Involvement Volunteers International WHY we need you in Mexico
- Poverty is more prevalent in rural areas than in urban areas, with rural poverty rates nearly double those of urban areas.
- Indigenous communities in Mexico have some of the highest poverty rates in the country, with almost 75% of the indigenous population living in poverty.
- Poverty disproportionately affects women in Mexico, with higher rates of poverty and lower rates of employment and access to education compared to men.
- The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on poverty in Mexico, with estimates suggesting that the poverty rate increased by around 10 percentage points in 2020 due to job losses and reduced economic activity.
- Despite the existence of a universal healthcare system, access to healthcare remains a significant issue in Mexico.
HOW can you help?
- Collaborate with local teachers
- Provide individual attention to students who may need extra help
- Foster language skills by introducing Basic English phrases and communication
- Monitor each child's progress and development
WHAT you can do?
- Engage children in a variety of extracurricular activities, such as sports, art, music, and dance
- Arrange activities with the children (games, song, coloring, writing, basic English teaching)
- Inspire the kids to learn!
- Help out in the classroom and assist the local teacher
Why Involvement Volunteers International?
- Non Profit Org & Charity with 35+ Years Experience
- Impactful Projects to Choose From in Mexico
- Social Experiences - Sharing with International Volunteers
- Excellent Safety Record, In-Country 24/7 Support & Emergency Assistance
- 1 Application Fee - Multiple Countries
PROJECT NAME: KINDERGARTEN TEACHING
LOCATION: PUERTO ESCONDIDO
START DATES: WEEKLY (SAT/SUN ARRIVALS)
ACCOMMODATION: HOSTEL
MIN DURATION: ONE WEEK
MIN AGE: 16+
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Criminal background check required
Overview
In Puerto Escondido, Mexico, the kindergarten is a crucial early step in the educational journey for young children. Introducing them to English at this tender age can have a profound impact on their future. Commencing their English learning adventure at such a young age will lay a sturdy foundation for their language skills.
Just like kindergartens worldwide, the approach to teaching here is informal, recognising that children are naturally inclined to play and explore. However, by igniting their enthusiasm for school and introducing basic English phrases, such as simple greetings, you are essentially sowing the seeds for a lifelong love of learning.
Beyond language, you’ll collaborate with local teachers and staff to provide top-quality educational content following the national curriculum. This program extends beyond the confines of traditional academics, encompassing a diverse array of extracurricular activities, including sports, art, music, and dance. These activities are thoughtfully designed to foster the overall development of the children, ensuring they not only excel academically but also thrive in various aspects of their lives.
Your Role
You will play a pivotal role in shaping the lives of young children aged 3 to 5 years. This is a critical phase in their development where they are laying the groundwork for essential cognitive, social, and emotional skills that will significantly influence their future academic achievements.
Curriculum Delivery: Collaborate with local teachers to provide age-appropriate educational content that aligns with the national curriculum. This includes planning and conducting lessons that promote learning and engagement.
Individualised Support: Provide individual attention to students who may require extra assistance or have specific learning needs, ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive.
Language Development: Foster language skills by introducing basic English phrases and communication, helping children develop their language abilities from a young age.
Play-Based Learning: Acknowledge that informal, play-based learning is crucial at this stage. Encourage interactive and creative activities that stimulate cognitive and social development.
Classroom Management: Maintain a safe, organised, and stimulating classroom environment that supports the learning process and encourages positive behavior.
Assessment and Progress Tracking: Monitor the progress and development of each child, maintain records, and provide feedback to parents or guardians.
Extracurricular Activities: Engage children in a variety of extracurricular activities, such as sports, art, music, and dance, to promote holistic growth.
Community Integration: Embrace the opportunity to become an integral part of the local community, building strong connections with children, families, and fellow educators.
Your role as a kindergarten teacher in Puerto Escondido goes beyond the typical classroom setting. You are helping these young learners acquire the skills and knowledge they need for a successful academic journey and a promising future.
Location
Puerto Escondido, situated on the Pacific coast of Mexico in the state of Oaxaca, is a picturesque seaside town celebrated for its world-class surfing beaches, such as Zicatela Beach, and its laid-back, bohemian atmosphere. This hidden gem offers visitors a taste of authentic Mexican culture, delightful cuisine, and breathtaking sunsets, making it a beloved destination for those seeking a tranquil coastal retreat with a touch of adventure.
Project Tasks
- Boost Confidence and English Proficiency of kids
- Foster Cognitive, Social, and Emotional Growth
- Expand Cultural Interactions
- Deliver Quality Education Aligned with the National Curriculum
- Encouraging Holistic Development
Food & Accommodation
You will stay in single gender rooms in a typical hostel setting in Puerto Escondido, with 1-8 people per room. Our local hostel host is enthusiastic about facilitating family-style interactions and cultural exchanges.
You will have a hot shower, fans, western toilet. Wi-Fi is not included by you may find this in nearby restaurants, etc. Laundry can be done by hand or at an extra fee.
You’ll stay in one of two hostels in the downtown area, conveniently located near the heart of Puerto Escondido, a charming beach town known for its friendly local community. While it has gained popularity over the years, it has retained its untouched, rustic charm and is part of one of the more affordable and underrated states in Mexico. Oaxaca is renowned for its exquisite beaches and capital city, making it a favoured destination for eco-tourist backpackers seeking an authentic Mexican experience away from the modern world’s influence.
In Puerto Escondido, there are plenty of beach-related activities to enjoy, with surfing being a major draw that attracts tourists from all over the world during the surf season.
You will get 3 meals a day on weekdays, and 2 on weekends. The food will be traditional Mexican, with plenty of corn tortillas, beans, rice, chili peppers, potatoes, wheat and other grains, and chicken, all of which are vegetarian-friendly. Keep in mind that some local dishes may be spicy!
All meals will be provided at the mentioned accommodation. Every day of the program, three full meals will be provided, beginning with breakfast at 8am, lunch at 12pm, and dinner at 6 p.m. On weekends, there are two meals available: brunch at 10 a.m. and dinner at 6 p.m. Food consists primarily of traditional local dishes prepared and served at the accommodation or in the surrounding area. Meals will be served based on your dietary requirements, but you must notify us in advance.
*Accommodation may be in our local centre or in close proximity, depending on availability and time of year.
Mexico
Projects - Standard
- Animal Shelter
- Kindergarten Teaching
- English Teaching
- Environmental Conservation
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1 Week - $481
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2 Weeks - $762
-
3 Weeks - $1143
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1 Month - $1524
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2 Months - $3049
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3 Months - $4574
What's Included
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Accommodation
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Meals
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Airport Pickup
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Local Transportation
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1 Day Orientation
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24/7 In-Country Support
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Project Materials & Equipment
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Pre-departure Expert Advice
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Preperation Tools & Checklists
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Certificate of Completion
- Application fee is one off per person (unlimited placements)
- Click Here to convert the below prices to your local currency
- Discounts may apply if travelling in a pair or group!
- All credit card /international fees included in below pricing! 🙂
FAQ
For those who are looking to enter a career working with children, or who are already teachers, this program will be a fantastic opportunity for you to engage with the children, learn about their culture and to help futher their prospects for the future.
- Accommodation
- 3 meals p/day & 2 p/day at weekends
- Arrival airport transfer (Sat/Sun arrivals)
- Filtered drinking water, coffee & tea
- 1 day orientation
- Daily transportation to project
- In country 24/7 support & emergency assistance
- Fundraising support
- University course credits (where applicable)
- Certificate of Completion
- Airfares
- Travel Insurance
- Tours, Souvenirs & spending money
Programs begin every Monday, and volunteers are required to arrive the day prior, for orientation before the project. Your accommodation on the Sunday is included in the program fees.
A free airport pickup is included when arriving to Puerto Escondido International Airport (PXM) on Sunday from 8am to 5pm.
If you arrive outside the pickup times, you can book a private transfer for an extra fee.
If you want to book any extra nights before or after your program, you can do this for an extra fee.
Alternatively, if arriving early you could wait at the arrival’s terminal for the pickup time, book accommodation at the airport and meet us during the pickup times or make your own way to the project (we will advise on how to do this).
From the airport to your accommodation it takes around 10 mins by taxi.
Monday: Orientation
- Breakfast
- Introduction meeting, House rules, Setting Expectations, Health and Safety Advice, handling of documents and signing up of relevant documents.
- Mexican Do’s and Don’ts, Dress Codes, Mexican Culture Lessons and Basic Mexican Language Lessons.
- Tour Around the Town’s center and Local Area, and arrange a sim card if necessary.
- Lunch
- Project Meetings, Observation and Preparations with assigned Local Program Coordinators.
- Welcome Dinner
Tuesday to Friday
Morning Session:
- Breakfast
- Teaching Sessions and Activities at the Kindergarten. Arrange activities with the children (games, song, coloring, writing, basic English teaching) and support the local kindergarten staff with disciplining, managing and caretaking
- Lunch
- Resume Teaching activities
- Dinner
***This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions, local holidays and any other unforeseen circumstances.***
*Schedule possible to change due to the project and community needs at the time. Volunteer flexibility and adaptability is important to a positive volunteering experience.
Explore the ancient ruins: Mexico is home to many ancient ruins, including the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza and the Aztec ruins of Teotihuacan. These sites offer a glimpse into the country’s rich history and culture.
Relax on the beaches: Mexico has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, including the popular resort towns of Cancun, Cabo San Lucas, and Puerto Vallarta.
Experience the local cuisine: Mexican cuisine is world-renowned, and there’s no better place to experience it than in Mexico. From street tacos to fine dining, there’s something for every taste and budget.
Visit colonial cities: Mexico has many charming colonial cities, such as San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato, that offer a glimpse into the country’s Spanish colonial past.
Attend cultural festivals: Mexico has many vibrant cultural festivals throughout the year, such as Dia de los Muertos, which celebrate the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Explore natural wonders: Mexico has many natural wonders, such as the Copper Canyon and the Cenotes of the Yucatan Peninsula, that are worth exploring.
Take a boat tour to see whales and dolphins: Mexico’s coastlines are home to a variety of marine life, including whales and dolphins. Take a boat tour to see these majestic creatures up close.
Go on a hot air balloon ride: See the stunning landscape of Mexico from a new perspective by taking a hot air balloon ride over the countryside. This is a unique way to experience the natural beauty of Mexico.
Explore the art scene: Mexico has a thriving art scene, with many museums and galleries showcasing both traditional and contemporary Mexican art. The Frida Kahlo Museum and the Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City are must-sees for art lovers.
Visit the monarch butterfly sanctuaries: Every winter, millions of monarch butterflies migrate to Mexico’s forests to escape the colder climate up north. Visit the sanctuaries in Michoacán to witness this incredible natural phenomenon.
Go on a jungle adventure: Mexico is home to some of the most biodiverse jungles in the world, offering opportunities for hiking, zip-lining, and wildlife spotting. The jungles of Chiapas and the Yucatan Peninsula are particularly popular for outdoor activities.
* Basic (knowledge in Spanish will be an added advantage)
Additional Requirements
The following are further necessary in order for the participants, local staff and everyone involved to have a meaningful, enjoyable and safe community program.
- Genuine interests and passion for teaching.
- Since you are working with kids with so much energy and different personalities, a decent level of energy and patience are required.
- Older participants are required to have a medical clearance, while participants under 18 might need signed parental consent.
- Excellent time management and self-organizing and a strong desire to take on new challenges and learn as much as possible.
Additional Equipment
Teaching Materials (Optional):
- You are encouraged to bring games, books, colored pencils, chalk, rulers, and a variety of interactive educational resources.
- Consider bringing personal pictures from your home country, showcasing your family and friends, to facilitate cultural exchange.
- Additionally, include small cultural objects that represent your country of origin to enhance the learning experience.
Personal Attire and Accessories:
- Please pack modest or business casual attire suitable for school and village interactions. Ensure that your clothing covers the knees and shoulders, avoiding revealing, tight-fitting, sheer, or low-cut attire.
- For outdoor activities, it’s advisable to have insect repellent (Deet) to protect against potential insect bites.
- Keep a reusable water bottle or hydration pack with you to stay well-hydrated throughout the day.
- Be sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to shield yourself from the sun’s rays during outdoor engagements.
- Carry your personal medications and a well-equipped first aid kit in case of any unforeseen medical needs.
- Include wet wipes, a facemask, hand sanitizer, and a notebook with a pen
For information on holidays and any programs affected, please see the following link:
Mexico is a fascinating country located in the southern part of North America. It has a rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and a vibrant and diverse population. Mexico is known for its iconic landmarks such as the ancient ruins of Teotihuacan, the beautiful beaches of Cancun, and the impressive Mayan and Aztec architecture found throughout the country.
Mexico’s culture is a unique blend of indigenous, European, and African influences, making it a fascinating destination for travelers interested in history, art, and culture. The country is also renowned for its delicious cuisine, including dishes such as tacos, enchiladas, and guacamole. Visitors can explore the vibrant cities, picturesque towns, and natural wonders that Mexico has to offer, from the bustling streets of Mexico City to the tranquil beaches of Tulum. With its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes, Mexico is a destination that has something to offer for everyone.
Mexico has a diverse climate due to its large size and varied topography. The climate in Mexico ranges from tropical to desert, with the temperature and rainfall patterns varying depending on the region.
In general, Mexico’s climate is characterized by two seasons: a wet season and a dry season. The wet season typically runs from May to October and brings heavy rainfall, particularly in the southern and eastern regions of the country. The dry season runs from November to April and is characterized by sunny and dry weather, with cooler temperatures in the northern regions of the country.
The coastal areas of Mexico, particularly on the Pacific side, are known for their hot and humid climate, with temperatures averaging between 25-30°C (77-86°F) year-round. Inland areas are generally cooler, with the central highlands experiencing a temperate climate with cooler temperatures and occasional frosts during the winter months. The northern regions of Mexico, including the Baja California peninsula and the Sonoran Desert, have a desert climate with hot summers and mild winters.
The country’s culture is famous for its colourful art, music, and cuisine, as well as its vibrant traditions and festivals.
One of the most significant aspects of Mexican culture is its art. From the ancient Mayan and Aztec art to the contemporary works of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, Mexican art is renowned for its vibrant colours, bold designs, and powerful symbolism. Mexican music is also an essential part of the country’s cultural identity, with styles ranging from mariachi and ranchera to salsa and cumbia. The country’s rich cultural heritage is celebrated through its festivals and traditions, such as Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), a holiday that honours deceased loved ones through colourful altars, food, and music.
30 Years Non Profit Experience
IVI is an Australian charity & non profit organisation founded in 1989 and is one of the pioneers of overseas volunteering successfully placing over 20,000 volunteers globally.
Affordable Volunteer Travel
We’re not motivated by shareholder profits. Our fees are fully transparent to ensure maximum benefit where it is most needed.
Safe & Responsible Projects
All projects include a dedicated 24/7 in-country management team, operational & risk assessment & overseas support contact. All projects are personally inspected to ensure very high quality.
Work Experience & University Credits
We place thousands of Uni students and can assist you with course credits and in-field experience points. Many of our project coordinators are qualified practitioners in their respective fields allowing unique in-field supervision and Uni accreditation options
Check out this amazing blog with step by step info on how to raise funds for your overseas volunteer experience to help maximize your impact abroad. Guide to Fundraising
Weekends & Extra Tours
