September 15 to October 15 is National Hispanic Heritage Month (HHM). For generations, the contributions and achievements of our Latin American communities have infused our culture and enriched our lives. This month, take time with your family to celebrate and learn more about Hispanic Heritage. Here are a few ideas to help you do just that.
- Read - Books are one of the best ways I know to be exposed to different cultures, enveloped by different worlds, and enlightened by different ideas. Expand your worldview with a book written by a Latinx author or highlighting Latino communities. While there are many powerful books for adults, you can find tons of picture books and books for young readers, too.
- Look – Frida Kahlo, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Salvador Dali, and Pablo Picasso are just a few of the more well-known Hispanic artists – but there are so many more! Take time to explore the Art & Architecture curated for HHM.
- Listen – Music is a great way to celebrate HHM and infuse your home with the Sounds of Latin America! Check out these great playlists from the Smithsonian, or use your go-to music app to pull up tunes by a favorite Latinx artist. You can find more music and resources at The Library of Congress' Hispanic Heritage Month website.
- Speak – Have you ever wished you could speak another language? Why not give Spanish a try? Learning with loved ones can be a fun family activity and a great way to better understand other cultures. You can find lots of great ways to start learning Spanish – and why it matters – online.
- Study – During HHM, we may find ourselves focusing on cultures and traditions from our southern neighbor, Mexico – or just being a little confused about the whole thing. In reality, our lives have been improved by contributions from many different Latin American and Hispanic cultures and countries, like Brazil, Nicaragua, Puerto Rico, and Uruguay. Learn a few basics about Hispanic Heritage Month, then take time to learn more about the people and places in Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Spain. The CIA World Factbook is a great place to start. Or try National Geographic Kids for younger learners. Kids can even turn their studies into a fun 4-H project.
MEET THE AUTHOR
Emily Schoenfelder joined the Illinois 4-H team in 2017. Prior to this, she began her work in positive youth development with California 4-H and the YMCA. She specializes in STEM engagement, social-emotional development, and educator professional development.
She received a Master of Science degree in recreation, park, and tourism administration from Western Illinois University.
When she is not leading a training, writing curriculum, or developing new partnerships, you may find Emily sitting on the floor of her office, building marshmallow catapults out of popsicle sticks or designing mazes for robots for her next STEM program.
ABOUT THE BLOG
Connection Corner is a blog that provides timely information, activities, and resources to help you stay connected to loved ones, the world around you, and yourself.