Stories, Activities, Recipes & Crafts
Your Family Fun Hub
A Terrifying Lesson in Childhood Independence
Reflecting on a summer vacation in the Great Smoky Mountains and the terrifying moment I tumbled down a slope on a 1970s family road trip. That childhood moment of defiant independence against my parents’ loving warnings taught me the difference between reckless independence and cautious guidance.
Holiday or Any Day Cranberry Salsa
Cranberry with an attitude. Discover the recipe that reinvents cranberry relish into a dynamic, spicy-sweet salsa, perfect for your holiday spread (or your charcuterie board). Learn a few simple tweaks that "Mexican-ize" this holiday staple with bright lime juice, a fiery kick of jalapeño, and some spices in every Latina’s kitchen (including cilantro as an option).
🍂 Thanksgiving in La Grulla: Home Sweet Home
An Exclusive “El Camino Destino” Story Featuring Tristan, Pete, Eliu and their Thanksgiving upon returning to La Grulla after a spring and summer of migrant farm work.
Finding Magic on the Maumee River in Ohio
Discover how the quiet magic of the historic Defiance Public Library, a historic Carnegie Libary—built on the site of Fort Defiance—shaped a young girl into a children's author, proving that quiet reading is the ultimate source of creativity and mental peace.
The Power of My Stripes
A single moment of painful childhood discrimination can fuel decades of identity struggle. This is a story about reclaiming what makes us each unique and teaching children that being different is what makes them special and is their greatest strength and boldest design.
Seriously, Go Color!
Discover the therapeutic power of coloring. Coloring can serve as a powerful form of active meditation and mindfulness. By focusing attention on the coloring pages, children and adults can effectively silence their daily worries, reduce stress and anxiety, and bring themselves fully into the present moment.
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month Thru Reading & Learning
Reflecting on Hispanic Heritage Month and the importance of reading and education.. Three simple ways we can empower children.
The Family Legacy of the "é" in El Rancho Chocolaté
The name El Rancho Chocolaté isn't a mistake; it's a magical family story about a curandera who, upon discovering the richness of her land, created a healing chocolate brew so powerful it inspired an accent mark.
Celebrate Fall with Flavor: How to Make Pumpkin Empanadas
Get into the spirit of the season with a Mexican American twist! Celebrate fall with warm, flaky pumpkin empanadas, a cherished treat that's perfect for making with the whole family.
El Rancho Chocolaté: A Bilingual Adventure
El Rancho Chocolaté can be used as a wonderful tool for cultural immersion and language learning. The book helps Latine children feel "seen" by reflecting their own language, while also inviting non-Spanish speaking children to explore a new culture. Check out some practical tips for parents and educators on how to use the story as a fun and effective teaching resource.
Your Own Treasure Chest Adventure!
X Marks the Spot (for Your Keepsakes!): DIY Treasure Chest Fun! Join us for a super fun DIY Treasure Chest Box crafting event! This project is all about making a special box to hold something that has deep meaning to you—whether it's a tiny note from a friend, a shiny pebble from a favorite trip, or a drawing that makes you smile.
Autumn Evenings and Mom's Kitchen: A Mexican-American Childhood Tale
Mom's Buñuelos: A Family Tradition. Experience a cherished family tradition! Learn to make crispy buñuelos and rich, spiced Mexican hot cocoa. A taste of childhood and the perfect cozy treat.
Making El Rancho Chocolaté's Magic Cocoa Mix
Inspired by the mystery of El Rancho Chocolaté, we're turning a simple recipe into a thrilling adventure!
El Rancho Chocolaté: My Own Milagro Story Charm Bracelet
El Rancho Chocolaté Milagro Bracelet Workshop. From the Pages of the Storybook to Your Hands: Making the Real Treasures of El Rancho Chocolaté
Guacadile Monster Recipe Starting with my Signature Guacamole.
Holy Moly Guacamole! A simple easy recipe for guacamole and creative ways to serve it for kids and just for fun!
Unlock the Magic: A Parent & Educator's Guide to El Rancho Chocolaté
A comprehensive guide for parents & educators to enrich the reading experience of El Rancho Chocolaté. It provides tips for mindful read-alouds, conversation starters for deeper discussions, and a variety of hands-on activities, from crafting to a "Chocolate Treasure Hunt," all designed to connect with the book's themes of family, culture, and social-emotional learning.
Raspas: A Sweet and Refreshing Mexican American Treat!
Chill Out This Summer: How to Make Kid-Friendly Homemade Raspas. How to make Mexican American inspired raspas (snow cones) with savory and sweet syrups and topped with fresh fruits.