The working with kids program in Guatemala provides individual attention and assistance to children from underprivileged homes and communities. Many children at the projects we work with are affected by a challenging home life, little to no schooling and alcohol and drug abuse within their families. Volunteers will work in after school programs, daycares, orphanages and schools. Volunteers play an important role in working alongside local Spanish-speaking staff to improve the educational, emotional, and physical conditions of the children.

The children at the projects we work with require a lot of care, attention and most importantly, companionship. Work varies but generally consists of providing individual attention, playing with children, organizing games and activities, educating children regarding hygiene and nutrition, and assisting with homework. Volunteers are encouraged to use their skills and interests to develop workshops such as music and dance, jewelry making, aerobics, arts and crafts, etc.

Participants are supported by our in-country coordinators but they are not on site at your project every day. Participants should expect their childcare project to feel disorganized, understaffed, and underfunded. In fact, this is why they need volunteers! The children are always happy to see volunteers and are very welcoming. Enthusiasm and creativity are truly needed and appreciated.

The majority of our projects are located in and around La Antigua. Travel time varies from project to project, but volunteers can expect to spend 15-90 minutes traveling each way, either walking or using local buses or taxis. For the first visit to the project, they are taken by a Maximo Nivel representative using the local transport and given additional information about how to get to and from your project. Local bus rides are very affordable and a one way trip will rarely cost more than Q8 (about $1). Taxis & tuk-tuks cost approximately Q10 to Q30 (about US$1.20 to US$2.50) one way within Antigua.