Spanish Is My Superpower

It’s hard for children — and  adults —  to handle scary or hurtful encounters, and it can be difficult to know how to respond. Share this video with children to explore social problem-solving skills that can build their resilience. 

Before viewing the video together with children, explain that you’re going to watch a video about a time Rosita and her Mami were in the supermarket and some people told them to stop speaking Spanish. 

During viewing, you can pause to answer any questions children may have. You can point out the different strategies Rosita and her Mami used: Because they felt scared and uncomfortable, they chose not to respond. Later, they talked about it and called the store to report what had happened. 

After viewing: 

• Ask children why they thought Rosita’s Mami decided it was better to walk away rather than speak up. Explain that Rosita’s and Mami’s only job was to take care of themselves. 

• Remind them that if they don’t feel safe, it’s always better to remove themselves from the situation and find a grown-up. Grown-ups can remove themselves from situations in which they don’t feel safe, also. 

If children know another language, remind them that they have a superpower like Rosita’s. Knowing two (or more) languages is great for building your brain! What other superpowers — special skills or strengths — do children have?