduce students to basic Spanish vocabulary and phrases, incorporating them into daily classroom routines. Teach them simple greetings, colors, numbers, or traditional songs in Spanish. This activity helps students develop an appreciation for language diversity and opens the door to future language learning opportunities.
Hispanic Heritage Month provides a valuable opportunity to celebrate the contributions and cultural diversity of Hispanic and Latinx communities. By incorporating engaging activities into the school curriculum, educators can foster a sense of appreciation, understanding, and respect among students. Through cultural presentations, literature, art, music, food, research projects, virtual field trips, and language learning, children can develop a broader perspective and gain a deeper appreciation for the Hispanic heritage that enriches their communities.
We look forward to receiving your contributions about how we can enhance the way we connect and celebrate all of the diverse communities of AACPS.
Explore a partnership with AACPS, send your information or question to: DevOffice@aacps.org
Louis Nesbitt, BCD Office
