Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in Orlando
Hispanic Heritage month, celebrated from September 15 to October 15, is a time when we can learn more about the various cultures, countries and people that make up Latin America. It is a great opportunity for families and kids to try new and different activities. We’ve listed some great ways to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in Orlando with the kids.
Attend an Event
Orlando Public Library – Attend one of the numerous Hispanic Heritage Month events at the Orlando Public Library including dance performances, art classes, cooking classes and more.
Hispanic Heritage Month Fiesta – Celebrate diversity, heritage and history with a Spanish twist at the annual Hispanic Heritage Month Fiesta. Enjoy Hispanic food and entertainment.
Hispanic Heritage Art Show – Hispanic Heritage Exhibition celebrates the long and important presence of Hispanic and Latino Americans in North America. The art for this show should showcase Latin heritage by Hispanic artists.
Hispanic Heritage Month Story Time – KEA Orlando will host four Hispanic Heritage Month inspired Story Time books and crafts. We will be reading the Lil’ Libros childrens series by authors Patty Rodriguez and Ariana Stein. Lil’ Libros books celebrate Hispanic culture and the important figures in its history. Told in both English and Spanish, the books introduce children to new words, numbers, colors, shapes, and biographies!
Read a Book
Gathering the Sun: An Alphabet in English and Spanish by Alma Flor Ada
This book not only helps to reinforce the letters of the alphabet, but it also teaches kids a Spanish word for each letter of the alphabet as well. It teaches them about Hispanic agricultural life, through poems written in both Spanish and English utilizing the new Spanish words that they are learning.
Martina the Beautiful Cockroach by Carmen Agra Deedy
Martina the Beautiful Cockroach is a Cuban folktale about a cockroach looking for a love. The book is sprinkled with Spanish words and is a perfect way to introduce kids to the Spanish language.
Make a Craft
Papel Picado, meaning cut paper, is a decorative craft which is common in Mexico. Elaborate designs are usually stenciled into paper and “cut out” with a chisel. Parents can make a simple form of the craft with kids using tissue paper and scissors. Kids can draw their designs onto paper and then cut them out or they can simply cut the paper free-hand to make a design.
Make a Meal
Quick and Easy Quesadillas are really simple to make and a perfect recipe for kids. First take two tortillas and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend on one tortilla. Add chicken to the same tortilla. Cover the tortilla with toppings with the other tortilla. Bake in the toaster oven until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted. Cut into fours and serve with salsa, sour cream and corn and black bean salad.
Corn and Black Bean Salad is a good side dish for quesadillas. Take two cups of corn, fresh or canned, and mix with two cups of black beans. Add diced tomatoes and jalapeños to taste.
