Project Overview
Located in Huanchaquito, Cuna Mas, (formerly called Wawa Wasi, which means children’s home in Quechua) is a day nursery service for children aged from 6 months to 4 years, funded by the Peruvian Government's Ministry for Women. During the week, some reliable mothers from the local community look after, feed and teach young children from the local area.
The program has 3 main objectives:
Health & Nutrition: Cuna Mas strives to protect and improve children’s health and development through the provision of good quality food in a safe and clean environment. The children get at least three meals per day (out of the 5 required for their age group) made with fresh, healthy food - this is especially important for those children who come from extreme poverty.
Early education: Cuna Mas also offers various basic educational programs to develop the children's learning ability through social and physical activities.
Enhanced Security: Cuna Mas offers a safe and comfortable environment where children can play and develop as children should, without the risk of abuse or kidnap.
With the help from volunteers, Cuna Mas envisions to take an active role in the growth and early education of children in Huanchaquito. Volunteers are expected to help out with the daily tasks of caring for young children, while helping to maintain a safe and clean environment for the children to play in.
Volunteer Roles:
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Looking after children at all times
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Feeding the children
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Spending dedicated time with children who have socialization issues.
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Taking part in scheduled activities organized by Cuna Mas.
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Preparing the nursery for the arrival of the children in the morning, and clearing up at the end of each day
The nursery is open from 8am to 4pm Monday to Friday. Volunteers are expected to work a 20 hour week so are free to choose their own hours within these times.
Volunteer Requirements
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Spanish Level required: Basic
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Time Commitment: 3 weeks min
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Females between 20 and 50 years old
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Strong sense of responsibility - you are dealing with someone else’s children!
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High energy levels to cope with all the planned activities
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Patience and a good natured personality
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The ability to work off your own initiative, with minimal supervision
