Differences between American (Anglo) and Latin American cultures, particularly the culture of Puerto Rico, in the area of non-verbal communication (NVC) are examined in this work. Specific contrasts in language and kinesic patterns between the two cultures are illustrated in descriptions of communicative gestures employed by Puerto Ricans in the following: smiling; staring and eye contact; silence vs. noise; clothes; money matters; laughter and play; frankness vs. reticence; and in greetings, farewells and interruptions. A case study of linguistic and non-verbal characteristics of Puerto Rican school children in Brooklyn is presented to further illustrate NVC contrasts between the two cultures. Implicit in this examination is NVC's potential role in improving intercultural communication. It is suggested that studies of NVC should be included in American bilingual and English as a Second Language programs. A list of references is also provided in this document. (Author/EB)