September 11, 2001 is a day that will forever be etched in the hearts and minds of Americans. It was the day when the nation was attacked by terrorists, leaving thousands dead and countless more injured. This tragic event gave rise to Patriot Day, a day of remembrance to recognize the selfless heroes who sacrificed their lives. On this day, we pay tribute to the police officers, firefighters, and other first responders who died in the line of duty, as well as the innocent civilians who lost their lives.

Patriot Day was officially recognized as a national holiday by President George W. Bush in 2002, a year after the attacks. The day serves as a reminder of the resilience of our nation and the courage of those who fought to defend it. We honor the heroes who rushed into harm’s way to save the lives of others, and we recommit ourselves to the values that make this country great – including democracy, freedom, and justice.

It’s important to remember that Patriot Day is about coming together as a community to honor those who have sacrificed their lives to keep us safe. While it may be challenging to explain the events of 9/11 to our children, it’s important to make sure they understand the significance of this day in a way that is both age-appropriate and respectful.

Meaningful and inclusive ways to commemorate Patriot Day with kids:

1. Learn Together: Take the time to research and learn about what happened on 9/11 as a family. Use age-appropriate materials to explain the events and the impact on our country. Make sure to have conversations that allow for questions and emotions. Even young children can learn about empathy and compassion for others.
2. Make Art: Art can be a powerful way to process emotions and commemorate important events. Children can create a drawing, poem, or letter that reflects the theme of courage, resilience, or hope.
3. Participate in Service: Honor Patriot Day with an act of kindness. Volunteer as a family at a charity or nonprofit that serves others in honor of those who lost their lives during the attacks. Participating in service will allow you to honor the sacrifices made and also teach children the importance of giving back to their community.
4. Have a Moment of Silence: Explain to children the United States flag is flown at half-staff on Patriot Day in honor of those who lost their lives on 9/11. You can also observe a moment of silence at 8:46 a.m. – the time when the first plane struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center – as an appropriate way to show respect.
5. Participate in a Walk or Run: Community walks and runs have become a popular way to pay tribute to 9/11 victims, survivors, and first responders. Many cities host their own 9/11 memorial events, which provide a space for individuals and families to come together.

By participating in these remembrance activities, families can help their children express their emotions, connect with their community, and commemorate this important day. Let us come together, remember together, and honor together.

Every year from September 15 to October 15, the United States celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month. This observance appreciates the history, heritage, and immeasurable contributions of citizens who trace their roots to Mexico, Spain, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.

The origins of Hispanic Heritage Month trace back to the civil rights movement of the 1960s. With a growing recognition of the Latin community’s contributions to American society, President Lyndon B. Johnson initiated the observance of Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968. Later, under President Ronald Reagan, the celebration was extended to a month-long commemoration.

The start date of September 15 marks the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries including El Salvador, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Honduras. Additionally, Mexico, Chile, and Belize celebrate their independence days on September 16, 18, and 21. Dia de la Raza, a day to celebrate Indigenous American and Spanish heritage, also falls within Hispanic Heritage Month.

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with activities as diverse and vibrant as the community itself:

Food: Stop by a local bakery, market, or restaurant to explore unique ingredients and spices used in authentic Hispanic and Latino culinary dishes. Try out a new recipe at home, like savory paella or sweet tres leches cake.

Art and Literature: Visit the library or access online resources to experience the works of Hispanic artists like Pablo Picasso, Frida Kahlo, Salvador Dali, Diego Velazquez, and Francisco Goya. Also, delve into books by Hispanic and Latino authors — many libraries will have dedicated displays and book lists, or watch recorded “story times” available on YouTube in English and Spanish.

Movies: Kid-friendly movies exploring Hispanic and Latino culture, like “The Book of Life,” “Encanto,” “Coco,” “Chupa,” and “Vivo,” offer fun, educational entertainment. There are also many television documentaries highlighting Hispanic and Latino culture and history.

Music and Dance: Introduce your child to the vibrancy of Latino dance styles. Learn the basic steps of salsa dancing or get moving to cumbias.

Celebrations: Host a fiesta that includes the ideas above, plus decorations like a piñata or papel picado, beautiful and colorful banners cut with intricate designs. Play games like Lotería (a lottery game similar to Bingo) or a bilingual memory card game.

Virtual Tours: Visit the Smithsonian’s Museum of the American Latino online to explore the contributions of Latino communities. Then, take virtual tours of amazing places like Mexico’s Mayan Pyramids, the Galápagos Islands, or the Panama Jungle.

Festivals: Enjoy a local event that offers live music, dancing, art displays, and food vendors.

Online: Expand your social media community by following and supporting Hispanic and Latino artists and activists. Consider adding a social media bio or email signature that recognizes National Hispanic Heritage Month.

Support: Strengthen the Hispanic community by donating or volunteering time to Hispanic and cultural institutions or charities.

Hispanic Heritage Month is more than a celebration of culture and history. It’s a recognition of the enduring contributions of a diverse and vibrant community that has shaped the American landscape in countless ways. Let’s embrace and honor this rich heritage, not just for a month, but throughout the year.