Celebrated from September 15 to October, National Hispanic Heritage Month honors the rich cultural heritage and extraordinary contributions of Hispanic Americans from Central and Latin America, Spain, Mexico, and the Caribbean.
This collection of exciting lessons, book ideas, games, songs, and Latin history guides will bring the richness of these cultures alive for young learners. Have a blast learning about the differences between cultures, studying acclaimed authors, and enjoying Hispanic music and food!
1. Compare Cultural Holidays
By understanding how El Dia de Los Muertos differs from Halloween, students will better appreciate the richness of Latin American culture. After researching the traditions, music, and history of these holidays, they can create an altarpiece in honor of someone who has passed on.
Learn more: Kennedy Center
2. Discover the Contributions of Notable Hispanic Americans
Covering a wide range of fields, from science to sports to politics, students will discover the inspiring contributions made by notable Hispanic Americans. The list includes Lin-Manual Miranda, Oscar De La Hoya, Rita Moreno, Ellen Ochoa, and many others.
Learn more: Twinkl
3. Read and Discuss Poems by Latin Voices
This poetry sampler is broad and inclusive, including both established and up-and-coming poets. The collection is a great starting point for discussing language, history, class, and society.
Learn more: Poetry Foundation
4. Learn about Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor
Students are sure to be inspired by the story of Sonia Sotomayor, the first Hispanic woman of color to join the Supreme Court. As they read and answer the accompanying comprehension questions, they will discover how she used the challenges in her childhood to strengthen her ability to be a good lawyer and judge.
Learn more: Education.com
5. Design Latin Travel Guides
After researching a Spanish-speaking country of their choice, students will have plenty of fun designing a travel brochure highlighting all the sites their destination has to offer.
Learn more: Education World
6. Cook up Some Hispanic Dishes: No-Bake Recipe Booklet
With delicious recipes for pupusas, enchiladas, rice milk, and more, students will love learning about Hispanic culture through the universal medium of tasty food. This recipe booklet also includes a section for students to share their reviews of each dish.
Learn more: Twinkl
7. Put Your Own Twist on Classic Loteria Cards
Similar to bingo, Lotería Mexicana is a game of chance played throughout Mexico and the United States. After reading the riddles and puns for each picture card, students can let their creativity run wild by interpreting each card in their own unique style.
Learn more: Smithsonian American Art Museum
8. Listen and Dance to Salsa Music
After learning about the history and characteristics of salsa music, students can practice identifying the clave beat in a selection of salsa songs. What better way to get them singing, dancing, and feeling the Latin rhythm?
Learn more: Study.com
9. Learn About Mexican Holidays
Mexico is home to so many rich traditions and celebrations that it can be easy for young learners to get them mixed up. This lesson helps them understand the differences between Dia de los Muertos, Dia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, Grito de Dolores or Mexican Independence Day, and Cinco de Mayo.
Learn more: National Endowment for the Humanities
10. Watch Pixar's Coco
Coco tells the heart-warming story of Miguel, whose dream of becoming a musician is hampered by his family's ban on music. Steeped in Mexican culture and folklore, this one is sure to be a crowd-pleaser! The accompanying questions will help students connect the dots between the screen and classroom learning.
Learn more: Teachers Pay Teachers
11. Learn About Selena Quintanilla
This read-aloud features the life story of Selena, who began her singing career at quinceañeras and went on to fill entire stadiums with adoring fans.
Learn more: Amazon
12. Watch and Discuss a Video about Sylvia Mendez
Sylvia Mendez is an American civil rights activist and nurse who was forbidden to attend a public elementary school because it was reserved for white students. Her family fought to end racial segregation in California, paving the way for equality across the country.
Learn more: PBS Learning Media
13. Read Areli is a Dreamer
This picture book shares the true story of one young girl's journey from Mexico to New York. The accompanying guide comes with vocabulary and discussion questions to address the impact of immigration on Latin American culture.
Learn more: Share My Lesson
14. Make a Paper Mache Pinata
Students will definitely enjoy making (and breaking open) these colorful pinatas. Let them choose from a variety of classic shapes such as the seven coned star or come up with their own.
Learn more: Kid Activities
15. Learn Latin American Geography
This map challenge will require students to look up the locations of different cities in South America. As an extension activity, they can research facts about each city to share with the class.
Learn more: Education.com
16. Create A Self-Portrait in the Style of Frida Kahlo
Frida Kahlo was a master of self-portraits, who combined elements of Mexican culture with European artistic traditions to create truly unique paintings. This lesson includes some suggested reading and viewing to learn more about her life and enduring artistic legacy.
Learn more: Blowing Rock Museum
17. Learn About Latin Music
This kid-friendly video provides an overview of popular genres of Latin Music, including salsa, merengue, and bossa nova. It also highlights the incredible talent of a variety of Latin artists including Vicente Fernandez and Gloria Estefan.
Learn more: Brain Pop
18. Create a Glossary of Spanish Words
Students create a glossary of Spanish words that are used in the English language such as hurricane, tobacco, and hammock. This lesson is sure to develop their appreciation for cross-cultural influences and the rich history of both languages.
Learn more: Education World
19. Celebrate Mexican Culture with a Flip Book
Kinesthetic learners will enjoy assembling this flipbook, which includes sections on the map, culture, flag, food, and history of Mexico.
Learn more: Teachers Pay Teachers
20. Write a Folktale
After reading and discussing folktales from various Hispanic cultures, students will be bursting with ideas for their own.
Learn more: Education World
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