10.18.07

Our classrooms of today are so diverse.  All the more reason for us to take upon the responsibility of raising multi- cultural citizens!  Thanks to A.J. and Meg, both of whom had the pleasure of meeting Tracey Douglas at the ABC Kids Expo, I am so appreciative of the opportunity to "globe trot with a tot" while viewing the
"One Wee World Celebrates Mexico" DVD. This is the premiere DVD that Tracey Douglas has created as part of her vision to help us learn how to raise global children by teaching them about different world cultures. This DVD has been recognized by several prestigious awards, and I can see why.

This production is truly a celebration of Mexico, its traditions and ancient customs that remain visible in modern day society. Throughout the entire DVD, I was enchanted with the Mexican music that plays in the background. As I listened to beautiful Spanish songs, and watched as various guitars, flutes, and drums were played, I really appreciated the fusion of music with spectacular views of Mexico; the ancient ruins and churches, beautiful landscape with tropical, coastal views. I caught myself swaying and tapping my feet to the uplifting beat more than twice!

I loved that Ambassador Tracey and her cartoon friend, Kiki, led us on a tour of Mexico with real- life photos and captions of children and adults dancing to the background music, dressed in customary, brightly colored costumes…children playing soccer games, playing with piñatas, and making colorful artwork.  I thought, "What a great way to introduce images to little ones, and to activate prior knowledge when teaching a story or social studies lesson that entails Mexican heritage."
 
My favorite part is an interactive "sounds like" game. Kiki would be shown holding her ear to a noise, silently asking viewers to listen and try to figure out what they are hearing. As one begins to associate the sound, a picture is shown of what the noise sounds like. I heard sounds of wind blowing fiercely, bird's wings flapping, and waves crashing on shores, all of which turned out to be the sounds coming from a multitude of instruments that are part of the magic of Mexican music!!  It was so much fun!

Tracey Douglas certainly met her goal to make it a mission to help us help children to embrace the Mexican culture. I was so impressed by her unique way of emphasizing the important values that are the heart of Mexico:  strong family ties, games and dances that are performed together, all the while embracing the love for drama, the arts, and music. I know children of all ages with be just as entertained and educated as adults, so give your tot the chance to globe trot! Tracey reminds us that it is a small world, a "One Wee World," after all.