Why Hispanic Heritage Month Matters - Free Printable included
Raising my daughter in Texas means we’re lucky to be surrounded by a beautiful blend of cultures—food that makes your mouth water, music that makes you move, and art and history that tell powerful stories. Hispanic Heritage Month is our chance to lean in, celebrate, and learn together as a family. It’s about honoring the voices of friends and neighbors, joining in community celebrations, and remembering that culture connects us—no matter where in the world we live.
🌎 From September 15 to October 15, we shine a light on the vibrant traditions, histories, and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities. It’s a time to discover how stories shape who we are, why respect and inclusion matter, and how celebrating differences makes us stronger.
So, let’s start with the basics:
Hispanic
Adjective: relating to Spain or to Spanish-speaking countries, especially those of Latin America.
Noun: a Spanish-speaking person living in the U.S., especially one of Latin American descent.
Latinx
Noun: a person of Latin American origin or descent (used as a gender-neutral or nonbinary alternative to Latino or Latina).
Adjective: relating to people of Latin American origin or descent, used as a gender-neutral or nonbinary alternative to Latino or Latina.
And guess what? You’ve already learned something new—and we’re just getting started!
Why Talk About It With Kids?
Our kids are growing up in a world that’s both exciting and complicated. They’ll learn to see friends or foes, borders as bridges or walls. Talking early and often isn’t just about teaching love and empathy—it’s about helping them process what they overhear on the playground, in the news, or even from us.
By making space to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, we show kids that differences are something to respect and embrace. Together, we can raise a generation that asks questions about fairness and belonging—and sees the beauty in every culture.
Why Now, More Than Ever
Kids notice more than we often give them credit for. They see when someone is treated unfairly, they hear the words people use, and they feel the ripple effects of those actions. When we don’t talk about it, they’re left to sort through the confusion on their own.
Starting these conversations early not only helps kids process what they see and hear, it gives them the lifelong tools to ask questions, listen deeply, and respond with kindness and respect. Most importantly, it shows them they can always come to us with their “whys”—that we’re their safe place for answers.
These everyday moments—sharing a story at bedtime, chatting in the car, or talking over dinner—are what shape kids into thoughtful leaders who will stand up for themselves and others. The future starts with these conversations.
How Families Can Celebrate Together
Here are a few simple ways to bring Hispanic Heritage Month to life at home and in your community:
- 📚 Read together — Choose books by Hispanic and Latinx authors, like Esperanza Rising or Merci Suárez Changes Gears, and talk about the lessons and themes.
- 🎶 Dance to the music — Explore salsa, mariachi, bachata, or reggaetón, then turn your living room into a mini dance party.
- 🍲 Cook a recipe — Make empanadas, arroz con leche, or tacos together and learn the story of where each dish comes from.
- 🗣️ Practice Spanish phrases — Try simple greetings or thank-yous, and have fun learning new ways to connect.
- 🎨 Join a community event — Visit a local art show, museum exhibit, or cultural festival to experience traditions firsthand.
- 🤝 Support local businesses — Dine at a Hispanic-owned restaurant, shop from Latinx makers, or attend a neighborhood celebration.
- 🌎 Volunteer or give back — Partner with local organizations uplifting Hispanic and Latinx communities, and show kids how celebration can include action.
Hispanic Heritage Leaders: Past, Present, and Future
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month means honoring leaders who inspire us—throughout history and today—who are making a lasting impact. These stories remind us that leadership comes in many forms and at every stage of life.
⭐ Learn about leaders — Download our free printable and discover inspiring Hispanic figures who changed the world.
Bright Littles Grown-Up Tip
Kids don’t need polished speeches—they just need your honesty and openness. If you don’t know an answer, say so! Then look it up together. It shows kids that learning never stops, and that curiosity is a superpower.
Photo credit: Travel off path