7 Things to do for Day of the Dead With Your Children -

A few years ago, while working for the Cultural Program of Raleigh, I had the opportunity to participate in the planning of a city event for the Day of the Dead. For this event, we partnered with the Mexican Consulate and the city museum staff to make sure we were bringing all the elements of the Day of the Dead to the public.

To say I LOVED the experience is an understatement.

It was fascinating to learn about the meaning behind every symbol that is part of the Day of the Dead celebrations in Mexico and other areas of Central America. The whole experience was very touching to me and I hope it was the same for all the people that came to our event.

7 Things To Do for Day of the Dead With Your Children

Since that day, Catrinas, papel picado, sugar skulls, marigolds and pan muerto are part of my celebration. Although, I didn’t grow up with these traditions, I try every year to make sure my kids are familiar with them.

Here are a few things that you can do for Day of the Dead with your children.

Build an Altar

In Mexico, many families make an ofrenda (altar) in their homes on a table or shelves to pay tribute to their loved ones who have passed on. This is a collection of treasures, pictures, food, special items and candles to remind the families of their loved ones. Check out all essential components of a Day of the Dead altar and learn how to set up your own.

Read Bilingual Books for Day of the Dead

There are great children’s books that provide a good understanding of The Day of the Dead. If you are passing this beautiful tradition to your kids or if you are trying to learn more about the Day of the Dead in Mexico, the following bilingual books are great resources.

The Day of the Dead / El Día De Los Muertos

This is a MUST have bilingual book for Day of the Dead! It’s actually the book that my office chose to read to the kids that were attending the event. It provides great information on this holidays through the colorful pictures and story.

I Remember Abuelito: A Day of the Dead Story / Yo Recuerdo a Abuelito: Un Cuento del Día de los Muertos

This is the story of a young girl helping her family to honor those who have died-especially her grandpa. It gives others an outlook of this beautiful tradition and help children to connect to the Mexican culture.

Read full more bilingual books for the Day of the Dead here

Make Sugar Skulls

Next weekend, we are planning to make sugar skulls for the first time. They look super easy and fun to make. I will be following this recipe. Do you have a favorite sugar skulls recipe?

Color Day of the Dead Pages

Coloring is always a hit with children! Check out these free coloring pages that I made for you:

Sugar Skulls Coloring Page Catrina Coloring Page

Make a Day of the Dead Bread

This sweet bread varies from region to region, but the most common shape is round with pieces of dough in the top that represents bones. It’s delicious! We usually get our pan de muerto or day of the bread from our favorite panadería. But I need to try to make it a home with this recipe.