Mexican Americans
We Are America Series
on Goodreads (2)
What’s inside...
An overview of the history and daily lives of Mexican people who immigrated to the United States.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some unique traditions or celebrations mentioned in the book that you would like to learn more about?
How do the experiences of Mexican Americans differ from other groups in the United States, according to the book?
Can you think of ways how Mexican Americans have influenced American culture and society?
What challenges do Mexican Americans face as described in the book, and how do they overcome them?
How does learning about different cultures, like the Mexican American community, change your view of the world?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the book's themes to their own experiences by asking them to share any similar situations or feelings.
Discuss the illustrations and ask how they enhance the story or provide more context about the Mexican American culture.
Promote empathy by asking your child how they would feel in similar situations faced by characters in the book.
Use the book as a starting point to explore more about Mexican American history and contributions through online resources or local community events.
After reading, encourage your child to tell the story in their own words, focusing on what they found most interesting or important.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Cultural Appreciation
Explanation: The book introduces children to the rich traditions, history, and contributions of Mexican Americans, fostering a respect for cultural diversity.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and acknowledge the diverse cultural backgrounds of people in their community, promoting inclusivity and respect.
Example Lesson: Historical Awareness
Explanation: Through narratives about the Mexican American experience, the book provides insights into key historical events and their impacts on communities and the nation.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be curious about history and understand the significance of past events in shaping present circumstances.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: By exposing young readers to the challenges faced by Mexican Americans, the book fosters empathy and a deeper understanding of different life perspectives.
Real-World Application: Children can apply empathy in their daily interactions, improving their emotional intelligence and ability to connect with others.
Example Lesson: Importance of Identity
Explanation: The book celebrates the uniqueness of the Mexican American identity, illustrating the importance of self-acceptance and pride in one’s heritage.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to embrace their own identities and learn to respect the cultural identities of others, which enhances social harmony.
Example Lesson: Community and Family Values
Explanation: Mexican Americans often have strong familial ties and community bonds, as depicted in the book, which highlights the importance of these relationships.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children appreciate the role of family and community in their lives, promoting strong interpersonal relationships and support systems.