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Ever have a paleta? They’re yummy Mexican popsicles made from fruit, including strawberries and mango. My favorite is coconut.

And there’s no better time to introduce them to the kids, along with dishes like paella, ceviche or different kinds of tacos, than during National Hispanic Heritage Month, which lasts until Oct. 15 and celebrates the cultures and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans.

In case you didn’t know, Hispanic refers to a person who is from, or a descendant of, someone who is from, a Spanish-speaking country; Latino/a or Latinx refers to a person who is from, or a descendant of, someone who is from, a country in Latin America.

If you are wondering why Hispanic Heritage Month started in mid-September and lasts until mid-October, it is because five Latin American countries — El Salvador, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Honduras — celebrate their Independence Day on Sept.15. Mexico celebrates its Independence Day on September 16 and Chile on Sept.18. Dia de la Raza, or Columbus Day, also falls within this month, on October 12.

The Hispanic population of the United States totals 60.6 million people, making it the largest ethnic group. In honor of National Hispanic Heritage Month, StoryCorps is sharing stories and tools to help you celebrate the contributions, achievements and lived experiences of Latinx people across the United States.

Teach the kids to play dominos, Good Housekeeping suggests. Dominos, a tile game, is especially popular in Puerto Rican, Dominican and Cuban cultures. Create a new playlist for your next road trip.

Cook a new dish with the kids or go to a Hispanic neighborhood restaurant and try a dish you haven’t had – empanadas maybe? Paella?

The Greater Philadelphia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce brings together 19 Latino restaurants for Dine Latino Restaurant Week, Oct. 11 to 15. With each purchase of two entrees, diners get a free dessert or appetizer. Participating restaurants range from casual street food to empanada specialist Jezabel’s Cafe to upscale taquerias.

On Oct. 3, learn how to make Tres Leches Cake at a free virtual baking class hosted by Alexandria Library. “From Politics to Pastry” chef Amy Duvall will demonstrate in real time how to make the creamy dessert, register here.

Explore a museum you haven’t visited. Chicago boasts the National Museum of Mexican Art and the National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture.

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