May 2021
5 Ways Your Family Can Explore Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage
Children are naturally curious. Their world is full of new friends to meet, places to go, new foods to try and music to explore. There is so much to discover. As a family, why not harness that innate desire to investigate and learn about different cultures.
May is Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month and a time to honor the many contributions made by Asian and Pacific Islander Americans to American society. Open a new world of possibility for your children by celebrating the rich culture and history. Below are some creative ways to boost your family’s knowledge of Asian-Pacific American culture.
Take a Culinary Journey Through Asia and the Pacific Islands
Whether you are dining out or cooking together at home, sampling native dishes is a tasty way to experience the culture. Try homemade lumpia, spring rolls commonly found in Indonesia and the Philippines, or pho ga, chicken pho noodle soup.
Get Crafty
Did you know Australia, New Zealand and India are part of the Asia-Pacific region? Learn which other countries call this part of the world home by making a globe. Talk about each country’s language, food and climate.
Expand Language Knowledge
Learn to say “thank you” in another language. According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, the Asia-Pacific region is home to more than 3,200 languages.
Visit a Museum or Cultural Center
Whether in person or virtual, visit an exhibit featuring art from the Asia-Pacific region. For a virtual experience, visit the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art from the comfort of your home.
Take a Nature Walk
According to U.S. Department of Education, in 1912, Japan gifted over 3,000 cherry trees to the United States as a symbol of friendship. Take a walk in your neighborhood and look at the trees. See how many different trees you and your children can find – and if you notice any cherry trees.
