Resources for Studying St. Augustine & the Real First Thanksgiving

Teachers and parents! Check out these resources for learning about America's real first Thanksgiving in St. Augustine - 56 years before Plymouth.

Learn the history behind St. Augustine or just scroll down to the online and printable resources available for educators (and parents). 

This post contains affiliate links.

St. Augustine's First Thanksgiving Meal

Fifty-six years before the Pilgrims gathered at Plymouth, another significant event unfolded in America—a feast that marks the real first Thanksgiving. The feast of unity and gratitude took place in the city of St. Augustine, laying the foundation for a tradition that would resonate across centuries.

Wood carving of  Pedro Menendez de Aviles

José Camarón y Boronat (1730-1803), published by Franco de Paula Marti in 1791, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Don Pedro Menéndez de Avilés

In the early 1560s, a group of Spanish settlers led by Don Pedro Menéndez de Avilés arrived on the shores of what is now Florida. They established a settlement and named it St. Augustine. These pioneers faced challenges as they built their new home, but they persevered, cultivating the land and creating a community. St. Augustine still exists today and is considered to be the oldest city in the United States.

The Feast of 1565

On September 8, 1565, Menéndez and his men celebrated a Mass of Thanksgiving. They invited the Timucua people, who were the first inhabitants of the area. 

This was the first time people got together to show they were thankful and to celebrate their beliefs in the first permanent town in North America established by Europeans.

A Feast of Unity

This feast was not just about sharing food; it was a celebration of unity and friendship. The Spanish settlers invited the local peoples to join them in this moment of gratitude. Together, they sat around tables laden with the fruits of their labor—freshly harvested vegetables, fruits, and the bounty of the sea.

A Diverse Menu

The menu of this first Thanksgiving in St. Augustine reflected the diverse cultures that came together. The Spanish provided dishes such as paella and cocido, and probably red wine. The Native American contributions were probably turkey, venison, corn, beans, and squash. The exchange of culinary traditions symbolized the blending of two worlds and the birth of a unique cultural heritage.

Gratitude and Friendship

As the settlers and Native Americans shared this feast, they expressed their appreciation for the blessings of the land and the friendships that had formed. 

This celebration went beyond the simple act of sharing a meal; it marked a commitment to understanding and embracing the differences between their cultures.

The Legacy of St. Augustine's First Thanksgiving

St. Augustine's first Thanksgiving set the stage for the spirit of gratitude that would come to define the Thanksgiving celebrations we know today. It was a genuine coming together of people from different backgrounds, sharing in a moment of appreciation for the blessings they had received.

The Plymouth Feast

While the story of the Pilgrims and the first Thanksgiving in Plymouth is well-known, it's essential to recognize the earlier celebration that took place in St. Augustine. As we gather with family and friends each year to give thanks, let's remember the pioneers of St. Augustine, whose feast of unity and gratitude laid the groundwork for a tradition that continues to bring people together across the diverse tapestry of America.

Online Resources

The best online site for learning about St. Augustine, Don Pedro Menéndez de Avilés, and the Timucua is without a doubt the Florida Museum's online exhibit. 

For critical thinking, check out this article by History.com: Did Florida Host the First Thanksgiving?

For a deep dive into the Timucua, this video: Thimogoua: The Timucua People - Deptford & St. John's Culture - Florida & Georgia, USA by Jaguar Bird. ** I strongly recommend that parents and teachers preview this video before showing it to their kids.**

Printable Lessons

Florida Museum also has a printable educator's guide called First Colony: Our Spanish Origins that is excellent. 

If you want a simple, print-and-go resource, MommyMaestra's St. Augustine: The Real First Thanksgiving one-page reading passage is the way to go. It also comes with a Google Slides presentation.

Recommended Reading

America's Real First Thanksgiving: St. Augustine, Florida, September 8, 1565
by Robyn Gioia

You may also enjoy:

• Latin Inspired Thanksgiving Dishes (Series)
  
  
• Bilingual Resources for Thanksgiving - Lesson Plans, Activities, & More
  
  
• Bilingual Thanksgiving Printables

Thanksgiving Specials: Sweet Potato Flan

Every year, I look for new recipes with Latin twists to try during the holidays. This year, I'm excited about this sweet potato flan recipe from Ericka at NibblesAndFeasts.com!

Sweet Potato Flan by Nibbles and Feasts

There are two things I like about this recipe. First, it can be made in advance. If you are like me, then Thanksgiving morning is a crazy day in the kitchen. This flan can be made a day or two in advance and kept in the fridge.

Second, you can sub canned sweet potatoes rather than cook them if you are pressed for time.

Ericka walks you through the recipe over here on her blog. So go print off the recipe and try something new this year!

What is Flan?

If you aren't familiar with flan, the best way I can describe it is that it's a luscious caramel-crowned custard. And its history as rich and diverse as its decadent flavor. 

This dessert's roots can be traced back to the Roman Empire, where a dish called "tyropatinam" made with honey and milk served as a precursor to the modern flan. The concept traveled through medieval Europe and the Middle East, evolving into various custard-based sweets. 

However, it wasn't until the spread of Moorish influence in Spain that the dish truly transformed into what we recognize as flan today. The Moors introduced the use of caramelized sugar, a key component that imparts the signature golden hue and rich taste to flan.

Flan in the Americas

As explorers and settlers ventured to the Americas, they brought this sweet tradition with them. In Latin America, flan became a canvas for creative adaptations, blending indigenous ingredients with European culinary techniques. In fact, the dessert took on regional nuances, incorporating local flavors and textures. 

Today, flan holds a cherished place in the hearts and tables of countless cultures, showcasing the global fusion of culinary influences. Whether served plain, infused with unique flavors, or paired with regional twists like sweet potato, flan continues to be a timeless and beloved treat that transcends borders and centuries.

Exploring Thanksgiving Flavors in Flan

While sweet potato flan is a delightful departure from the traditional pumpkin pie, there are even more Thanksgiving flavors to experiment with in this classic Latin American dessert.

Consider infusing your flan with the warm, aromatic essence of cinnamon and nutmeg for a holiday spice kick. Alternatively, try incorporating the rich, toasty notes of pecans or walnuts to add a satisfying crunch. For a citrusy twist, consider infusing the custard with orange or lime zest, providing a refreshing contrast to the sweet potato base.

These creative variations not only pay homage to Latin culinary traditions but also offer a unique and delicious spin on the classic flan, making your Thanksgiving celebration a truly memorable one.

More Latin-Inspired Thanksgiving Recipes

This post is part of a series of Thanksgiving Day recipes with a cultural twist shared each year during Thanksgiving week here on MommyMaestra.

To view other delicious recipes, follow our Thanksgiving Break Specials.

Other Posts You May Enjoy

• Butternut Squash...Tamales?
  
  
• Pumpkin Empanadas!!
  
  
• Camotes al chipotle
  
  
• Roast Turkey with Port Wine Guava Glaze

Get Loud! for Hispanic Heritage

The following post is in collaboration with Tragos. All thoughts and opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links.

Discover ¡Get Loud! by Tragos Games, a fun, bilingual word game for kids. It's perfect for celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month - or learning at ANY time of the year.

Every year, during Hispanic Heritage Month, I go on the hunt looking for new resources that will help families (including mine!) with learning about about Hispanic culture or that support them in their efforts to raise bilingual kids. This year, Tragos Games stands out!

Get Loud! is their new bilingual guessing word game that is kid-friendly and great for nurturing their knowledge of Spanish AND Hispanic culture. I received a review sample of the game a few weeks ago. It is fabulous for several reasons.

The Huge Number of Cards

¡Get Loud! has SO MANY cards! There are 400 cards with words on both the front and back in English and Spanish, when necessary. That means 800 words! Wow. I can totally see how this would be an awesome game to play in the classroom and/or at home. These words range from simple everyday words of people, places, and things that your kid will be learning both in and out of school.

A lot of the words are culturally based - in other words, if you aren't familiar with Hispanic culture, then you will probably learn a lot. You may want to keep your phone handy so you can look up what some of them are. And even if you consider yourself pretty knowledgeable, you may still need to look up a few.

The Diversity

I like the diversity of Hispanic cultures that are represented in this game deck. From Puerto Rico to Colombia to Peru, there are references to foods, people, words, and more.

But the game also comes with different levels of difficulty. The cards are color coded: red and yellow with simpler words and references for younger players, or blue and green for more challenging words that adults are more likely to know. They include topics such as history, travel, and pop culture.

It's Bilingual!

And I think that the best part of this game is that it can easily be played in either English or Spanish. Many of the words are recognizable or used in both languages. But when necessary, they've listed the word in both languages.

This would be a great way to reinforce new vocabulary if your children (or your entire family) are learning either English or Spanish. 

But it's also a great way to learn about Latin America and U.S. Hispanic culture, icons, and more.

It's Kid Friendly!

The packaging says that this games is best for kids ages 8 and up, but really, I think you might even be able to use it with younger children. You may need to be intentional in the cards that you select to play with, but there are certainly PLENTY of options. 

How to Play

Playing the game is easy!

1. Choose the colored cards you want to use.
   
   
2. When it is your turn, you flip the minute sand timer and grab a card from the deck. Do your best to describe the word until the other person guesses what it is. 
   
   
3. Get another card from the deck and do the same. 
   
   
4. The team or player with the most cards at the end of three rounds is the winner!

The game defines a round is completed after each player on a team has had a turn. 

I think you can play individually or in teams, but teams is recommended. However, as a parent and teacher, I think you can certainly use this game in a variety of ways.

Get One!

This game is a must-have for all Hispanic families and classrooms. Don't wait! You can order your ¡Get Loud! card game here.

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Kid-Friendly Recipes for Aguas Frescas

 

Quench your thirst and indulge in the vibrant flavors of aguas frescas, the beloved traditional beverages that are a staple in Mexican culture. Because I suspect that half of you (or more!) are melting, just like I am here in Texas, I've put together a carefully curated collection of aguas frescas recipes that capture the essence of this time-honored tradition. 

Discover a variety of delightful concoctions that will transport you to the heart of Mexico. These are child-friendly recipes to engage your kids in the kitchen. Get ready to savor the taste of summer with these cool and invigorating aguas frescas recipes that celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Mexico!

This post contains affiliate links.

What are Aguas Frescas?

Aguas frescas are refreshing beverages that have become an integral part of Mexican culinary and cultural heritage. Literally translating to "fresh waters," these drinks are typically made by blending fresh fruits, flowers, or seeds with water and a touch of sweetener. The result is a cool and revitalizing drink that captures the essence of the ingredients used. From the classic flavors like horchata and Jamaica to creative combinations featuring fruits like pineapple, watermelon, or mango, aguas frescas offer a delicious way to beat the heat and quench your thirst while immersing yourself in the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine.

Aguas Frescas Recipes

Here's a list of some classic flavors - with a few exotic ones thrown in!

1. First! There are so many great recipes on Kids Are Great Cooks! I'm listing this page first because it's a lot of fun and inspiring for children to see other kids making delicious things in the kitchen.
   
   
2. SweetLife is always my first go-to for any authentic recipe and Vianney does not disappoint. Check out her Agua De Piña, Agua Fresca de Aguacate, Agua de Chayote, and Agua de Sandia.
   
   
3. Silvia at MamaLatinaTips.com is my next stop. (You might know Silvia from winning the Great American Recipe on PBS!) Her recipes include Easy Mexican Strawberry Agua Fresca, Kiwi Fruit Agua Fresca Recipe, Quince Agua Fresca, and Guava Agua Fresca.
   
   
4. You might also enjoy these recipes that Yvette shares on Muy Bueno Cookbook : Agua de Melón and my personal favorite flavor: Agua de Jamaica. (She has a few others on her site, but they're geared for adults, if you know what I mean.)
   
   
5. But the QUEEN of aguas frescas is Ericka Sanchez from Nibbles and Feasts. She has a couple of great ones on her site - Coconut Pecan Agua Fresca and Agua Fresca de Café - but she literally wrote the book on these drinks (and paletas!). Grab your copy by clicking the image or link below!

Aguas Frescas & Paletas: Refreshing Mexican Drinks and Frozen Treats, Traditional and Reimagined
by Ericka Sanchez

You may also like these recipes!

• AGUA DE PEPINO 🥒🍋(CUCUMBER AGUA FRESCA) + VIDEO: just 4 ingredients for this refreshing cucumber agua fresca from Mamá Maggie's Kitchen!
  
  
• COCONUT MANGO AGUA FRESCA is for all the Tajín lovers! Wow. 
  
  
• This Mixed Melon, Lime and Coconut Agua Fresca is from Pati Jinich's site and looks really good.
  
  
• For the RaddishKids fans, here's a Watermelon Agua Fresca recipe that you can print and make.
  
  
• Print this Healthy Agua Fresca recipe from WholeKidsFoundation.org. Which flavor would you choose?

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Other Posts You May Enjoy:

• 15 Homemade Paletas to Try this Summer
  
  
• Paleta-Themed Educational Resources
  
  
• Paletero Man by Lucky Diaz

Vocabulary Program for Homeschoolers

The following post is in collaboration with Wordela Homeschool. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

In homeschooling high school, nurturing a strong vocabulary is a key aspect of holistic education. A rich lexicon empowers students to communicate effectively, think critically, and succeed academically.

As a homeschool parent, I try really hard to find resources that aren't just academically beneficial, but ones that will help my kids throughout their lives. And building their vocabularies is one of those important skills that are at the top of my list. I'm excited to have found Wordela Homeschool as a resource, and wish I had found it sooner. 

Quick Overview

Program: Wordela Homeschool
Religious Perspective: Secular
Format: Self-Paced Online Program
# of Classes: Varies
Ages: 10 and up depending on course
Price: $67/Family - $97/Big Family - $197/Homeschool Co-op

 

The Power of Vocabulary

As a writer, I know that a rich vocabulary equips students with a diverse range of words to express their thoughts clearly and effectively. By mastering a broad lexicon 😃, our kids can articulate their ideas with confidence and precision, whether in written assignments, discussions, or presentations. The ability to choose the most appropriate words enhances communication and promotes self-expression.

Vocabulary development also goes hand in hand with critical thinking skills. As my kids encounter new words and their meanings, they expand their cognitive abilities by: 

• making connections, 
• analyzing context, 
• and drawing inferences. 

A strong vocabulary empowers them to grasp complex concepts more readily, enabling them to engage in deeper levels of analysis and interpretation.

These are pretty important skills that I think my kids need before going to college. In my opinion, developing these skills can not only help them with the college application process (think SAT scores and essay writing), but also once they begin their learning journey at whichever college they decide upon.

Practical Strategies to Build Vocabulary

Here are a few strategies that I have worked to incorporate in my children's homeschool journey.

1. Reading Extensively
   We've looked for ELA programs that encourage my kids to read a variety of literature, including classic novels, contemporary fiction, non-fiction, and thought-provoking articles. Reading exposes kids to diverse vocabulary in context, fostering word acquisition and understanding of nuanced meanings. Discussing unfamiliar words during reading sessions really helps solidify their usage and encourages curiosity.
   
   
2. Word Games and Puzzles
   Make vocabulary-building fun by incorporating word games and puzzles into your homeschool routine. Crossword puzzles, word searches, and word association activities engage my kids in an interactive and enjoyable way. These games not only reinforce vocabulary knowledge but also strengthen memory retention and cognitive skills.
   
   
3. Vocabulary Journals and Flashcards
   Encourage your kids to maintain a vocabulary journal where they can jot down new words, their definitions, and example sentences. Reviewing the journal regularly helps reinforce retention and serves as a handy reference tool. Additionally, creating flashcards with new words and definitions can turn vocabulary practice into a portable learning experience. I haven't done this very much with my son, and I wish I had. But you'll see below how beneficial it is. 

Introducing Wordela Homeschool: A Vocabulary-Building App

Wordela Homeschool is an innovative app designed to enhance vocabulary skills through an engaging and personalized learning experience. It offers various interactive exercises, quizzes, and word games to expand word knowledge. (So this fits into #2 listed above!)

Students can track their progress, set goals, and receive customized recommendations tailored to their proficiency level. We like its user-friendly program and comprehensive word database. So far, the site offers eight courses divided into two categories:

VOCABULARY

• Overnight Vocabulary
• Vocabulary Booster
• Confidence in Context
• ESL Vocabulary
• Corporate Vocabulary

CAREER/SUCCESS

• Productivity
• Career Success
• Brain Training

How It Works

My son has started with the basic course, Vocabulary Booster. He simply logs in to the dashboard and selects a word list. From there, he can choose how he wants to learn. There are four options:

1. AutoLearn™
2. Smart Flashcards
3. Review
4. Zspell

AutoLearn™ presents you with the definition, and you have to select the correct vocabulary word. From what we can tell, it presents 10 words at a time before introducing new vocabulary. 

Smart Flashcards give you the word on a digital flashcard and then you can "flip it over" and see the definition. This one is great for studying.

Review is really cool. It begins by giving you the basics: the word, definition, part of speech and additional definitions (if there's more than one). But what makes this option stand out is that you can select from the Dictionary, Wiktionary, or Wikipedia, and scroll around to read more information about the word. It also lets you track your progress with that word so you can see how you're doing with it. 

And finally, there's Zspell, which is just a really fun way to learn. It's basically a typing game and you "shoot" the spaceships and missiles by typing the word as it falls to the ground. Gamification at its best. :) My 17yo loves it, which I think is hilarious because it's like that first video game from when I was a kid called Space Invaders. 

Actually, Wordela Homeschool is owned by the same company that created Typsey Homeschool! So if you are a Typesy fan, you will probably love this program, too. 

Create Your Own Word Lists

The best part of this program, in my opinion, is that you can create your own word lists based on your child's interests or studies. I created one for his aeronautics interest and course. All I had to do was type in the list of words and the program automatically looked for them in the dictionary and added them to the four different learning paths I mentioned above.

You can do the same with your ELA vocabulary, if you want to make learning the words more engaging using the methods in this program.

Get It For Yourself

If you're looking for a great vocabulary-building program for your kids, and want something more than just printable word lists, we highly recommend this program which takes word lists to the next level! 

If you're convinced, or just want to learn more, visit Wordela Homeschool!

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May Roundup of Conversation Activities in Spanish

Save this roundup of conversation-practice activities in Spanish from Spanish for You! to teach your middle schoolers. 

This post contains affiliate links.

Using Conversation-Practice Activities to Teach Spanish

When it comes to learning Spanish, conversation practice plays a crucial role in helping your child become proficient in the language. While grammar rules and vocabulary are essential, the ability to engage in meaningful conversations is what truly solidifies language skills. By encouraging your child to engage in regular conversation practice, you provide them with opportunities to enhance their speaking and listening abilities, develop confidence, and gain a deeper understanding of the language. Conversations allow for real-life application, enabling your child to express their thoughts, ask questions, and engage in cultural exchange. So, encourage your child to converse in Spanish as much as possible, whether it's with you, their peers, or native speakers. It's through conversation that they'll truly embrace the beauty of the language and unlock the doors to a world of new experiences.

This month, we're sharing a roundup of great resources from MommyMaestra sponsor Spanish for You! This roundup of free activities is focused on conversation practice and they can be found here on MommyMaestra:

• Restaurant Conversation Activity
  
  
• Telling Others to Do Things
  
  
• Spanish Speaking Countries Word Search 
  

For additional conversation practice activity ideas, check out these great posts on Spanish for You!

• Conversation Activity Using Flashcards
  
  
• Conversation Building Idea: Writing Skits
  
  
• Conversation Card Activity

Budget-Friendly Spanish Learning Program

Remember! Spanish for You!'s program is geared for middle schoolers and is the perfect choice for homeschoolers and afterschoolers alike because their concepts are carefully divided up into manageable bundles that are available for immediate download from their website.

If this is your first time here, you can find other free samples from Spanish for You! here. There are some fantastic downloads of games and activities for you and your family to enjoy. If you enjoy this activity, be sure to visit the Spanish for You! website where you'll find tons of additional resources for you to help your young Spanish learner!

Hispanic Heritage Studies for Families

 

Dear readers,

Seventeen years ago, my husband's job moved us half way across the country, away from my family and culture. As a result, I found myself struggling to pass on my heritage to my children. I was really, really sad that they couldn't experience the same cultural traditions that I did as a child. I did my best to look for resources and events to share with them, but wasn't having much luck. 

I worried and fretted that they wouldn't learn to love the beauty of their Spanish & Mexican heritage. So when we were thrust into homeschooling (long story that you can read about elsewhere), I realized that maybe the best way to teach my kids was with printable reading passages, activities, games, and more. 

I began researching and writing and designing. I made resources to use with my kids and then slowly began making them available to other families, who I thought might be struggling like I was.

And then, I decided to keep researching and expand my education materials to include other Hispanic backgrounds and cultures, such as Puerto Rico, Cuba, and so on.

These materials have sold really well on TpT over the years. But I've been worried that my resources aren't really reaching their intended audience: Hispanic families. I love that teachers are using them in classooms, but I worry about the families like mine who need access to products that help them pass on their culture and raise children who are proud of their heritage.

Hispanic Heritage Studies

Early this year, a tiny idea found its way into my head. It's been growing, and growing, and growing until I finally decided to just go for it. And just like that, Hispanic Heritage Studies was born. 

My vision for this program goes like this: 

The Hispanic Heritage Studies program itself will consist of themed modules, including:

• Spanish-Speaking Countries, 
• Holidays & Traditions, 
• Food, 
• Art, 
• Music, and
• Historical Figures (actually, these will be broken up into separate modules: Musicians, Artists, Writers, etc.)

Each module will come with a lesson plan and additional resources that you can print, click on, make, watch, etc. all of which help teach the theme of the module. So you can use the lesson plan or just use the printable resources. Whatever works for your family.

Each theme will include learning resources for K-12th and broken down into the following grades:

1. K - 2nd
2. 3rd - 5th
3. 6th - 8th
4. 9th - 12th

Does this sound interesting to you?

Become a Founding Member

I have already begun assembling my team to work on this program. 

I would love to invite you to join us as a Founding Member. This select group will be the first ones to use my program. And I'm relying on these Founding Members to help shape the vision of this program by telling me what works, what doesn't, and what they'd like to see on it.

As a Founding Member you'll have access with the lowest introductory pricing locked at $15/month or $150 for LIFETIME access, and for all the future bonuses we add, you'll get those, too. These rates and resources are only for Founding Members and will only be available until this Wednesday at 11:59pm CT OR UNTIL we reach the number limit.

I’m limiting the number of Founding Members in order to be able to work with them personally to get feedback. But I already opened it up in our homeschool group and on the MommyMaestra Facebook page and the spaces are filling up. So, if you're interested, please don't wait until Wednesday to sign up. 

If you have ANY questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to me.

Want to learn more about the themed modules and see sample files? You'll find them here.

I’m pretty excited about this program and all that it will have to offer. But I’m most excited about all the children and families who will benefit from it.

Please join us!

Monica

Capybara Lesson Plans, Printables, Crafts, Videos & More

Discover the fascinating world of capybaras with our collection of capybara lesson plans, crafts, printables, videos, and books. Perfect for homeschool or classroom use.

If you are learning about South America or the Amazon Rainforest, you might want to explore the world of capybaras! These adorable and fascinating creatures are the largest rodents in the world and have a lot of interesting features and behaviors to explore. Here are some resources in English and Spanish to help you learn more about capybaras.

This post contains affiliate links.

Lesson Plans & Activity Packs

• Rainforest Biome Animal: Capybara  :: Simply Learning Shop
  This activity packet is great for Montessori style classrooms and home lessons. PreK - 1st grade
  
  
• Capybara Unit Study :: Easygoing Acres
  This unit study is meant for elementary aged students and can be adapted to older elementary students. Approximately a 3 - 4 day unit. K - 5th grade
  
  
• If you are on Study.com: Capybara Facts: Lesson for Kids 
  Best suited for students in elementary grades. **Note: Study.com requires a membership for full access to their lesson plans.
  
  
• Capybaras Reading Passages Comprehension Activities  :: Top Floor Teachers
  This high interest reading comprehension resource about Capybaras covers nonfiction content standards. These activities are perfect for the upper elementary and middle school language arts classroom. 5th - 7th grades.
  
  
• El Capibara: Capybara MiniLesson and Printable Activities for Spanish Class :: OohLaLlama
  Great for SPANISH LESSONS. Help students acquire high frequency language structures naturally while learning about this friendly, fascinating animal. Student-tested and approved! 2nd through 9th grades
  
  
• Capybaras' Revenge (Current Events) - 3 versions + activities in Spanish :: The Comprehensible Classroom by Martina Bex
  La revancha de los carpinchos is a current event from 2021 in the suburbs of Buenos Aires, Argentina. Due to habitat loss, capybaras have invaded private, gated communities in search of food. This resource features three versions of La revancha de los carpinchos, all written in Spanish: Básico, Intermedio, and Avanzado. 7th through 12th grades

Crafts, Printables, & Activities

• Capybara Bead Pattern (Coming soon!)
  This adorable pattern is easy to use with Perler Beads or similar brands. 
  
  
• Capybara Coloring Page from Twinkl
  This simple coloring page is perfect for young children.
  
  
• Capybara Jungle Coloring Page Digital Download by BethNewcott
  This fun coloring page is for older students who may enjoy a more artistic challenge.
  
  
• Capybara Masks Printable Color + Coloring by FrozenPirateMasks
  This is super fun and you have the option of printing a full-color mask or a black-and-white version that your kids can color themselves.
  
  
• How to Draw a Capybara :: HelloArtsy
  Super fun activity.
  
  
• How to Draw a Capybara :: How2DrawAnimals 
  Another, more complex how-to video that is better for older students.
  
  
• Capybara Printable Craft :: LearnCreateLove
  Here's a free and crazy cute cut and glue craft that your younger children will enjoy.
  
  
• Capybara Perler Bead Pattern on Pinterest. Looking 
  
  
• Capybara Coloring Book by PaperLand Publishing
  A good collection for older students (tweens & teens) who like to color more complex pages.
  

Videos

In English:

• What Does the Capybara Say? 5 Fast Facts You NEED to Know About the Capybara! :: Shelby On Safari
  The best video! Have your students watch and then answer the question: Which type of capybara is found in Venezuela?
  
  
• The Biggest Rodent! :: SciShow Kids
  This short video provides an overview of capybara biology and behavior in a fun and engaging way.
  
  
• Capybaras, the Largest and ‘Chillest’ Rodents in the World :: Crazy Creatures
Great video footage and super kid-friendly.

In Spanish:

• El Capibara o Carpincho :: El Blog de Emi
  Your children may wind up loving this channel so much that you subscribe to it.
  
  
• ALL about the CAPIBARA: The largest rodent in the world :: Vidanimal (Spanish w/English subtitles)
  Better for older students.
  
  
• LOS CARPINCHOS :: Tuti Channel
  A Spanish read aloud of the book by Alfredo Soderguit (Also listed below in the Books section.)
  
  
• La historia de la capibara :: Chicos IPe
  A sweet animated story.

Books

Books in English

The Capybaras
by Alfredo Soderguit 

Hens and their chicks love their warm, snug home. Life is simple and comfortable in the chicken coop, where everyone knows their place and worries are far away. Until one day, when the capybaras appear. 

To the hens, the capybaras are too big, too wet, and too hairy. They don’t even follow the rules! But it’s hunting season, and the capybaras need somewhere safe to hide. Can the hens learn to get along with their unexpected guests? 

This delightful story shares the importance of opening our hearts to each other, no matter our differences, and the marvelous surprises that can happen along the way. Ages 4 - 8

You're a Good Friend, Capybara
by Chronicle Books

This lighthearted ode to friendship is delivered by capybaras, gentle giants who are known for their calm demeanor and social friendships with other animals, from dogs and monkeys to turtles and birds. This gift book features charming photography of these cuddly creatures and their assorted animal companions, paired with sweet advice and odes to friendship, straight from nature's experts. This celebration of the capybara's community, love, and kindness towards everyone—regardless of whether they have hooves, claws, or shells—is a must-have gift for friends of all sizes.

Capyboppy
by Bill Peet

The true story and adventures of Capyboppy, the Peet family's pet capybara.

I am a Capybara
by Michela Fabbri 

A capybara is not a mouse, or a beaver, or a bear, and has all sorts of surprising traits you will soon discover. But while every capybara has teeny tiny ears and a gigantic nose, this endearing capybara happens to love poetry and the opera, and even dressing up as a whale! He speaks candidly about his experiences and feelings, and he likes to find common ground with others, like his best friend, a little bird. Although he may appear to be a tough guy, he still likes cuddles and care. 

Capybara
by Megan Borgert-Spaniol 

This children's book is part of the "Rain Forest Animals" series and provides an introduction to capybaras for young readers.

The Mighty Capybara: The Fascinating World of South America's Largest Rodents
by Elli River

In this comprehensive and engaging guide, you'll discover everything you need to know about these charming animals, from their physical characteristics and behavior to their cultural significance and ecological importance. With in-depth chapters covering everything from the history and evolution of capybaras to their role in the ecosystem, reproduction and family life, and even tips for observing and photographing them in the wild, this book is the ultimate resource for anyone interested in these amazing creatures. Best suited for older students in middle school and up.

Books in Spanish

Los carpinchos
por Alfredo Soderguit 

El capibara con botas
por Mira Canion

***Language Learner Literature An easy Spanish reader containing just 55 new vocabulary words and English-Spanish cognates. 

Normal capybaras swim well. Carlos is the only capybara in the Amazon Rainforest who can't swim. Things don't look good for Carlos away from the water.

El gran viaje de Capy: La capibara aventurera
por Jose Navarro Hernández 

A lo largo de su viaje, Capy descubre nuevos lugares y se encuentra con diferentes animales y desafíos que pondrán a prueba su valor y coraje. Con la ayuda de sus amigos, Capy aprenderá importantes lecciones sobre la importancia de la amistad, el trabajo en equipo y la perseverancia.

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Children's Books that Feature Venezuela

This week, we're diving into South America again! This time, we're sharing a roundup of some amazing children's books that feature Venezuela. 

We know you'll find some of these stories absolutely engaging and want to add them to your home library!

This post contains affiliate links.

Picture Books with Venezuelan Characters

There aren't a lot of Venezuelan-themed children's books that I could find, so in stead of separating them by language (English, Spanish, or bilingual), I'm just listing them all here. 

Dancing Hands: How Teresa Carreño Played the Piano for President Lincoln (English)

Manos que bailan: Cómo Teresa Carreño tocó el piano para el presidente Lincoln (Spanish)

by Margarita Engle

I had never heard of Teresa Carreño, the prodigy pianist from Venezuela who began playing the piano as a little girl and composing her own music by the time she was 6. Not only did she play for President Lincoln as noted in this lovely story, but apparently for the famous composers Rossini and Liszt, too!

In Dancing Hands, we learn about Teresa's love of music and how she developed her talent in her homeland of Venezuela. We also read about how she and her family were forced to flee to the United States when Venezuala erupted in a revolution...only to arrive in the middle of the U.S. Civil War. The story goes on to chronicle the events that led to her performing for President Lincoln and his family in the White House.

Roberto's Trip to the Top (English only)
by John B. Paterson Jr.

Breathtaking vistas and bustling scenes await a boy and his uncle when they ride the teleférico to the top of a mountain in Venezuela.

Up, up, up goes Roberto, aboard a cable car, heading to the top of El Avila. Share his excitement as he sees deep ravines and spectacular views, and meets the people and wildlife that live on the mountainside, on his first big adventure!

Wings and Dreams: The Legend of Angel Falls (bilingual)

by Irania Macías Patterson

The highest waterfall in the world, Venezuela's magnificent Angel Falls, is the backdrop for a newly imagined folktale vibrantly illustrated with full-color original art.

A dark shadow falls over the Pemones Indians as conquerors from the north invade the ancient land. A wise shaman sends young Takupi on a perilous journey to seek out safety for his people in a secret southern land seen only in the shaman's dreams. It's a place where man can touch the soft clouds, grateful eagles carry children on their backs, and rushing waters bathe a scorched and withering land.

Armed with only a few token gifts to protect him, Takupi must face frightening obstacles in his quest. Along the way, he discovers, as everyone must, the depth of his own courage--and his destiny.

Chipi Chipis, Small Shells of the Sea / Chipi Chipis, Caracolitos Del Mar (bilingual)

by Irania Macías Patterson

Nature, sea and wind take on a life of their own in this beautiful tale inspired by authentic Venezuelan family traditions. Original illustrations help tell the story all while introducing the reader to a new language and culture.

The Caiman (English version)
La caimana (Spanish version)

When Faoro the clockmaker adopts a baby alligator, he has no idea that someday their story will travel far and wide. But the town of San Fernando de Apure would never forget this kind young man and his adoring alligator, who played with the neighborhood children, took part in Faoro’s wedding, and, eventually, mourned his loss. Now their story is being shared with the world.

In this delightful picture book first published in Venezuela, the author brings us back to her own childhood in Venezuela, as one of the children who used to visit this famous caiman, to tell the story of a man who loved animals and how his friendship with his alligator sparked a lasting legacy.

Venezuela ABCs: A Book About the People and Places of Venezuela

Oil, mangoes, and Angel Falls. International beauty contest winners and the golden legend of El Dorado. Wander inside this beautiful book to learn the ABCs of what makes Venezuela a South American jewel.

Fun Facts About Venezuela

Pair any of these books with my Fun Facts About Venezuela: A Country Coloring Activity. This download is an excellent introduction or supplement to a lesson on Peru. 

It includes a printable map and fact passage! Just have your kids read about a person, place, or thing related to Venezuela, then have them find it on the map and color it in. Available in English or Spanish, it's simple and fun.

This product now contains an added page of additional learning resources to extend the learning with related books, online articles, and videos.

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