Former cradle of the Mayan and Aztec civilizations, Mexico is a country with an enormous cultural, historical and gastronomic wealth. Without a doubt, one of the aspects that identifies it throughout the world is its exquisite gastronomy, who does not know Mexican burritos, nachos or tacos? But this is not his only attribute. From the popular Day of the Dead and its carnival celebrations to its vibrant alebrije crafts and its typical traditional costumes, Mexico has many symbols and customs that are worth knowing.
A simple way to bring children closer to Mexican culture and its traditions is precisely through the maps of Mexico. It is an excellent didactic tool that will allow them to know where the country is located, what area it occupies and which are its neighboring countries. Of course, through the maps you will also be able to get to know its different states and some of the most important cities in the country, as well as learn about the most significant mountains, rivers, and valleys in Mexico.
Without a doubt, it is an excellent opportunity for children to discover the secrets that this nation hides, while at the same time becoming familiar with other cultures, which will teach them to be more open and tolerant in the future. To make your job easier, at Children’s Stage we have compiled a selection of some of the most representative maps of Mexico. From physical maps that represent the geography of the country and political maps that delimit the main divisions of this region to cultural maps so that children know the customs and icons that identify Mexicans.
7 maps of Mexico for children to know this country
1. Political map
This political map of Mexico represents the main political-administrative divisions of this country. Divided into 31 states and with almost 2,500 municipalities, the map delimits the different Mexican territories, identifying the name of each state, its capital, and some of the most significant cities in each region. Being represented in various colors, it is not only easier for children to understand, but it also allows each zone to be identified more easily and quickly. And so that no detail is lost, it includes the names of some cities in the interior numbered and marked off the map.
2. Map of states
A simple way for children to learn the different states of Mexico, at least the most important ones, is with this state map. It is a map with a 3D effect that includes the main delimitations between states, as well as the name of each of them. From Chihuahua and Sonora through Jalisco and Guanajuato to Chiapas and Yucatán to the south, the 31 states of the country are represented on this single-color map. Without a doubt, a very cool map that children can print and hang in their room to test their knowledge of Mexico every time they see it.
3. Physical map
Mexico is a country with great natural wealth. From imposing mountains to beautiful valleys and paradisiacal beaches, the country treasures different types of terrain in its 1,973 million square kilometers of extension. With this physical map, children will be able to learn a little about the geography of the country, recognize the coastal cities, the mountainous settlements and locate some of the lakes and rivers that originate in this nation. They will also be able to identify the islands that are in their vicinity and the gulfs that bathe the territory.
4. Administrative map
Administrative maps precisely describe the administrative organization of a territory, especially in terms of borders, divisions and capitals. This administrative map of Mexico represents the main internal divisions of the country, indicating the names of the states and the capitals of each region. Unlike other similar maps, it also includes the border of the country with its neighboring nations, so that children will be able to identify the countries with which Mexico borders. It is worth noting that it is a very simple map to interpret since, in addition to the borders, each region is drawn in a different color to make it easier to recognize each area.
5. Culture map
Mexico is a very rich country culturally. The heritage of the Mayan and Aztec culture has left many unique customs and traditions that the smallest of the house should know. This map precisely represents some of the main symbols and characteristic elements of each region of the country and its people. From the typical Mexican hat and alebrije crafts to the iconic skull of the Day of the Dead and the Mexican maracas, the map includes some of its most important emblems. Likewise, it represents the most typical animals and plants of the country, among which are the cactus of the Mexican desert, the hot pepper and the turtle.
6. Three-dimensional and silent map
This blank map of Mexico is an excellent alternative for children to exercise their knowledge about this country and learn to locate at least its states and most important cities. The map, also drawn in 3D, represents the different states with a different color to make it easier for the little ones at home. Ideal for printing so that children can write the names of the cities on the map, it is an excellent teaching resource with which to test their memory and spatial skills.
7. Ancient Map
Did you know that Texas was once part of Mexico? This old map of Mexico represents the territory that the country occupied before independence from Spain and the annexation of some of its regions to the United States. Undoubtedly, a simple and educational way for children to learn about the history of Mexico, its war of independence with the Spanish metropolis and later with the United States. It is worth noting that thanks to its vintage touch, it can also become an excellent decorative element for the children’s room.