6 ways to honor Hispanic Heritage Month in early childhood education
Sept. 15
Hispanic Heritage Month is observed every year from September 15 through October 15. As a Hispanic teacher myself, it is important for me to honor and expose my students to Hispanic culture.
And students are never too young to start learning. My third-grade students enjoy making crafts, like this Day of the Dead activity and looking at picture books that celebrate Hispanic culture.
Here are six ways educators can honor Hispanic Heritage Month in the classroom.
1. Conduct research projects. Assign students a Spanish-speaking country and have them submerge into the culture. Finish the month by having students present their findings in the classroom. A bonus idea would be to encourage students to bring a dish from that country to share with each other.
2. Theme your read-alouds. Make it a point to read books that expose students to Hispanic culture or that are written by Hispanic authors.
3. Bring in guest speakers. Invite members of the community to inspire your students with their stories about their culture or even family traditions.
4. Listen to cultural music. If you are like me and like to have students listen to music while they complete assignments, consider making a culturally appropriate playlist for Hispanic Heritage Month. Or teach your students how to play a traditional song on musical instruments while also teaching them the history behind it.
5. Create a craft. Individual pinatas, papel picado, luminarias and more! There are many options for popular crafts available for free online. Take some time to explore, and see what is age-appropriate for your students.
6. Play loteria. This fun game, which is like BINGO, can be an engaging way to finish the celebration for the month. It can also expose students to Spanish words or phrases.
How do you incorporate Hispanic Heritage Month into the classroom? Let us know at Arizona PBS KIDS on Facebook.
