Ways to Celebrate AANHPI Heritage Month with Your Preschooler

May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month. It’s a great opportunity to introduce your preschooler to the diverse stories, traditions, and cultures that make up the AANHPI community.

More than 26 million people in the United States identify as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, or Pacific Islander. Each May, communities across the country celebrate AANHPI Heritage Month to honor the significant contributions and rich traditions of these vibrant communities. We’ve gathered family-friendly activities, helpful resources, and local Denver events to help you celebrate AANHPI heritage with your little ones.

Activities and Resources to Celebrate AANHPI Heritage Month

Reading and storytelling are powerful ways preschoolers learn. There are countless books by Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander authors and illustrators that can help bring AANHPI heritage to life. PBS Parents shared a list of family-favorite books that celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander heritage. Cozy up and read one (or more!) of these celebrated stories.

Watching movies together is a fun way for families to explore the rich histories of AANHPI communities. Beloved Disney films like “Lilo & Stitch,” “Mulan,” and “Moana” feature AANHPI characters and share cultural stories through music and adventure. For a special movie night, head to Music at the Movies on May 28 at Traditions Neighborhood Park in Aurora. Starting at 5 p.m., the event includes a performance by the Kalama Polynesian Dancers followed by an outdoor screening of “Moana 2”.

Explore art projects, virtual field trips, and other engaging resources that celebrate the rich history and traditions of AANHPI communities – all designed for you and your little one to learn together. Discover lessons, book lists, and more below.

• Celebrating Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
• Free Learning Resources to Celebrate Asian American Heritage
• 5 Easy Crafts to Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month

Family-Friendly AANHPI Events in Denver

Denver offers a variety of family-friendly events and resources throughout AANHPI Heritage Month. Denver Public Library hosts celebration days at local branches for families to enjoy snacks and explore popular games from across Asia.

Whether you’re reading stories, making art, or exploring a local cultural event, every experience helps your preschooler grow. Introducing them to diverse cultures fosters curiosity, empathy, and a more inclusive view of the world.