Mexican history and culture are magical, vibrant and multifaceted. We are a melting pot of ancient civilizations that, with Spanish influence, result in a unique blend of architecture, art, music, flavors, stories and festivities.
Therefore, instilling Mexican traditions in children is not difficult. Taking them on this fascinating journey through time to learn more about who we are and where we come from is fundamental to building their individual and collective identity. It gives them a sense of belonging and contributes to their emotional development. It connects them with their past, their family and their community; it teaches them values and fosters respect for our country and its culture, so they can continue passing it on to future generations.
For all these reasons, it's worth promoting our customs in them. Here are seven fun and very Mexican activities that they are sure to love:
Many moms tell bedtime stories. Why not let their imagination run wild through Mexican myths and legends? Include in your collection stories like "The Rabbit and the Moon," "The Legend of the Volcanoes" or "Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl."
Children love cooking, and what better than a family recipe? Ask grandma for her recipe book and prepare gelatin or fresh water drinks. Make handmade tortillas, tamales or guacamole. The list of possibilities is endless.
If something characterizes Mexican crafts, it's their incredible colorfulness. Let creativity run wild and make papel picado, alebrijes, rehiletes or piñatas. Celebrate each season with its respective rituals, like setting up an altar for Día de Muertos or painting ornaments for Christmas.
Every corner of Mexico tells a story. Once a month, visit a new museum, discover some ruins or venture to a historic site. Attend shows like the Voladores de Papantla, light and sound spectacles on the facades of ruins or buildings, or folkloric dances, among many more options. The best part is that they often offer discounts for children or families or even have free entry days.
Children love cheerful songs that tell stories. There are many typical Mexican songs they will surely enjoy, like "De Colores," "La Cucaracha," "Cielito Lindo," or "Naranja Dulce."
It is no coincidence that our country attracts foreigners year-round who fall in love with our culture, nature, flavors and the warmth of our people. Organize family trips to some of the best beaches in the world, from Baja California to the Riviera Maya, visit Pueblos Mágicos, be amazed by natural formations like cliffs, caves or cenotes, and transport yourselves to other eras by exploring temples and ruins.
During festivities, you can dress up and pay homage to emblematic figures of Mexican cinema, music and folklore. From national heroes like Emiliano Zapata, artists like Frida Kahlo or stars of the Golden Age of Mexican cinema like Cantinflas or María Félix, to pop culture icons like Chespirito or El Santo.
Of course, you cannot miss celebrating holidays like Independence Day, Día de Muertos or the typical posadas, which are the heart of our traditions. But also remember that Mexico's rich history is not only built with the great events and figures that defined it, but also with the countless stories of every Mexican family. So it is crucial to tell your children about their own family's past, because these personal stories will provide them with fundamental values such as unity, resilience, perseverance and overcoming challenges. The collection of all these stories is a vital bridge between the past, present and future to understand life itself.
Tere Medina
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