What better way to learn about a culture and its values than by talking to people who represent the culture?

Some of the people interviewed were friends, a Colombian Restaurant server, co-workers, missionaries, and my Spanish tutor! Everyone was very kind to answer questions and appreciative that we’d ask about their country. The kids became more confident in asking the questions and more thoughtful in follow-up questions.

Activity Directions:

1. Make a list of questions to ask.
   • Tip: We put them on sticky notes so we could rearrange based on interviewee.
     • What city do you live in?
     • What do you like to do in Colombia?
     • What foods do Colombians like to eat?
     • Describe what Colombians are like.
2. Set up interview times in person or virtual.
   • Who do you know that is from the place you’re visiting?
   • Anyone who has visited there before?
   • Are there online forums or organizational contacts that you could reach out to?
3. Get a travel journal ready for notes.
   • Tip: Have a map available for kids to reference places mentioned.
   • Reflection connection: have kids add a star to notes that connect to what they’ve learned or are excited about. After the trip, they could circle notes that connected to their experience.
4. During the interview, kids take notes using words and pictures.
   • Tip: Ask kids to share something they’re excited to see or do on your trip from the interview information. This is a meaningful way to show value and appreciation to the interviewee.
5. Table talk: While on the trip, ask your kids what they’ve noticed that connects to information shared during the interview?