Childcare Project (Rio de Janeiro)

Project Summary

Experience one of the vibrant and spectacular cities in the world and give love and care to young kids from disadvantaged background.

While Rio is known for magnificent beaches, leafy boulevards and glittering skyscrapers, it is also infamous for shanty towns that sprawl the hill side and the poverty that is associated with it. While the rich can afford many luxuries, for the poor even giving a good education and taking good care of their kids is something they find it really hard. As a volunteer in the project, you will work with children from poorer background and help them gain confidence. The attention and care you will give the kids will also make them feel loved and cared and make them believe in themselves.

Volunteer Responsibilities

Volunteers will work in a day care center. You will help the local staffs take good care of the children. You will spend time with the children helping them with learning activities like developing fine motor skills, teaching them writing, painting, playing different games with them, teaching English and music. Volunteers can also help in the administration and fundraise.

Skills/Qualifications

This is a very hands-on project. Volunteers will be working with the children and you must be comfortable working with children. Basic Portuguese is not required but recommended. Volunteers must also be flexible, open minded and resourceful.

Project Location

This project is located in one of the largest favelas in Rio de Janeiro. These favelas were known for high crime rate but due to the police action and the police presence, the crime scene is virtually non-existence now. Poverty, however, remains entrenched in the favelas as usually it's the low-income families that settle in the favelas.

When not at the project volunteers will have plenty to do in their free time. Volunteers can soak up some sun at one of Rio's famous beaches, or go hiking in one of the largest in urban parks in the world. You can go see the wonderful views from Corcovado or Sugar Loaf. There is also excellent night life to experience as well as museums and theatres throughout the city. All of these activities are available through Rio's extensive public transportation system.

For safety reasons, always be aware of where you are going and the best time to go. Ask the local coordinator or trustworthy locals if ever in doubt or need more information.