Maximo Nivel, Costa Rica - Childcare

We worked at a daycare for underpriviledged children within San Jose. Our day began in the morning with Spanish lessons, followed by a bus ride to the daycare. At the daycare, the afternoon often started with nap time, followed by an arts and crafts period, possible play time outside at a soccer field or a playground, and ending with free time with the kids inside. The daycare staff and children did not speak any English, but we were able to communicate with them through the Spanish we learned during our lessons.

We were responsible for occupying the kids with activities during arts and crafts and free time. This involved preparing projects for the kids beforehand. The children sincerely appreciated projects such as snowmen crafts, painting, making Christmas cards, and "all about me" booklets. They also loved playing with the gifts we brought such as hoola hoops, bubbles, toy cars, fingerpaint, tattoos, and a soccer ball.

I felt safe throughout the project and Maximo staff were able to help with any questions I had. The homestay was with a very nice family who prepared excellent meals for us. Evening activities organized by Maximo were enjoyable and well-organized.