REAL SOUTH AMERICA ENCOUNTER

As a childcare volunteer in Costa Rica, you will provide additional support to childcare projects within the Coronado community. Not only this, PMGY’s Costa Rica volunteer programs provide a great foundation to improve your Spanish. Combine your Spanish learning and enthusiasm for childcare projects to make the most out of your volunteer with children in Costa Rica experience!

BACKGROUND TO THE CHILDCARE PROGRAM

Compared to other parts of Latin America, Costa Rica benefits from good standards of living and higher levels of education. Yet families from poorer backgrounds and more disadvantaged communities still face times of hardship. More specifically, they rely on the support of the wider community and social initiatives to help them get by.

Much of this assistance comes from local organisations or religious associations within the local area. For example, the local church will raise funds and host events to provide activities and support for underprivileged children and communities. Due to the interaction of the church, there is a big Christianity influence. Volunteers will encounter this on a consistent basis within the local community.

In addition to this, many parents who can find work will be working long hours. They will start working early in the morning and work well into the evening. The state and community support this by providing affordable, subsidised and well-resourced day-care centres. Coronado has a series of nurseries for young children to attend. At these nurseries, children are provided meals, education and a place to rest.

The projects in Costa Rica are well resourced and maintained. This is a positive example of money going into the right places for infrastructure and community development. Whilst it may not be so visually evident, many of the children at these projects come from poorer more disadvantaged backgrounds. When these families cannot afford new uniforms for their children the wider community will step in and provide.

Therefore, the volunteer need at these projects is different and not as apparent to other projects. Facilities are good and resources are plentiful. In contrast to this, many of the children come from disadvantaged backgrounds. They face much more challenging living standards outside of the project.

When you are abroad volunteering, your primary role is brighten up the days of these children. The project environment provides a great foundation for volunteers to facilitate this. As you volunteer with children in Costa Rica, your support from the local staff is much appreciated. This is because the ratio of caregivers to children can stretch up to 1:25 at times. The children are very cute and full of energy so get ready for craft time, meals and lots of singing!

To ensure our volunteers are equipped the childcare program will include 1 week of Spanish language classes to start your project! Thus when you travel to Costa Rica, these lessons that take place during your first week will set you up well for your volunteering experience.

Volunteer opportunities in Costa Rica provided by PMGY will provide you with a platform to make a positive impact. When working at our childcare volunteer abroad projects in Costa Rica, it is important to maintain energy, enthusiasm and creativity. For the reason that many of these children will be seeking the care and attention that you as a childcare volunteer in Costa Rica can bring. To volunteer with children in Costa Rica, you will need to donate your time and skills effectively. This is to ensure you can maximise your impact on the local people.

CHILDCARE VOLUNTEER PLACEMENT EXAMPLES

Tu Mundo de Colores – Located near downtown Coronado, the project is home to around 50 children each day. As you complete volunteer work in Costa Rica at this project, you will play a key role in supporting the more limited local support team.

The ages of the children range from as young as 2 months up to around 12 years old. The project is open from 5:30am-10pm although the volunteer schedule usually runs from around 8:30am-12:30pm. Volunteers are welcome to stay as long as they wish at the project. Thus, if you wish to continue volunteering in the afternoon, this is more than possible.

The morning schedule sees more children in attendance and more activities and class-based learning. In the afternoons when there are lower numbers of children. Thus the daycare centre tends to adopt a more relaxed approach with more play and recreation time.

The project itself is maintained thanks to the work of the people who take care of the children every day, as well as the donations they receive from people in the community. It is important to know that a big part of the population comes from homes with social risk. Volunteers are encouraged to be as creative and proactive as possible to engage with all the children and plan activities. The children are generally from the poorer areas of the local community. Your physical support doing volunteer work at the project can certainly go a long way.

Due to the education and support at the project, volunteers are requested to have intermediate Spanish on this project. The project staff will generally only tend to speak in Spanish adopting very limited English.

Centro Infantil Pequeños Angelitos – Located in Dulce Nombre de Coronado, to get to this nursery volunteers will need to take a bus from downtown Coronado, it’s a short trip. The project cares for up to 40 children from 7am-7pm Monday to Friday. Children are provided with meals, music & art activities and basic education in grammar. Part of the population comes from homes with social risk, aided by the government. The mornings are when the project premises is busiest and when volunteer support is more appreciated.

The project is available for a mix of ages from caring for newborns up to children aged 11 years. The teachers believe that no two students have exactly the same skill set or learning style. The classrooms are full of activity and learning time to cater to many different children and their learning styles. Volunteer interaction enhances this opportunity with small group activities or one-on-one learning.

Teachers will utilise volunteers by preparing small lessons in a range of areas. These areas include colours, English alphabet, songs and active learning through games and crafts. Examples of crafts may be ‘Letter of the Week’, finger-painting activities and making paper-puppets. Volunteers should use their imagination during the day to day aspects of the volunteer projects. As preparations for this, volunteers should utilise their free time to plan activities in advance.

If you like working with babies there are 5-10 at the project each day. The caregivers are always in need of assistance in areas such as cleaning, changing, feeding, soothing and playing. These little ones need a lot of love and attention to thrive and grow each day. Volunteers helping out in this area will be essential. This is because 1 caregiver managing many infants can be very challenging. Thus, the extra pair of arms means one more person to soothe the little ones.

Volunteers will assist the local staff with activities and also at meal and nap times. Volunteers will also play with the children and get involved with teaching basic English through songs and games. The children will generally only be responsive to instructions in Spanish. However, some of the staff have basic, but limited English to converse in.

YOUR VOLUNTEER ROLE & TYPICAL CHILDCARE DAY

Volunteers will help with daily chores like cleaning and helping to feed the children. Other aspects of being a childcare volunteer in Costa Rica include singing songs, teaching about hygiene and other important skills. Playing games and outdoor activities are also a big part of your volunteer role.

The work schedule is flexible and will be set between you, the centre and our volunteer coordinator in Coronado. Based on your project assignment, you will typically work either 7:30am-12:30pm or 1pm-5pm on a Monday-Friday basis. Please plan for at least 3-5 hours on the project.

If you are up for it, take a 40 minute walk through the heart of Coronado to reach your childcare volunteer placement! Alternatively, you can take a 20 minute bus ride to reach your childcare project. The bus stop is located just outside the volunteer accommodation and Spanish school. Furthermore, the local team will assist you in learning the routes to your volunteer project. As a result, you will be acquainted with how to get to and from your volunteer project.

OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER WORKING WITH CHILDREN IN COSTA RICA

Spanish Requirements – As for all our volunteer in Costa Rica programs, we recommend that you speak basic to intermediate Spanish. The programs only require you to speak a basic level of Spanish. However, we find that the ability to speak a good level of the Spanish language will greatly enhance your overall experience. This is because English is generally not widely spoken. So if you do not speak a reasonable level of Spanish then you will find it difficult to communicate. As a result, this could lead to a more frustrating experience.

All PMGY volunteers in Costa Rica will participate in the learn Spanish in Costa Rica program for the first week of their experience. This provides everyone with 20 lessons per-week of group Spanish lessons and some optional afternoon cultural and social activities. In cases where a participant is the only one at their level, a participant may partake in 15 private lessons per-week instead. Each lesson lasts 50 minutes.

Prior to your arrival, you will receive an email request to take a Spanish Proficiency level form. The form is quick and used by the local team to prepare your classes upon arrival. The aim of this week is to try and improve your level of Spanish before you start volunteering in your second week. Most participants in Costa Rica are purely joining the Language Immersion program rather than volunteering. Therefore, the Spanish language experience is a huge part of the overall culture of the setup in Costa Rica.

PMGY also offer Online Spanish Lessons that you can take before your trip. The lessons provide you with the opportunity to receive one-on-one classes from a trained Spanish teacher. Classes are held via Zoom and can be worked around your schedule back in your home country.

Once you are in-country then you are also able to organise additional Spanish lessons directly with our local team. Volunteer feedback suggests that it can often be tiring to complete Spanish lessons at the same time as your volunteer programs in Costa Rica. Consequently, we generally recommend extending your Language Immersion Program.

Placement Settings – PMGY does not provide volunteer opportunities in orphanages in any of our locations. Research and studies have shown that visiting and volunteering in orphanages has the potential to generate an industry that separates children from their families. In turn, putting children at increased risk of neglect and abuse. Therefore, we do not support these institutions with our volunteer network.

Instead, we focus on offering alternative childcare volunteer opportunities whereby children come to and from the placement setting each day. In other words, our local teams collaborate with childcare projects which do not offer any form of residential care. These are safe, responsible, and vetted projects, where participants continue to provide valued assistance supporting local staff.

Weekends – Your project work in Costa Rica runs from Monday-Friday and weekends are free. You are welcome to relax and hang out at the volunteer accommodation but most participants will use this time to travel and explore the country. As a result, you can check out our Costa Rica Weekend Travel Guide for top tips on how to spend your weekend.

As a volunteer teaching English in Costa Rica, you will provide additional support to local teachers across the schools in Coronado. Not only this, PMGY’s Costa Rica volunteer programs provide a great foundation to improve your Spanish. Combine your Spanish learning and enthusiasm for teaching to make the most out of your teach English in Costa Rica experience!

BACKGROUND TO THE TEACHING PROGRAM

The beautiful city of Coronado is located in the suburbs of San Jose. Communities are expanding in Coronado and classrooms are becoming increasingly overstretched. Teachers are overseeing classrooms of as many as 30 students, calling out for much-needed assistance.

For over a century, education has been free for all Costa Rica citizens. The literacy rate of Costa Rica is 95%. Moreover, most students will graduate from secondary school with some form of specialised training. This specialisation will help students stand out when it comes to finding a job in Costa Rica in their free time.

The belief behind free education is the empowering future that comes as a result. The government believes that providing a solid education will then provide the country with a more skilled workforce. People who can advance the times and opportunities for Costa Rica.

The mission of the Costa Rican school system is, “To create a well-educated populace that will one day improve their national (and even global) lot.” Costa Rica is a community-based society and not based on the individual success of students.

In 1869 Costa Rica was the first country in Central America to make education free for all citizens. Primary education is mandatory for children 6 to 13 years old followed by a voluntary secondary education lasting five years. The final two years of secondary education are specialised. This includes subjects such as computer science, media & technology, clinical assistance and childcare training.

The public and private school systems are similar in the respect that the curriculum is enforced and determined by the Ministry of Education. The major difference between the two is that extra classes are offered to prepare students for study abroad. The cost of private education is very high and only those from high-income families are able to receive such programs.

Social classes are a major factor in the social system of Costa Rica. Costa Ricans feel that their high education sets them apart from those of less fortune. Due to this, there has been a great focus on the expansion of primary and secondary education.

Families with a higher cost of living born into the lower classes will almost always remain in this class. However, in certain cases due to free education and family sacrifice to save money, students can have their prospects enhanced. This may be through being placed into private education or English classes that progress them into further levels of education. This is where free assistance within the public school system can really provide a fighting chance for those of lower classes.

PMGY Costa Rica is happy to provide assistance and lessons for the teachers of Coronado. Many teachers have studied with foreign educators but do so at a University level. Consequently, their English was developed at an older level. To ensure our volunteers are equipped to teach English in Costa Rica, the teaching program will include 1 week of Spanish language classes to start your project! This is to ensure you are able to apply yourself to the children and teachers!

Volunteer opportunities provided by PMGY offer a platform to make a positive impact when you teach English in Costa Rica. When working at our volunteer teaching English abroad projects in Costa Rica, it is important to maintain energy, enthusiasm and creativity. Many of these students will benefit from having someone who is fluent in the English language teaching them in Costa Rica. As a volunteer teaching English in Costa Rica, you will need to donate your time and skills effectively. This is to ensure you can maximise your impact on the local people. If you need motivation for volunteer gap year options, then our projects in Costa Rica provide some fantastic opportunities.

TEACHING VOLUNTEER PLACEMENT EXAMPLES

Patio De Agua – Located in San Rafael de Coronado, Patio de Agua School is 3 kilometres east of the Catholic Church. The school has a population of 70 students, from preschool to sixth grade. Each class has a maximum of 13 students ranging from 8 to 13 years old.

The school is located in an easily accessible area. It is surrounded by nature and beautiful landscapes, near the centre of Coronado. in an area that is characterized by being rural and very quiet. The children who attend this school live in the nearby surroundings. Their parents work in the dairy farms and ornamental plant farms that are in the surroundings.

As a volunteer in Costa Rica, you will largely work as a teacher’s assistant at the school supporting the day to day lessons. Volunteers will help with teaching regular subjects such as Mathematics, Science, Spanish and Social Studies. Volunteers can also collaborate with students who need individual attention to work on a more one to one basis.

Cascajal School – Located in the mountains of Coronado, Cascajal School offers a more rural placement opportunity. Nevertheless, the school is still easily accessible by bus from the accommodation. It is surrounded by nature and offers beautiful mountain views whilst still being close enough to the city.

The school hosts 100 students from preschool to sixth grade with a maximum of 20 students in each class. The school also provides education for groups of children with special needs should volunteers wish to support in this area. The children who attend this school live in the nearby surroundings.

This project environment can be a more challenging environment than others, but equally far more rewarding and involved than other projects. Volunteer tasks will include coordinating activities with the teachers, running language classes and supporting with administration.

YOUR VOLUNTEER ROLE & TYPICAL TEACHING DAY

As English teachers in Costa Rica, you will work predominantly as a teaching assistant. Your volunteer work in Costa Rica will consist of preparing classes, working alongside the teacher during the class schedule and tutoring the children. In addition, you may be asked to help with various activities that may consist of planting, painting and decorating the school grounds. Whether it be in a primary or secondary school, the additional support provided at the project will be appreciated. The teaching program generally lasts from 7:30am-1:30pm on a Monday-Friday basis.

The teaching English volunteer placements are usually located a 20 minute bus ride from the volunteer accommodation. The bus stop is located just outside the volunteer accommodation and Spanish school. Furthermore, the local team will assist you in learning the routes to your volunteer project. As a result, you will be acquainted with how to get to and from your volunteer project.

OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER TEACHING CHILDREN IN COSTA RICA

Experience – For the English Teaching program, teaching experience is not essential as the mere presence of a native English speaker is invaluable. As long as you are creative, determined and resourceful you can have a constructive impact on the development of the children’s education.

TEFL Course – We encourage volunteers to prepare as much as possible for their teaching program overseas. You can make the most out of your time by completing our convenient, inexpensive and international accredited 60 hour Online TEFL Course. The cost of this course is only 150 USD.

Spanish Requirements – As for all our volunteer in Costa Rica programs, we recommend that you speak basic to intermediate Spanish. The programs only require you to speak a basic level of Spanish. However, we find that the ability to speak a good level of Spanish language will greatly enhance your overall experience. This is because English is generally not widely spoken. So if you do not speak a reasonable level of Spanish then you will find it difficult to communicate. As a result, this could lead to a more frustrating experience.

All PMGY volunteers in Costa Rica will participate in the learn Spanish in Costa Rica program for the first week of their experience. This provides everyone with 20 lessons per-week of group Spanish lessons and some optional afternoon cultural and social activities. In cases where a participant is the only one at their level, a participant may partake in 15 private lessons per-week instead. Each lesson lasts 50 minutes.

Prior to your arrival, you will receive an email request to take a Spanish Proficiency level form. The form is quick and used by the local team to prepare your classes upon arrival. The aim of this week is to try and improve your level of Spanish before you start volunteering in your second week. Most participants in Costa Rica are purely joining the Language Immersion program rather than volunteering. Therefore, the Spanish language experience is a huge part of the overall culture of the setup in Costa Rica.

PMGY also offer Online Spanish Lessons that you can take before your trip. The lessons provide you with the opportunity to receive one-on-one classes from a trained Spanish teacher. Classes are held via Zoom and can be worked around your schedule back in your home country.

Once you are in-country then you are also able to organise additional Spanish lessons directly with our local team. Volunteer feedback suggests that it can often be tiring to complete Spanish lessons at the same time as your volunteer programs in Costa Rica. Consequently, we generally recommend extending your Language Immersion Program.

Weekends – Your project work in Costa Rica runs from Monday-Friday and weekends are free. You are welcome to relax and hang out at the volunteer accommodation but most participants will use this time to travel and explore the country. As a result, you can check out our Costa Rica Weekend Travel Guide for top tips on how to spend your weekend.

As a bird rescue volunteer in Ecuador, you will get a hands-on experience with a variety of bird life from this amazing country. This is a fascinating and inspiring local initiative situated just outside of Quito that helps to promote education, respect, and love for all bird life. As a volunteer in Ecuador, you will help with the vital activities involved in the day-to-day running of this project all while learning about the challenges facing bird life within Ecuador.

BACKGROUND TO THE BIRD RESCUE PROGRAM

As in many South American countries, Ecuador is home to an abundance of wildlife with its tropical climate, diverse landscape, and abundance of rainforests. Traditionally there has been an abundance of birdlife flourishing in this ecosphere. However, due to several problems such as deforestation, poaching, and domestic care, birds now face a challenge to peacefully coexist with mankind. According to BirdLife International’s update for 2012 of the IUCN red list of threatened species, close to 100 species of birds across the Amazon region are now at a greatly increased threat of extinction.

Parrots are among the most endangered and rapidly declining bird groups, with 28% of their species classified as threatened. Traditionally many families in South American countries have kept parrots and other wild birds as domestic pets and as a result, are continually removed from their natural habitat. Amazon parrots and macaws are preferred due to their attractiveness and ability to mimic the human voice. While it is now illegal to keep a wild bird as a pet, demand is still high in rural areas where over half of coastal communities keep pet parrots. The Ecuadorian Government is playing its part in the process, and it confiscated an average of 392 wild birds annually from 2003-2019. However, with a lack of care facilities, the government often relies on local initiatives to provide additional assistance with the long-term rehabilitation and care of these animals.

The lack of environmental education in Ecuadorian schools is also a barrier to reducing parrot ownership and capture. The main purpose of any environmental education strategy is to change people’s knowledge and attitudes, and ultimately behaviours. Alone, or in combination with other conservation interventions, environmental education projects can result in a decrease in the persecution of parrots and consequently an increase in population size.

Wild birds also face a challenge trying to live within an increasingly growing urban infrastructure in Quito. As the population rapidly grows this means their environment is being displaced at an alarming rate. Living so close to a human population often results in injury and ultimately a declining number of birdlife.

BIRD RESCUE VOLUNTEER PLACEMENT EXAMPLE

Jardin Alado – PMGY has teamed up with “The Garden of Birds” which is an inspiring project established by Paul Tufiño in 2013. This project helps to combat the environmental and social challenges facing birdlife across Quito and beyond. This is a non-governmental project that relies on external donations to help promote their goals of environmental education and the rehabilitation of birds of prey in Ecuador.

The project helps provide a safe sanctuary for birds who have often been kept as pets, mistreated, or injured in the wild. The ultimate aim is to release the birds back into the wildlife and to date, they have been successful by releasing 371 in total. Some birds have become too domesticated or have some physical or psychological damage that prevents them from ever being safely released. Therefore, these birds are well looked after at the project. The unique aspect of this project is it promotes a “cage-free” experience for birds to allow for a semi-free lifestyle.

The rescued birds are put under the care of the local staff at the bird sanctuary. As a volunteer in Ecuador, you will play a vital role in supporting the local staff. In the same vein, as an animal volunteer, you will work alongside the staff to complete core tasks at the project. Such tasks for Ecuador bird rescue volunteering include:

• Taking care of the birds
• Assisting with cleaning and general maintenance
• Support with feeding the animals
• Helping with any medical treatments required
• Assisting in any educational programs
• Help build new houses on-site

The project welcomes local visitors to help provide a revenue stream and promote education into the overall conservation and care of these species. Therefore, there is a big opportunity to connect with local guests and promote the overall aims and objectives of the bird project. Volunteer support and contributions are a big help to the project that otherwise can receive limited help. By choosing to work closely with this bird project in Ecuador, your support as a bird rescue volunteer will be much appreciated by those connected at the centre.

On a broader level, the sanctuary has a range of programs that you as an Ecuador bird rescue volunteer can support with. For example, educational campaigns at local schools and recovery projects for sick and mistreated birds. The centre is located approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes from downtown Quito and is one hectare in size. Other animals that live and are cared for on-site include butterflies, farm animals, llamas, and wild cats.

Our Ecuador bird rescue volunteering project allows volunteers and interns to experience their love of bird life during their time in Ecuador. Working at the centre of the project as part of your international volunteering, your daily tasks will make a positive contribution. Moreover, the care and wellbeing these rescued birds receive will greatly improve.

YOUR VOLUNTEER ROLE & TYPICAL WORK DAY

When you complete volunteer work in Ecuador at the bird rescue centre, you will be helping with the daily chores. As an Ecuador bird rescue volunteer, you will help with cleaning and feeding. Other activities include enrichment activities, medical assistance, and general support for the local project staff. The volunteering hours are typically from 8am-4pm on a Monday-Friday basis.

To reach the bird rescue project, you will need to catch the public bus, and this takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes. The bus stop is located nearby to the volunteer accommodation. Furthermore, the local team will assist you in learning the routes to your volunteer project. As a result, you will be acquainted with how to get to and from your volunteer project. Alternatively, volunteers may opt to take an Uber to get to the project. Whilst more convenient, volunteers should expect to pay considerably more to get to and from the project if opting for this form of transport.

OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER VOLUNTEERING WITH BIRDS IN ECUADOR

Spanish Requirements – As for all our volunteer in Ecuador programs, we recommend that you speak basic to intermediate Spanish. The programs only require you to speak a basic level of Spanish. However, we find that the ability to speak a good level of the Spanish language will greatly enhance your overall experience. This is because English is generally not widely spoken. So if you do not speak a reasonable level of Spanish then you will find it difficult to communicate. As a result, this could lead to a more frustrating experience.

PMGY also offer Online Spanish Lessons that you can take before your trip. The lessons provide you with the opportunity to receive one-on-one classes from a trained Spanish teacher. Classes are held via Zoom and can be worked around your schedule back in your home country.

We also offer a learn Spanish in Ecuador program which you can take part in prior to your volunteer placement. This provides you with 20 hours-per-week of group Spanish lessons. Both of these options can be added during our online application process. They are highly recommended if you want to make the most of your volunteer placement.

Once you are in-country then you are also able to organise additional Spanish lessons directly with our local team. Volunteer feedback suggests that it can often be tiring to complete Spanish lessons at the same time as your volunteer programs in Ecuador. Consequently, we generally recommend extending your Language Immersion Program.

Project Requirements – Ecuador is definitely a destination that needs your time. The projects that you are joining will be schools, nurseries and hospitals. They require your project commitment and as a result, all participants are expected at the project Monday-Friday. Some projects are walking distance and other projects will require public transportation.

There is an option to miss a maximum of 3 days and go to the Amazon or the Galapagos Islands. However, this will need to be arranged in advance. If volunteers are ill, this will require notification in the morning. Furthermore, the request from the project is that they are provided with a doctors note. The team will explain further the expectation of the coordinators and projects during orientation.

Weekends – Your project work in Ecuador runs from Monday-Friday and weekends are free. You are welcome to relax and hang out at the volunteer accommodation but most participants will use this time to travel and explore the country. As a result, you can check out our Ecuador Weekend Travel Guide for top tips on how to spend your weekend.

As a childcare volunteer in Ecuador, you will provide additional support to childcare projects within the city of Quito. Not only this, PMGY’s Ecuador volunteer programs provide a great foundation to improve your Spanish. Provide a helping hand for the children and local staff. Plan activities and games, help with meal times and be sure to improve your Spanish as you volunteer with children in Ecuador.

BACKGROUND TO THE CHILDCARE PROGRAM

In Ecuador, children attend kindergartens typically from 1-4 years old. The facilities often lack basic resources and are usually overcrowded. There is a limited number of local staff supervising high numbers of children. The children who attend the project each day are typically from more disadvantaged communities in Quito.

Subsequently, each child may not get the best start in their early childhood. The presence of a volunteer at a kindergarten can provide much needed support and engagement for children. In turn, this builds their confidence and early years development. Working alongside local staff will help give children the skills they need to thrive during their early years.

Some children also face extra challenges and have additional needs in Ecuador. Children with disabilities face many barriers within and outside the Ecuadorian education system. Lack of awareness and limited access to resources have left many disabled children in Ecuador without the care many desperately need. For children with disabilities, participants can play an essential role in working at a one to one level and supporting with occupational therapy activities. Supporting these projects can be challenging, but equally varied and rewarding.

Volunteer opportunities in Ecuador provided by PMGY will provide you with a platform to make a positive impact. When working at our childcare volunteer abroad projects in Ecuador, it is important to maintain energy, enthusiasm and creativity. For the reason that many of these children will be seeking the care and attention that you as a childcare volunteer in Ecuador can bring. To volunteer with children in Ecuador, you will need to donate your time and skills effectively. This is to ensure you can maximise your impact on the local people. If you need motivation for gap year volunteering, then our projects in Ecuador provide some fantastic options.

CHILDCARE VOLUNTEER PLACEMENT EXAMPLES

La Bota Kindergarten – The centre hosts more than 40 children aged from 1-4 years old. At La Bota Kindergarten, there are 3 groups of children and their daily activities depend on their age. Volunteers at the daycare centre can help by creating recreational activities for the children and organising games. Additionally, participants can teach about hygiene, read stories, play music and sing songs.

As you participate in the project, you will make fast bonds with the children. Therefore, you must commit to the project for your whole time in Ecuador and plan for each day accordingly. The project runs across the day, but volunteers will usually join in the morning. Usually, this is for 4 hours before the children take their afternoon nap. There are usually 1-2 local staff members in each classroom for volunteer support. Participants can also help the local staff with snacks and breakfast time.

Working with children is one of the most fulfilling jobs. The volunteers will have the chance to interact with the kids in a variety of ways. Taking the initiative and applying creativity is an important skill to have in this kind of work. As you complete volunteer work in Ecuador at this project, you will play a key role in supporting the more limited local support team. Please keep in mind that the centre’s resources are limited. It is important that you know you may have to face adverse situations. Please be respectful and responsible in your work, keep in mind you are a role model for these children! This volunteer project aims to instil in children important values such as care, respect and love for learning.

Horse Therapy Project – This inspiring initiative was created in 1993 and provides an alternative form of therapy for children with disabilities. This is a relatively new but increasingly popular rehabilitation method for treating both mentally and physically disabled people. This project has the overall aim of improving coordination, rhythm, orientation and balance of the children who attend.

The physical presence of horses has a positive effect on the children’s mindset. The production of alpha waves is stimulated by the children riding the horses and this allows them to relax at the same time. It also provides a distraction for children who can often be in pain or suffering some form of depression.

Volunteers play a vital role in the day-to-day running of this project. They help the local staff with the general maintenance of the horses including feeding, walking, and ensuring they are suitably saddled and bridled. Volunteers also assist with the therapy sessions with the children and working with their parents at the project.

YOUR VOLUNTEER ROLE & TYPICAL CHILDCARE DAY

As a volunteer in Ecuador, your role involves supporting local staff with daily chores. Examples include providing volunteer support at mealtimes and with cleaning tasks. This extends to more creative support in singing songs, teaching English and improving hygiene skills. Playing with children in a recreational setting outdoors is also a big part of the role. This is because of the limited time the local caregivers have to do this.

The work schedule is flexible and will be set between you, the centre and our volunteer coordinator in Quito. Thus volunteers will have the chance to make the most of their time. You will be volunteering at the project Monday-Friday. Please plan for at least 3-5 hours on the project.

You can take the public bus to reach your childcare project. The bus stop is located nearby to the volunteer accommodation. Furthermore, the local team will assist you in learning the routes to your volunteer project. As a result, you will be acquainted with how to get to and from your volunteer project. Alternatively, volunteers may opt to take an Uber to get to the project. Whilst more convenient, volunteers should expect to pay considerably more to get to and from the project if opting for this form of transport.

OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER WORKING WITH CHILDREN IN ECUADOR

Spanish Requirements – As for all our volunteer in Ecuador programs, we recommend that you speak basic to intermediate Spanish. The programs only require you to speak a basic level of Spanish. However, we find that the ability to speak a good level of the Spanish language will greatly enhance your overall experience. This is because English is generally not widely spoken. So if you do not speak a reasonable level of Spanish then you will find it difficult to communicate. As a result, this could lead to a more frustrating experience.

PMGY also offer Online Spanish Lessons that you can take before your trip. The lessons provide you with the opportunity to receive one-on-one classes from a trained Spanish teacher. Classes are held via Zoom and can be worked around your schedule back in your home country.

We also offer a learn Spanish in Ecuador program which you can take part in prior to your volunteer placement. This provides you with 20 hours-per-week of group Spanish lessons. Both of these options can be added during our online application process. They are highly recommended if you want to make the most of your volunteer placement.

Once you are in-country then you are also able to organise additional Spanish lessons directly with our local team. Volunteer feedback suggests that it can often be tiring to complete Spanish lessons at the same time as your volunteer programs in Ecuador. Consequently, we generally recommend extending your Language Immersion Program.

Project Requirements – Ecuador is definitely a destination that needs your time. The projects that you are joining will be schools, nurseries and hospitals. They require your project commitment and as a result, all participants are expected at the project Monday-Friday. Some projects are walking distance and other projects will require public transportation.

There is an option to miss a maximum of 3 days and go to the Amazon or the Galapagos Islands. However, this will need to be arranged in advance. If volunteers are ill, this will require notification in the morning. Furthermore, the request from the project is that they are provided with a doctors note. The team will explain further the expectation of the coordinators and projects during orientation.

Placement Settings – PMGY does not provide volunteer opportunities in orphanages in any of our locations. Research and studies have shown that visiting and volunteering in orphanages has the potential to generate an industry that separates children from their families. In turn, putting children at increased risk of neglect and abuse. Therefore, we do not support these institutions with our volunteer network.

Instead, we focus on offering alternative childcare volunteer opportunities whereby children come to and from the placement setting each day. In other words, our local teams collaborate with childcare projects which do not offer any form of residential care. These are safe, responsible, and vetted projects, where participants continue to provide valued assistance supporting local staff.

Weekends – Your project work in Ecuador runs from Monday-Friday and weekends are free. You are welcome to relax and hang out at the volunteer accommodation but most participants will use this time to travel and explore the country. As a result, you can check out our Ecuador Weekend Travel Guide for top tips on how to spend your weekend.

As a volunteer teaching English in Ecuador, you will provide additional support to local teachers across the schools in Quito. Not only this, PMGY’s Ecuador volunteer programs provide a great foundation to improve your Spanish. Incorporate English language lessons with historic influences of indigenous culture as you teach English in Ecuador.

BACKGROUND TO THE TEACHING PROGRAM

Based on the Global View, Ecuador has a very good school system. The education system is recognised as one of the most developed in South America. Ecuador requires all school-aged children to attend classes until they achieve a basic level of education.

This is not just focussed on mainstream education. The government and local organisations have improved the quality of education for special needs students across the nation. There are now programs from pre-primary to professional studies for over 30,000 students with special needs.

Within mainstream education, the public school system has a high level of enrolled children reflecting that government requirements are met. Unfortunately, the level of participation in high school ages (15+) has decreased over the years, particularly in rural communities.

Education is provided by the government for primary and secondary public students. However, families are facing significant additional costs for extra classes and transportation. Due to this, many are not able to continue into higher education. As a result, they cannot speak English properly. Finding work in more prosperous areas like the tourism industry becomes ever more challenging.

The private school system tends to have extended student involvement. Consequently, this then provides the necessary requirements for higher education levels such as university or training courses. Many of these institutions are run by churches requiring courses in religion along with maths, science, Spanish and other languages. There is an increasing number of private and international schools that offer courses in English, but the spaces are limited.

Volunteer opportunities provided by PMGY offer a platform to make a positive impact when you teach English in Ecuador. When working at our volunteer teaching English abroad projects in Ecuador, it is important to maintain energy, enthusiasm and creativity. Many of these students will benefit from having someone who is fluent in the English language teaching them in Ecuador. As a volunteer teaching English in Ecuador, you will need to donate your time and skills effectively. This is to ensure you can maximise your impact on the local people. If you need motivation for gap year volunteering programs, then our projects in Ecuador provide some fantastic opportunities.

TEACHING VOLUNTEER PLACEMENT EXAMPLES

The Federico Gauss Secondary School – A typical classroom setting, Federico Gauss Secondary School displays many cultural influences of indigenous beliefs. More specifically, it is a private institution school that applies indigenous beliefs alongside a creative curriculum. The project teaches young adults with slight behavioural issues or misconduct in the public or private school setting.

The classrooms are in group settings of 8-24 students based on their ability (ages 12-18). Courses can include general maths, science and English, while arts are very important including computer science, media and history. The teaching program lasts from 8am-12pm. Yet, there are many opportunities to join in the afternoon for tutoring as the school day finishes typically at 2pm.

The project’s top priority is to improve the level of English of future generations of Quito. Many of the people in the schools in Ecuador take English from primary school. However, this is constructed with a very basic curriculum including minimal vocabulary and limited verbal skills. Most primary schools are understaffed leaving children without a proper understanding of the material to move forward in their education.

As a volunteer in Ecuador, you will work with the teachers during the class schedule. This incorporates helping to prepare classes, assisting with marking, tutoring students and interacting during class breaks. There is a sports yard at the school where volunteers can help with physical education activities.

Those with experience in media or computer science may have opportunities to educate and assist the students in learning in this area. More specifically, this includes supporting with film assignments by instructing interviews, broadcasting or equipment used while recording. If volunteers want to assist with software then the school is always in need of such support! Examples of this include helping with Microsoft Office and video design or simple lessons about the use of a computer. The students love to expand their knowledge of the arts in any area when you are teaching in Ecuador.

This is the most common and structured placement where PMGY volunteers teach English in Ecuador. This is because volunteer feedback suggests that participants feel most useful and productive when working at this teaching project.

Colegio Pitagoras – Founded in 1991, the Pitagoras educational unit is a private institution focused on initial, basic and high school education. The school aims to support the children and youth of the Itchimbia community. It is an educational space of joy, love and life. Today, the institution houses more than 200 students from different social levels. Each student receives access to a comprehensive training plan which promotes constructive and creative thinking.

Participants support local teachers during the classes. The presence of an international volunteer contributes to the strengthening of vocabulary, pronunciation and verbal ability among students. Volunteers will play a key role in assisting students with listening, reading, speaking and writing activities. In turn, this improves the development of key language skills for students. Participants will support the local teacher in evaluating the pronunciation and communication skills of students. Individuals on this project will get to enjoy a unique cultural exchange within the educational community of this institution.

YOUR VOLUNTEER ROLE & TYPICAL TEACHING DAY

Volunteer work in Ecuador involves supporting the local teachers during the class schedule. This involves helping to prepare classes, tutoring students and interacting with them during class breaks. We expect volunteers to spend an hour or two each day preparing for lessons if requested by the teacher.

For volunteers teaching English in Ecuador, the projects are typically quite well resourced. If volunteers feel basic supplies are not easily available they are encouraged to speak to our local team. The team will then do their best to support where possible. If volunteers are wishing for additional resources, there are some great shops in town. The teaching program typically lasts from 8am-12pm on a Monday-Friday basis. However, there may also be opportunities to join in the afternoon for tutoring.

You can take the public bus to reach your English teaching project. The bus stop is located nearby to the volunteer accommodation. Furthermore, the local team will assist you in learning the routes to your volunteer project. As a result, you will be acquainted with how to get to and from your volunteer project. Alternatively, volunteers may opt to take an Uber to get to the project. Whilst more convenient, volunteers should expect to pay considerably more to get to and from the project if opting for this form of transport.

OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER TEACHING CHILDREN IN ECUADOR

Experience – For the English Teaching program, teaching experience is not essential as the mere presence of a native English speaker is invaluable. As long as you are creative, determined and resourceful you can have a constructive impact on the development of the children’s education.

TEFL Course – We encourage volunteers to prepare as much as possible for their teaching program overseas. You can make the most out of your time by completing our convenient, inexpensive and international accredited 60 hour Online TEFL Course. The cost of this course is only 150 USD.

Spanish Requirements – As for all our volunteer in Ecuador programs, we recommend that you speak basic to intermediate Spanish. The programs only require you to speak a basic level of Spanish. However, we find that the ability to speak a good level of the Spanish language will greatly enhance your overall experience. This is because English is generally not widely spoken. So if you do not speak a reasonable level of Spanish then you will find it difficult to communicate. As a result, this could lead to a more frustrating experience.

PMGY also offer Online Spanish Lessons that you can take before your trip. The lessons provide you with the opportunity to receive one-on-one classes from a trained Spanish teacher. Classes are held via Zoom and can be worked around your schedule back in your home country.

We also offer a learn Spanish in Ecuador program which you can take part in prior to your volunteer placement. This provides you with 20 hours-per-week of group Spanish lessons. Both of these options can be added during our online application process. They are highly recommended if you want to make the most of your volunteer placement.

Once you are in-country then you are also able to organise additional Spanish lessons directly with our local team. Volunteer feedback suggests that it can often be tiring to complete Spanish lessons at the same time as your volunteer programs in Ecuador. Consequently, we generally recommend extending your Language Immersion Program.

Project Requirements – Ecuador is definitely a destination that needs your time. The projects that you are joining will be schools, nurseries and hospitals. They require your project commitment and as a result, all participants are expected at the project Monday-Friday. Some projects are walking distance and other projects will require public transportation.

There is an option to miss a maximum of 3 days and go to the Amazon or the Galapagos Islands. However, this will need to be arranged in advance. If volunteers are ill, this will require notification in the morning. Furthermore, the request from the project is that they are provided with a doctors note. The team will explain further the expectation of the coordinators and projects during orientation.

Weekends – Your project work in Ecuador runs from Monday-Friday and weekends are free. You are welcome to relax and hang out at the volunteer accommodation but most participants will use this time to travel and explore the country. As a result, you can check out our Ecuador Weekend Travel Guide for top tips on how to spend your weekend.

As an Ecuador medical volunteer, you will gain first-hand insight and exposure to the Ecuadorian healthcare system. Not only this, PMGY’s Ecuador volunteer programs provide a great foundation to improve your Spanish. Delve deeper into the traditional healing beliefs of the local people. Focus your time and energy on specific departments at the hospital as a medical volunteer.

BACKGROUND TO THE MEDICAL PROGRAM

In the late 1990s, Ecuador suffered from an extremely weak government with one of the worst financial systems in South America. The healthcare provided was that of the Middle Ages. For the reason that healthcare costs could never be met by the average monthly salary. Furthermore, unemployment was at over 10% of the population and 20% of people were living in poverty. The system was failing and people were faced with little to no solution.

In 2000 Rafael Correa took office. During his early years, although hit with crisis after crisis, he established one of the strongest healthcare systems on the continent. At the beginning of his time, there were few hospitals and medical care providers in the city. So much so, that the patients were receiving a level of care similar to the standard of a rural clinic.

Due to these measures, Correa invested over 2,000 million USD into the healthcare budget. As a result, 18 new hospitals in major cities were commissioned. Furthermore, 250 healthcare centres and health clinics were built in rural villages nationwide.

Since these changes, locals describe all care to be equal across the country. Whether they visit a rural village clinic or a major hospital in the city of Quito, consistency in care was achieved. The care will be of nearly the same quality with only a difference in the availability of specialists in the small facilities.

Changes to the healthcare system are also reflected in the levels of coverage. The system is broken down into four parts; private, public, social care and no coverage. Those with private care are the working class; this care is provided under a purchased insurance plan. In addition to the private system, there is the Social Care system. Such a system is similar to the Social Security system of the United States.

This system applies to citizens who have applied portions of their income to the government care plan. Consequently, they are provided with coverage allowance for healthcare. The public system is free to everyone who has been denied care. In most cases, this is for those with a terminal illness, over the age of 60, under the age of 10 and impoverished.

Volunteer opportunities in Ecuador provided by PMGY will provide you with a platform. Such a platform allows for valuable exposure to medicine and healthcare projects within a new culture. For the reason that many of the facilities, procedures and operations you observe will be completely new to you.

More specifically, they will be completely different from how things are done in your home country. As an Ecuador medical volunteer, you will need to schedule your time and skills effectively to make the most out of your project time. This is to ensure you can maximise your exposure and learning opportunities at the project.

Should medical volunteers in Ecuador wish to consider alternative or additional projects, our medical volunteer projects in India is recognised as our leading medical volunteer opportunity. For the reason that volunteers receive high exposure and involvement across a range of placement and project settings.

MEDICAL VOLUNTEER PLACEMENT EXAMPLE

Hospital Enrique Garces – PMGY medical volunteers in Ecuador apply their time in a public hospital in Quito. The project is at Hospital Enrique Garces. This is one of the few care centres offering free healthcare for people in and around the capital. This is one of the biggest public hospitals in Quito. The hospital provides volunteers with the opportunity to join in 8 different wards. Such wards include:

Internal Medicine (specialty departments), Paediatrics, Gynaecology, Occupational Therapy, Trauma, Out-Patient, Surgery Consult Department

The hospital is very happy to have university students and medical volunteers, but they take the position quite seriously. Volunteers on this project are not required to have any medical education. However, volunteers are advised to have some form of volunteer work experience. Examples of this can include in a community care setting or clinical volunteering hours.

The project does accept school leavers with no experience looking to enter the medical field. However, such participants should be prepared with questions and learning objectives for the doctors and nurses. Furthermore, such volunteers should adopt a positive attitude to gain what they can from the program.

The minimum time in any department will be 2 weeks. The ward will be assigned based on your level of Spanish. The recommended time for this medical project is 4+ weeks to properly apply yourself in the listed departments. When assigned to a department, on the first day you will meet and be introduced to the head of that department.

Medical students are advised to note that all of the staff at the hospital typically only speak in Spanish. Thus, they have little to no English. So volunteers will need to have a good level of Spanish to communicate efficiently with the local staff. Otherwise, volunteers will incur a high language barrier and thus a frustrating learning experience.

Volunteers will join the program Monday-Friday. The project will begin at 7:30am each day to ensure you get a busy morning. The average time on the project will be 5 hours finishing in the early afternoon or time off requested completion. An example of a day on the paediatric ward could be as follows:

• 7:30am-8:30am – Report to the paediatric ward. Observe inpatient rounds with a nurse for medication, consultation and viewing.

• 9am-9:30am – Observe injections for children in need of updated vaccine charting.

• 9:30am-10:30am – Assist care provider by engaging children in games or play while they provide necessary treatment for external wounds, infections or therapy due to disabilities.

• 10:30am-11am – Break time.

• 11am-12pm – Shadow doctor during rounds providing consultation and admission to the hospital.

• 12pm-12:30pm – Assist care providers with counsel and care planning with family for patient discharge plan.

While volunteering in Ecuador you may encounter a variety of illnesses. Examples include acute respiratory infection, diarrhetic diseases, tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, depression, malnutrition, physical abuse and altitude sickness. As this is a facility for those with low income or unemployment the severity of illness will vary. This hospital provides care to those within the city and also the surrounding rural developments.

As a medical volunteer, you may encounter indigenous people who rely on holistic methods of care. The belief of the Incan people is to be one with Mother Earth and live a balanced life. The use of Western medications or treatments doesn’t meet that of their traditional belief system.

At times you may encounter people who have received many holistic treatments. These are people traditionally from a more rural or indigenous area. They are brought to the hospital in a severe state and in desperate need of antibiotics and other medications. The hospital system, in general, is centred around prescriptions of Western medications for treatments.

YOUR VOLUNTEER ROLE & TYPICAL WORK DAY

International volunteers will spend most of their time observing on the wards assisted by nurses and doctors. In some cases, they will be asked to assist in engaging small children with activities while they receive treatment. There is a chance if volunteers speak Spanish to get involved with counselling. This can extend to helping local doctors with care plans for families with patients in the hospital.

In general, your medical volunteer work in Ecuador will be Monday–Friday. The project will begin at 7:30am each day. This is to ensure you get a busy morning and can help the medical staff out appropriately. The average time on the volunteer programs abroad will be 3-5 hours finishing in the early afternoon.

You will be required to take a 45 minute bus ride to reach the medical project. The bus stop is located nearby to the volunteer accommodation. Furthermore, the local team will assist you in learning the routes to your volunteer project. As a result, you will be acquainted with how to get to and from your volunteer project. Alternatively, volunteers may opt to take an Uber to get to the project. Whilst more convenient, volunteers should expect to pay considerably more to get to and from the project if opting for this form of transport.

OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER AS A MEDICAL VOLUNTEER IN ECUADOR

Spanish Requirements – For the medical program in Ecuador, we recommend that you speak intermediate Spanish. We find that the ability to speak a good level of the Spanish language will greatly enhance your overall experience. This is because English is generally not widely spoken. So if you do not speak a reasonable level of Spanish then you will find it difficult to communicate. As a result, this could lead to a more frustrating experience.

PMGY also offer Online Spanish Lessons that you can take before your trip. The lessons provide you with the opportunity to receive one-on-one classes from a trained Spanish teacher. Classes are held via Zoom and can be worked around your schedule back in your home country.

We also offer a learn Spanish in Ecuador program which you can take part in prior to your volunteer placement. This provides you with 20 hours-per-week of group Spanish lessons. Both of these options can be added during our online application process. They are highly recommended if you want to make the most of your volunteer placement.

Once you are in-country then you are also able to organise additional Spanish lessons directly with our local team. Volunteer feedback suggests that it can often be tiring to complete Spanish lessons at the same time as your volunteer programs in Ecuador. Consequently, we generally recommend extending your Language Immersion Program.

University Students Only – Volunteers are advised to note that the hospital/clinics will not permit applicants who are not studying medicine, healthcare sciences or nursing at university. Unfortunately, there are no exceptions to this rule.

Project Requirements – Volunteers are advised to bring with them 2 or 3 ID photos for their hospital ID. You will receive the ID on your first day. This will allow more openings for participants in terms of greater department availability and entry openings. Volunteers, in general, will need to register sign in and sign out at the hospital department each day they attend.

Please be aware that care provisions may not meet the autonomy or standards of your home country. In South America, volunteers may encounter situations where family members have been victims of domestic violence. This can extend to other forms of physical assault. We ask that those on this program keep an open mind. More specifically, be prepared for different experiences than what you may encounter within medical studies at home.

Hands-On Involvement – Your level of involvement at the medical volunteer projects is dictated by a range of factors. First of all your medical experience, but also the duration of program and willingness to get involved. The medical staff are accountable for you whilst you’re under their supervision. Ultimately, it is completely up to them if you are permitted and want to get involved in hands-on procedures.

Previous PMGY Ecuador medical volunteer participants have been given the chance to administer IV injections, dress wounds etc. However, please note we can never guarantee or promote hands-on involvement regardless of medical experience or background.

Generally speaking those with little or no medical experience assume a largely observational role. If you are studying a medically related degree, then you should have more opportunity to undertake some more basic hands-on involvement. However, to reiterate we can never guarantee or endorse hands-on experience should you choose to get hands-on. Such a decision ultimately lies with the medical staff.

Trained Professionals – Please note this program is not suitable for trained professionals who are looking to practise overseas. This opportunity is only suitable for school leavers & medical students looking to go into the medical or nursing field and wish to learn about a healthcare system overseas.

Weekends – Your project work in Ecuador runs from Monday-Friday and weekends are free. You are welcome to relax and hang out at the volunteer accommodation but most participants will use this time to travel and explore the country. As a result, you can check out our Ecuador Weekend Travel Guide for top tips on how to spend your weekend.

As a childcare volunteer in Peru, you will provide additional support to childcare projects within the city of Cusco. Not only this, PMGY’s Peru volunteer programs provide a great foundation to improve your Spanish. Provide a much needed helping hand for some of the most disadvantaged and underprivileged children in the local communities as you volunteer with children in Peru.

BACKGROUND TO THE CHILDCARE PROGRAM

The majestic city of the Incas, whilst tourist-based and thriving, is a city of the poor. People will travel from hungry villages hoping to sell their crafts and clothes just to make enough to eat. Each year in the city of Cusco, millions of tourists visit to explore the Incan culture and venture to Machu Picchu. Although high tourism and a thriving economy exist, more than half of the population still lives in poverty.

Due to the inability to make enough money to support their families, tourists will encounter child beggars at all hours. Among the poverty, the ageless majesty of the Incan empire radiates from the streets of this historic city.

As you walk the cobblestone streets taking in what Peru has to offer, you will witness many street children. They may be posing with Llamas or adolescents pushing carts of cheese to the nearby market. You will be able to notice their features and recognise they are all direct descendants of the Andes rulers.

In this indigenous culture, many children are subject to troubling home environments due to low income, addiction, violence and neglect. We work with local organisations to help children that have great need. The projects range from kindergartens and daycare centres to supporting children with a range of physical and mental disabilities.

The kindergarten projects and those for working children are essential in restoring families. Furthermore, they are essential in providing necessary assistance to ensure children have additional support mechanisms. By completing volunteer work in Peru on these projects you are contributing so that children can be fed and educated. Ultimately, this will help children become positive citizens in their local communities.

Lower-class families do receive some minor assistance from the government. However, in many situations, the families still require their children to leave school and take to the streets for work. Due to this reality, local groups including police, language schools and local NGOs team up to provide support. This support includes provisions of free food, shelter, entertainment and clothing.

There has also been an increase in assistance for those with disabilities. In many parts of Peru, the conditions are far too rural to provide appropriate care for those with physical and mental disabilities. In Cusco, the local government has provided the necessary education and infrastructure to provide care for children of 4-17 years old.

Education centres and specialist schools have been developed to care for disabled children so parents can work and earn money. Such establishments focus on children with greater needs than the average child. Examples include supporting those with severe autism, bipolar, down syndrome, ADHD, Muscular Dystrophy and missing limbs.

Volunteer opportunities in Peru provided by PMGY will provide you with a platform to make a positive impact. When working at our childcare volunteer abroad projects in Peru, it is important to maintain energy, enthusiasm and creativity. Since many of these children will be seeking the care and attention that you as a childcare volunteer in Peru can bring. To volunteer with children in Peru, you will need to donate your time and skills effectively. This is to ensure you can maximise your impact on the local people.

CHILDCARE VOLUNTEER PLACEMENT EXAMPLES

The Pronoei Project – Established as a non-formal kindergarten for low-income families, the Pronoei project provides care and education for those that cannot afford it. This organization is funded by the Ministry of Education of Peru. The program is run by a member of the community. They are known as the ‘project mother’ and maintain the centre in a teacher role.

The children are 3-5 years old in one combined class. The working hours for this project are 9am-12:30pm. You will be assisting the ‘mother’ with different tasks including lesson planning, playing with the children and organising workshops. Such workshops will centre around culturally improving the care of children demonstrated by staff across the local communities.

As you volunteer in Peru at this project, you will also assist in areas such as nutrition and hygiene. Examples of this will include preparing meals and teaching the best techniques for brushing teeth and washing hands. This project provides volunteers with the foundation to create their own daily routines. Thus, as international volunteers, you can participate in the project in whichever areas you find interest with the children.

The project is generally home to around 30 children with just one community teacher. Thus, volunteers can provide an essential support mechanism for the oversized community project. The facilities are overcrowded and manic. Additionally, they are small, under-resourced and condensed so volunteer support is very much appreciated!

The Escuela Especial San Juan de Dios – Founded as a school centre for disadvantaged children, The Escuela Especial San Juan de Dios is home to children with disabilities of both mental and physical capacities.

In the city of Cusco, there are only 4 schools for disabled children which makes this program so special! You will work with children with the mental capacity of those up to 6th grade. Although they reach the 6th grade level, the children can be anywhere from 3-20 years of age. The work schedule is only in the morning from 8am-1pm. At times, there are occupational training courses for older children from 1pm-6pm.

In every classroom, there is one teacher with a maximum of 10 children. They have only one teacher-assistant that rotates through all courses. Because of this, volunteers are very welcome as most children require individual attention.

In a classroom of young children, you may encounter that the group sizes average around 6 children. However, the workload is much higher than those in bigger groups and at a higher age level. The teachers try very hard to educate the children in basic skills to then pass on to future levels of education. The children will also have skills to help at home in their spare time.

In the higher levels, the students will learn to do activities like sewing, cooking and art. These skills can be used at home, occupational jobs and/or doing tourism-based sales like artwork or local craft. This allows you to interact on a more detailed and personal level in a skill-based environment. The younger levels are enjoyable and more informal as you sing songs, learn letters and do some painting.

Specific tasks that volunteers will participate in are classroom assistance, meal team and food preparation. More creative aspects include crafts and stimulation activities for those with confining disabilities. If volunteers wish they can rotate between groups during their period of volunteering.

At Escuela Especial San Juan de Dios there is one physiotherapist that gives therapy during school schedule. A volunteer can be assisting during their work to gain experience and help when it is needed.

YOUR VOLUNTEER ROLE & TYPICAL CHILDCARE DAY

As you volunteer with children in Peru, your role involves supporting local staff with daily chores. Examples include providing volunteer support at mealtimes and with cleaning tasks. This extends to more creative support in arts and crafts, teaching English and improving hygiene skills. Volunteers should also assist with homework tasks and support local staff with planned activities.

The work schedule is flexible and will be set between you, the centre and our volunteer coordinator in Cusco. The local team will email you your specific project information, volunteer tasks and working hours in advance of your arrival into Cusco. You will be working on the volunteering abroad programs Monday-Friday. Please use your free time to plan for at least 3-5 hours on the project.

If you are up for it, take a 1 hour walk through the heart of Cusco to reach your childcare volunteer placement! Alternatively, you can take a 30 minute bus ride to reach your childcare project. The bus stop is located either just outside the volunteer accommodation or the Spanish school. Furthermore, the local team will assist you in learning the routes to your volunteer project. As a result, you will be acquainted with how to get to and from your volunteer project.

OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER WORKING WITH CHILDREN IN PERU

Resources – On the childcare project in Peru, resources can be very limited. Volunteers are recommended to bring materials to the project each day to maximise their productivity and day to day involvement. It is therefore important for volunteers to prepare well in advance to get the most out of their childcare volunteering experience in Peru.

Spanish Requirements – As for all our volunteer in Peru programs, we recommend that you speak basic to intermediate Spanish. The programs only require you to speak a basic level of Spanish. However, we find that the ability to speak a good level of the Spanish language will greatly enhance your overall experience. This is because English is generally not widely spoken. So if you do not speak a reasonable level of Spanish then you will find it difficult to communicate. As a result, this could lead to a more frustrating experience.

PMGY also offer Online Spanish Lessons that you can take before your trip. The lessons provide you with the opportunity to receive one-on-one classes from a trained Spanish teacher. Classes are held via Zoom and can be worked around your schedule back in your home country.

We also offer a learn Spanish in Peru program which you can take part in prior to your volunteer placement. This provides you with 20 hours-per-week of group Spanish lessons. Both of these options can be added during our online application process. They are highly recommended if you want to make the most of your volunteer placement.

Once you are in-country then you are also able to organise additional Spanish lessons directly with our local team. Volunteer feedback suggests that it can often be tiring to complete Spanish lessons at the same time as your volunteer programs in Peru. Consequently, we generally recommend extending your Language Immersion Program.

Project Commitment – For our childcare and teaching community projects we generally recommend where possible a minimum 4 week commitment from volunteers. This is so both the volunteer and project can maximise their experience.

We still have project availability for 2 and 3 week placement options where the placement benefits from volunteer support. However, such projects are usually limited to kindergartens for childcare and the afterschool project for English teaching. As a result, shorter-term volunteers will complete their volunteer work in such project settings accordingly.

Project Donation – With each volunteer, there is a donation made directly to the volunteer project you join us in Peru. This donation fee is included in the Program Fee you pay PMGY.

With that donation, the project is provided with increased financial support to improve resources, infrastructure and project environment. Such beneficiaries being the patients at the medical clinics, students at the schools, children at the kindergartens or the dogs at the dog shelter project.

Placement Settings – PMGY does not provide volunteer opportunities in orphanages in any of our locations. Research and studies have shown that visiting and volunteering in orphanages has the potential to generate an industry that separates children from their families. In turn, putting children at increased risk of neglect and abuse. Therefore, we do not support these institutions with our volunteer network.

Instead, we focus on offering alternative childcare volunteer opportunities whereby children come to and from the placement setting each day. In other words, our local teams collaborate with childcare projects which do not offer any form of residential care. These are safe, responsible, and vetted projects, where participants continue to provide valued assistance supporting local staff.

Weekends – Your project work in Peru runs from Monday-Friday and weekends are free. You are welcome to relax and hang out at the volunteer accommodation but most participants will use this time to travel and explore the country. As a result, you can check out our Peru Weekend Travel Guide for top tips on how to spend your weekend.

As a Peru dog rescue volunteer, you will get up close and personal to these amazing animals. Create a better life for Cusco’s street dog population. Not only this, PMGY’s Peru volunteer programs provide a great foundation to improve your Spanish. If you love dogs, the Peru dog rescue volunteer project is a great way to give back and make an impact!/strong>