Did you know that the Cuban "Queen of Salsa" Celia Cruz, originally studied to become a literature teacher? But she interrupted her studies to pursue singing opportunities that eventually led to stardom. She has become beloved by generations all over the world for her operatic voice, flamboyant costumes and intimate relation to the music of Salsa. I've listed resources available for educators and parents below. If you want to learn about other important figures, check out my post on Latinos in History Your Children Should Know.
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Lesson Plans for Celia Cruz
Elementary Lessons
- Here's a elementary lesson plan from the University of Arizona that contains 10 activities you can use with students while reading the book "My name is Celia, The life of Celia Cruz" by Monica Brown.
- Music Library Box has this fun Look-Listen-Learn lesson for young students
- The Consortium of Latin American Studies Programs has this downloadable Celia lesson plan for K - 4
- Education.com has this free Celiz Cruz worksheet available to download: Celia Cruz: Historical Heroes (2nd grade)
Resources for Middle & High School
- The Smithsonian has some excellent multimedia resources available online.
- Also, Smithsonian Music has this page with information about the Cuban singer.
- CeliaCruz.com has some fantastic images and biographical write ups on it that would be of interest to students working on research papers and posters.
Kid-Friendly Videos for Celia Cruz
- Celia Cruz loved Sesame Street and was on the show several times. Here's are links to videos featuring the singer on the show:
- Celia Cruz Sings Songo's Song
- Celia Cruz - Sesame Street
- Classic Sesame Street Celia Sings With The Cast
- For a children's video IN SPANISH, I really like this one: CONOCE A CELIA CRUZ
Here's my favorite biography video for kids of any age from Cultura Colectiva Plus: The History Machine: Celia Cruz
Read Alouds
Here are a couple of video read alouds of two different children's biographies about Celia Cruz.
- My Name Is Celia: The Life of Celia Cruz by Monica Brown read-aloud by Tu ē Yo Reading Adventures
- Celia Cruz, Queen of Salsa read-aloud by Mr. Alicea's Arcade of Knowledge
Activities & Crafts
- Salsa with Celia Cruz - Primary Music Lesson by Music with Ms. P is a fun activity for younger students.
- Art with Jenny K has this collaborative poster for K - 8th.
- Mundo de Pepita has this Celia Cruz Spanish Minibook and Activity Theme Pack for 3-7th
- Palm Beach County Library has the CUTEST little paper doll craft.
- Ms. Haynes has this Art Lesson- How to draw Celia Cruz
Books
by Lisbeth Kaiser
It's also available in Spanish:
¿Quién fue Celia Cruz?: ¿Quién fue? Un libro de cartón
It's also available in Spanish:
¿Quién fue Celia Cruz?: ¿Quién fue? Un libro de cartón
by Veronica Chambers
by Monica Brown
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