Talking with children about different cultures and serving them various cultural foods can help them learn
about cultures from around the world. Introducing children to culturally diverse foods:
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fosters cultural awareness,
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encourages family connections,
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and creates a sense of belonging for children from all backgrounds.
With Hispanic Heritage Month approaching, it is the perfect opportunity to celebrate Hispanic and Latine cultures in your program. Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15th to October 15th. This month honors the cultures and contributions of Hispanic Americans across the U.S.
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by reading related children’s books, hosting a taste test of produce from Hispanic countries, and serving Hispanic dishes for meals and snacks!
Examples of produce you can try from Hispanic and Latine countries include:
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Avocados
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Mamey
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Mangos
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Yuca
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Cilantro
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Tomatillos
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Malanga
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Cactus Leaves (Nopales)
Hispanic and Latine meals and snacks you can serve include:
While flavors and textures may be new to some children, a taste test can introduce new foods and flavors and encourage healthy eating! Remember to talk with children about the flavors, textures, and colors as well as the food’s cultural origin.
You can involve children by letting them select a dish, serve themselves, or prepare parts of the meal. These strategies can help children get excited about trying new foods!
Get families involved! If there are Hispanic or Latine families in your program, ask them about their favorite cultural dish and serve it for children, or have them bring in a cultural meal or snack if they choose.
Use Hispanic Heritage Month as an opportunity to introduce cultural foods. You can also choose to focus on the cultures and foods of families in your program and then explore cultures worldwide!
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