Each year from September 15 to October 15 in the United States, people around the country celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month. What started in 1968 as just one week of recognition of Hispanic people and contributions to society has now evolved to an entire month of celebrations, events and parades that serve to commemorate the importance of Latinx people in this country.

My little American/Hispanic mixed family has roots in Ecuador, South America, so we love to find lots of ways to show our young kids how they can appreciate their Hispanic heritage. Here’s some fun ideas that we enjoy.

BOOKS TO READ

1. “Mango, Abuela and Me” by Meg Medina and Angela Dominguez
2. “Alma and How She Got Her Name” by Juana Martinez-Neal
3. “When I Grow Up - Sonia Sotomayor” by AnnMarie Anderson and Gerald Kelly
4. “Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls” (Volumes 1 and 2) - a favorite in our home, which our 7-year-old continues to ask as a bedtime story for the last 3 years. These books contain stories of so many amazing women from all parts of the world, including many Hispanics. (See photos below)
5. “Sofia Valdez, Future Prez” by Andrea Beaty and David Roberts
6. “Galapagos Girl/Galapagueña” by Marsha Diane Arnold & Angela Dominguez – we really enjoy the illustrations and learning about all the animals that live on these unique islands off the coast of Ecuador. The book also contains lots of Science facts about the topography of the islands and the marine life who live there.
7. “Stef Soto, Taco Queen” by Jennifer Torres
8. “Quince” (Graphic Novel) by Kit Steinkellner, Emma Steinkellner & Sebastian Kadlecik
9. “Tuki and Moka: A Tale of Two Tamarins” by Judy Young and Jim Madsen - a gorgeously illustrated picture book that takes place in the rainforest of Ecuador, which introduces kids to the dangers of animal trafficking, and teaches the importance of protecting animals and plants who call the Amazon home.

Illustrations from "Good Night Stories from Rebel Girls"
(L-R: Rigoberta Menchú Tum, Celia Cruz, Frida Kahlo)

FOOD TO EAT

1. Beans and Rice - a common staple in most parts of the Latinx world
2. Plantains, or Plantain Chips are always fun to crunch and munch
3. Tortilla Chips and Salsa, of course (Salsa can be mild or include fruits like mango and pineapple, to be sweeter for kids)
4. Tofu Tacos (If your kids like a smoky flavor, this is a delicious recipe from “Clean Food Dirty Girl.” My kids like less smoky flavors, so I follow the recipe but only include a tiny sprinkle of Smoked Paprika).
5. Arroz con Leche - a popular dessert all around the Latinx world, this recipe from “Chicano Eats” is Dairy-Free and has some great tropical vibes by using Coconut Milk.
6. “Mote Pillo” is a traditional egg and hominy dish from Ecuador, made super easy and egg-free in this recipe
7. Nachos! We use Daiya Dairy-Free cheese, Tofurky Chick’n, and Tofutti Sour Cream. (See photo below)
8. Quinoa Bowl - cook quinoa according to package instructions, add in canned black beans, green or red onions (or omit for kids), chopped cilantro and diced tomatoes.
9. “Guatita Vegana” - a stew made of Seitan and Potatoes in a creamy Peanut Butter sauce - a kid favorite!

Buen Provecho and enjoy your celebrations!

Dairy-Free Chick'n Nachos and "Mote Pillo" (Tofu and Hominy Dish)