Cinco de Mayo, which commemorates the victory of the Mexican army over the French army, isn't just an excuse to down a margarita. It also offers an opportunity to give kids a dose of Mexican culture. The history lesson doesn't have to be a formal one though.

Whether you are a parent, friend, relative or teacher, here are some fun ways to teach children a little bit about the fifth of May, Mexican- style.


• Teach kids how to count to 10 in Spanish (uno, dos, tres, cuatro, cinco, seis, siete, ocho, nueve and diez).


• Play hide and seek, but kids must count to 10 in Spanish. And they can say, "¡Ya voy!" instead of, "Here I come."


• Play Mexican jumping beans. Have kids jump like jumping beans to the beat of Mexican music. They should stop when the music stops. Anyone who moves after the music stops is out. Play until one winner remains.


• Ask kids to make a list of victories they can celebrate in their life. Maybe it's learning how to do long division or making a new friend.


• Throw a kid-oriented fiesta (that means no alcohol). Serve chips, salsa and guacamole. Pass out sombreros and play Mexican music. Play a game of pinata.