May is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, opens a new window, a time to celebrate the rich cultures, traditions and contributions of AAPI communities. Teaching kids about AAPI heritage helps them appreciate diversity, understand different histories and develop respect for people from all backgrounds.
Here are some fun and meaningful ways to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month with kids:
Read books written by AAPI authors
Books are a great way to introduce kids to different cultures.
Check out some fantastic middle grade books by and about Asian American and Pacific Islanders.
Get creative with fun projects inspired by AAPI cultures
- Origami: Try folding paper cranes, frogs or flowers to learn about this beautiful Japanese art form.
- Rangoli Art: Use chalk or colored rice to create vibrant rangoli patterns inspired by Indian culture.
- Lei Making: String flowers, paper cutouts or beads together to make a Hawaiian lei.
Watch kid-friendly AAPI movies
Movies are a fun way to learn about AAPI cultures and stories.
- Raya and the Last Dragon – Inspired by Southeast Asian cultures.
- Moana – Celebrates Polynesian heritage and oceanic traditions.
- Abominable – A heartwarming adventure featuring Chinese culture.
- Kubo and the Two Strings - An action adventure based on Japanese mythology.
Cook AAPI Inspired Dishes
Food is a delicious way to learn about different cultures. Cook simple AAPI dishes with your kids.
- Sushi Rolls, opens a new window (Japan) – Let kids make their own sushi using seaweed, rice, and veggies.
- Lumpia, opens a new window (Philippines) – These crispy spring rolls are fun to roll and fry together.
- Spam Musubi, opens a new window (Hawaii) – A yummy snack made with rice, Spam and seaweed.
- Mango Sticky Rice, opens a new window (Thailand) – A sweet treat with coconut milk and fresh mango.
Learn about important AAPI historical figures and celebrities
Teach kids about inspiring AAPI figures who have made a difference.
- Ruby Ibarra, opens a new window – A Filipino American rapper and scientist.
- Duke Kahanamoku, opens a new window – A Hawaiian Olympic swimmer and surfing legend.
- Patsy Mink, opens a new window – The first Asian American woman elected to Congress.
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Yo-Yo Ma, opens a new window – A world-famous Chinese American cellist.
Celebrate with Music and Dance
Listen to traditional music from different AAPI cultures.
- Try Hawaiian ukulele songs, Indian classical music or K-pop!
- Learn a cultural dance like hula (Hawaii) or bhangra (India).
Visit AAPI Culture Fest and Night Market:
The AAPI Culture Fest and Night Market, opens a new window celebrates AAPI identity through art, culture and community while fostering unity and cross-cultural understanding in Colorado. Check out the night market, art auction, cultural performances, food, vendors and more! This event takes place on Friday May 16th from 5-10pm at Civic Center Park in Denver.
Celebrating AAPI Heritage Month is a great way to teach kids about diversity, respect and inclusion. By reading stories, making crafts, cooking foods and learning about AAPI history, children can grow up appreciating the beauty of different cultures.
How will you celebrate AAPI Heritage Month with your kids this year? Let us know in the comments!
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