National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15th to October 15th. In the United States, Spanish is the second language that most people learn. In fact, more than 38 million native Spanish speakers are now in the United States. Do you speak Spanish? ¿Habla usted Español?

At WOS we build a strong sense of community, and set children up for success socially and academically! During library lessons this month we will celebrate the languages of English as Second Language Learners (ELL).

A quick lesson in Spanish words and phrases will be tons of fun! ¡Vamos! Let’s go!

We will begin with learning to count!

We will introduce helpful phrases!

READ: Pancho Rabbit and Coyote: A Migrant’s Tale by Duncan Tonatiuh

In this allegorical picture book, a young rabbit named Pancho eagerly awaits his papa’s return. Papa Rabbit traveled north two years prior to find work in the great carrot and lettuce fields to earn money for his family. When Papa does not return, Pancho sets out to find him. He packs Papa’s favorite meal—mole, rice and beans, a heap of warm tortillas, and a jug of aguamiel—and heads north. He meets a coyote, who offers to help Pancho in exchange for some of Papa’s food. They travel together until the food is gone and the coyote decides he is still hungry . . . for Pancho!

Below is an interview with the author of Pancho Rabbit and the Coyote.

Second graders will read: I Lived on Butterfly Hill by Marjorie Agosin

Celeste Marconi is a dreamer. She lives peacefully among friends and neighbors and family in the idyllic town of Valparaiso, Chile—until the time comes when even Celeste, with her head in the clouds, can’t deny the political unrest that is sweeping through the country. Warships are spotted in the harbor and schoolmates disappear from class without a word. Celeste doesn’t quite know what is happening, but one thing is clear: no one is safe, not anymore.

Here are some fun ways you can celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with your child:

Play Paco’s Passport – a game celebrating Hispanic heritage!

Watch Maya & Miguel on your local PBS station.  From October 1 – October 15, they will be airing episodes that celebrate all kinds of culture and heritage. Tune into your favorite episodes, including Mala Suerte, La Nueva Cocinita, La Calavera , Tito’s Mexican Vacation, and more!

Check out some Latin Fun Fiesta  facts, and find out about Hispanic heritage, famous Hispanic Americans, and more!