Archeology as an educational tool for contributing to knowledge of cultural identity in childhood

This study examines the integration of archaeology and pedagogy as an educational strategy aimed at fostering cultural identity in childhood. From a multidisciplinary perspective, the workshop “Little archaeologists: Discovering the ancient world” was designed and implemented, incorporating participatory activities such as simulated excavations and symbolic representation through Mesoamerican deity masks. The research was conducted in three different contexts in Veracruz, Mexico, involving children aged 6 to 12, allowing for the observation of variations in engagement and knowledge appropriation depending on the sociocultural environment. Findings indicate that playful and experiential methodologies enhance understanding of archaeological heritage, strengthen the sense of belonging, and stimulate curiosity about the past. Direct interaction with archaeological materials and practices generated higher levels of engagement compared to traditional memorization-based approaches. The study shows that early heritage education contributes to the formation of individuals aware of the value of their cultural legacy and their role in its preservation, highlighting the importance of collaboration between archaeology and pedagogy in developing meaningful educational practices.