Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month in the Montessori Classroom

Hispanic Heritage Month, observed from September 15 to October 15, is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the rich cultural traditions, languages, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities. In a Montessori classroom, we can honor this month in ways that highlight hands-on learning, respect for culture, and child-led exploration.

1. Geography and Culture Studies

Montessori materials naturally lend themselves to cultural celebrations. Use the puzzle maps of North, Central, and South America to explore the countries where Spanish is spoken. Children can label countries, flags, and capitals, and create booklets highlighting each nation’s traditions.

2. Language and Literature

• Spanish Language Works: Offer vocabulary cards with common Spanish words connected to classroom life (familia, casa, comida, escuela).

• Stories and Poems: Read bilingual books by Hispanic authors, such as Alma Flor Ada or Pat Mora, and invite children to respond with drawings or short reflections.

• Songs: Teach traditional children’s songs in Spanish, such as De Colores or Los Pollitos Dicen.

  
  

3. Art and Music Appreciation

Introduce children to Hispanic artists such as Frida Kahlo or Diego Rivera, and let them explore self-portraits or murals inspired by their work.

Play traditional and contemporary Hispanic music during work time, inviting children to notice rhythm, instruments, and cultural expressions.

4. Practical Life and Food Traditions

Practical life activities can be infused with cultural richness:

• Prepare simple Hispanic foods together, like tortillas or guacamole.

• Practice traditional crafts, such as papel picado or weaving. These activities allow children to explore culture while strengthening fine motor skills.

  
  

5. Saints and Faith Connections

For Catholic Montessori classrooms, highlight Hispanic saints such as Our Lady of Guadalupe, St. Oscar Romero, or St. Martín de Porres. Create prayer cards with their images and simple biographies, and invite children to reflect on their lives of faith and service.

6. Community Connections

If possible, invite parents or community members to share stories, songs, recipes, or traditions from their heritage. These firsthand experiences bring culture to life in a way that honors authenticity and diversity.

In Montessori education, we embrace the child’s natural curiosity about the world and its people. Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month invites children to appreciate beauty, diversity, and interconnectedness—helping them grow into global citizens with respect and gratitude for all cultures.