2026 RITMO JARDÍN
Ritmo Jardín is a vibrant, 9-week cultural enrichment program designed to introduce children in grades K–7 to the richness and diversity of American Latino heritage. Through movement, storytelling, and immersive language lessons, children will explore the traditions, rhythms, and histories that shape Latin America’s cultural legacy and impact of American Latinos in the United States — all while having fun and building confidence.
Throughout the program, children will learn a variety of traditional Latin dance styles, including Bomba, Salsa (older cohorts), Merengue, and Bachata. In each session, students will have the opportunity to choose between participating in dance or percussion (limited to 10 spots for percussion instruction).
Each weekly session is structured in two parts:
40 min of dance or percussion instruction, focused on movement, musicality, and cultural rhythm
40 min of language and history, introducing foundational Spanish vocabulary and exploring Latino heritage through a lens that fits how they think, question, and grow — building from curiosity about the people around them toward the confidence to shape their own communities.
The program culminates in a live performance at the Latino Heritage Celebration on Sunday, September 20, where students will showcase what they’ve learned through music, movement, and bilingual storytelling.
PROGRAM DETAILS
TIME: Mondays 5:30 PM – 8:45 PM
LOCATION: The Hub / United Way Building
AGES: Kindergarten – 7th Grade
5–8 years old (Grades K–3)
9–12 years old (Grades 4–7)
SESSIONS
Session 1 (5:30PM - 7:00PM) 5–8 years old (Grades K–3)
Session 2 (7:15PM - 8:45PM) 9–12 years old (Grades 4–7)
WHAT YOUR CHILD WILL LEARN
Each age group explores Latino heritage through an age appropriate lens that fits how they think, question, and grow — building from curiosity about the people around them toward the confidence to shape their own communities.
Ages 5–6 · Our Friends & Their Stories
Our youngest learners begin with a simple, joyful question: Who are our neighbors? Through songs, stories, traditions, and celebrations, they meet the people and cultures that make our community vibrant — discovering culture as something to feel, hear, and dance to.Ages 7–8 · From Roots to Routes
At this age, children start connecting people, places, and identity. They'll ask How did Latino communities come to New Jersey? and explore migration stories and cultural connections — learning that every family carries a journey worth celebrating.Ages 9–10 · Mapping History
Older children reflect on how culture shapes who we are. Guided by the question How has history shaped these communities?, they'll examine key historical events, influential figures, and the lasting impact of Latino communities — and begin to see themselves as part of a larger story.Ages 11–12 · Building the Future: Voices & Leadership
Our oldest students step into leadership. They'll explore How can we shape the future? by examining identity, investigating current issues, conducting interviews, and creating community projects they present to others.
WEEKLY SCHEDULE
Program Dates (Monday Evenings 5:30–8:45 PM)
Week 1: Monday, July 20
Week 2: Monday, July 27
Week 3: Monday, August 3
Week 4: Monday, August 10
Week 5: Monday, August 17
Week 6: Monday, August 24
Week 7: Tuesday, September 8 (Due to Labor Day)
Week 8: Monday, September 14 (Rehearsal)
Week 9: Friday, September 19 (Final Rehearsal)
Performance: Sunday, September 20 – Latino Heritage Celebration
PROGRAM COST
$275 total program per child inclusive of performance attire (~$30 per class)
$25 discount per additional child (Sibling Discount)
We understand that not every family may be able to afford this fee. If the cost is a barrier, we invite you to complete our Need-Based Scholarship application HERE.
IN PARTNERSHIP