August 3, 2026
For this month’s Culture Corner, Healthi Kids is celebrating Caribbean community, family traditions, food, music, and the many ways culture helps children feel connected and proud of who they are. With the annual Carifest, August is a great time for families in Rochester to explore Caribbean culture through stories, shows, local celebrations, and new foods.
Read: Freedom Soup by Tami Charles, illustrated by Jacqueline Alcántara. This vibrant picture book follows a child and grandmother as they make a traditional Haitian soup and share the story of Haitian independence. It celebrates family, food, music, history, and cultural traditions passed from one generation to the next.
Watch: Lyla in the Loop on PBS KIDS. This animated series follows Jamaican-American Lyla Loops, her family, friends, and sidekick Stu as they use creativity and problem-solving to help their family and community. Designed for children ages 4 to 8, the show regularly incorporates Caribbean food, culture, and heritage into its storylines.
Keep Learning: Families can celebrate Caribbean culture locally at the 40th Carifest parade and festival, taking place on August 7 and 8 at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park at Manhattan Square. The event features Caribbean culture, music, food, colorful costumes, dance performances, and a parade. Can’t make the festivities? Families can keep learning throughout the month by trying Caribbean food together at a local restaurant or market. Invite your kids to notice colors, smells, textures, and ingredients, and talk about how food helps families share stories and traditions.
Conversation starter: As you read, watch, taste, or explore, ask your child to name one family tradition that makes them feel happy, loved, or connected.