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Lead Teacher

location
4 - 40 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Play-based learning that empowers children through games, creativity, and emotional expression.
  • A non-formal education approach focused on emotional intelligence, communication, and conflict resolution.
  • A safe, inclusive, and joyful environment where every child is respected and supported.

Highlights

  • Play-based learning that empowers children through games, creativity, and emotional expression.
  • A non-formal education approach focused on emotional intelligence, communication, and conflict resolution.
  • A safe, inclusive, and joyful environment where every child is respected and supported.
  • Daily activities full of culture, sports, art, and storytelling, guided by caring volunteers.
  • A chance to make real social impact while gaining valuable experience in child development and community work.


  • Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Join a fun and meaningful volunteer project that supports children of working parents through play, emotional learning, and creative activities. Be a role model.

    Join our volunteer program and become part of a playful, and socially impactful project focused on supporting children whose parents work full-time. Our space is not a typical classroom — it's a living, breathing world of creativity, emotional connection, and joyful exploration. 

     At ...

    About the program

    Join our volunteer program and become part of a playful, and socially impactful project focused on supporting children whose parents work full-time. Our space is not a typical classroom — it's a living, breathing world of creativity, emotional connection, and joyful exploration. 

     At our non-formal learning center, we focus on:

    • 🌱 Emotional education – Helping children recognize, express, and manage their feelings.
    • 💬 Assertive communication – Encouraging respectful and empathetic dialogue.
    • 🧠 Conflict resolution – Teaching kids how to solve problems peacefully.
    • 🌍 Collective well-being – Building habits that benefit themselves, their community, and the planet.

    We do all of this through fun, engaging activities like games, cultural workshops, sports, music, storytelling, and artistic expression — all in a safe and welcoming environment full of laughter, movement, and discovery. 

    As a volunteer, you’ll:

    •   Connect with amazing kids and like-minded people.
    • Learn practical skills in emotional intelligence and community work.
    • Be part of a transformative initiative with a long-lasting impact.
    • Gain meaningful experience for your academic and personal growth.

    Whether you're studying education, psychology, social work, arts — or simply have a heart for children and social change — this is your chance to give back, grow, and create joy.

    You’ll guide children through daily activities, model respectful interaction, and bring your own personality into the space. Whether you’re leading a drawing workshop, a team sport, a mindfulness moment, or a group story circle, you’ll be making a real difference.

    Our main goal is to keep children learning, playing, and growing happily. 

    This is an example of our daily activities:

    • Homework Club
    • Creative Workshop
    • Storytelling
    • Art Workshop
    • Board Games
    • Skills Workshop
    • Body Wellness Club
    • Knitting Workshop
    • Fun Dessert Workshop
    • Film and Sharing Club

    Volunteer Profile Required:

    • People passionate about childhood development 
    • Volunteers looking for hands-on, meaningful experiences 
    • Creative and empathetic individuals 
    • Spanish speakers (mandatory)


    Typical day

    We have 3 workshops per day that happen during the afternoon, from 12:00 pm to 7:00 pm. As a volunteer, your typical day will be attending the workshops in one of the both shifts 
    • 12:00 - 17:00 hrs
    • 14:00 - 19:00 hrs
    Even that this is an independent volunteering position as you will be the leader, You ...

    Typical day

    We have 3 workshops per day that happen during the afternoon, from 12:00 pm to 7:00 pm. As a volunteer, your typical day will be attending the workshops in one of the both shifts 
    • 12:00 - 17:00 hrs
    • 14:00 - 19:00 hrs
    Even that this is an independent volunteering position as you will be the leader, You will always work as part of a supportive team, and receive guidance and orientation so you feel confident and inspired in your role.
    Activities might include:
    • Designing of the dayli and weekly activities program
    • Preparing the room to have it ready for the next work shop (3 workshops per day)
    • Leading interactive games that promote cooperation and emotional expression
    • Keeping a harmonious group dynamic
    • Organizing art, music or storytelling workshops to encourage creativity
    • Supervising physical activities or outdoor play in a safe and fun environment
    • Facilitating short sessions on emotional awareness or eco-conscious habits
    • Supporting children in resolving small conflicts through conversation and empathy
    • Creating a safe and welcoming atmosphere where every child feels seen and valued
    • Proposing your own activities or projects based on your talents and interests
    • Cleaning your work area and close the activities

    Free-time activities

    On your free time you will be able to enjoy the natural beauty and cultural richness of Mexican Caribbean. Puerto Morelos, this charming coastal town is a hidden gem on the Riviera Maya, perfect for relaxing and exploring.
    Here are some great ways to spend your free time:
    Beach Days
    Walk to the beach ...

    Free-time activities

    On your free time you will be able to enjoy the natural beauty and cultural richness of Mexican Caribbean. Puerto Morelos, this charming coastal town is a hidden gem on the Riviera Maya, perfect for relaxing and exploring.
    Here are some great ways to spend your free time:
    Beach Days
    Walk to the beach and unwind with the sound of the waves. Puerto Morelos has calm, crystal-clear water — ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or reading under a palm tree. Our volunteer home is 4 km away from the beach. 

    Snorkeling & Diving
    Explore the second largest Coral Reef in the world! Snorkeling tours are easy to access and reveal colorful marine life just minutes from the shore. 

    Walk Around Town
    Puerto Morelos is small. Discover local markets, cafés, murals, and artisanal shops — all with a peaceful, community vibe.

    Visit Cenotes
    Cool off in nearby cenotes — stunning freshwater sinkholes hidden in the jungle. Perfect for swimming, exploring, and taking amazing photos. Next to Puerto Morelos, RUTA DE LOS CENOTES (Cenote Route) is located with more than 20 cenote options. 

    Weekend Trips
    Take a short trip to nearby destinations like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, or even the ruins of Chichén Itzá. Public transport is affordable and easy to navigate.

    Yoga & Wellness
    Join a yoga class, enjoy a massage, or take part in local wellness workshops — Puerto Morelos is full of peaceful energy.

    Live Music & Culture
    Enjoy live music in the town square, try traditional Mexican dishes, or learn some Spanish while meeting locals and other travelers.

    Bike Rental
    There´s a lot of alternatives to rent a bike or even a Scooter to run the place. 

    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak Spanish (intermediate level) or English (intermediate level)

    Education Requirements

    at High School level

    Criminal Background Check

    required

    Required Documents

    CV and Motivation letter

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Other Skills

    - Leadership - Empathy - Patience - Physical Condition to run sport activities - Capability of working with neurodivergences - Creativity - Organizing skills - Autonomy - Knowledge about Human Rights of Children

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 14:00 - 19:00

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    What’s Included:

    • Accommodation
    You’ll stay in a shared room (double occupancy) with two single beds and a private bathroom. The space is clean, safe, and welcoming — perfect for relaxing after a joyful day with the kids.
    • One healthy vegetarian meal (lunch) per day during your program (Monday to Friday)
    We provide a nutritious and delicious lunch, with local flavors and fresh ingredients to keep you energized.

    • Airport pick-up
    We’ll pick you up from the International Cancun Airport and bring you directly to our location in Puerto Morelos — stress-free and ready to start your adventure.

    • Orientation & Training
    You’ll receive a welcome orientation and ongoing support to feel confident and inspired throughout your stay.

    • Certificate of Participation
    At the end of your program, you’ll receive an official certificate acknowledging your impact and learning.
    • A supportive team & a lot of fun!
    You’ll be part of a loving community, working side-by-side with locals and other international volunteers.

    What’s Not Included:
    • Flights to and from Mexico
    • Breakfast and dinner (you’ll have access to a kitchen and local food spots)
    • Travel insurance (required)
    • Transportation during your stay
    • Transportation from volunteer home to the airport
    • Personal expenses or leisure activities

    Airport Pickup at Cancun International Airport

    ONE WAY TRANSPORTATION IS INCLUDED

    Pick up from the Cancun Airport to our Volunteer Home. Let us know your flight details and we make sure someone is waiting for you and brings you to the volunteer home

    *Please note: Transportation from Volunteer Home to Airport is not included. It is available with an extra charge. 

    Accommodation

    Welcome to your new home away from home! 

    The house where you'll be staying is simple, cozy, and fully equipped with everything you need to feel comfortable and at ease. 

    You’ll be sharing a room with one other volunteer. Each room has:

    • Two single beds
    • Natural light and space to store your belongings
    • Shared bathrooms in the house
    • Common spaces are friendly and relaxed — perfect for resting, chatting, or sharing meals with your fellow volunteers. You’ll find:
    • A fully functional kitchen
    • Wi-Fi connection
    • Basic cleaning supplies and essentials

    It’s a great space to relax after a fulfilling day, and a unique opportunity to live in community with like-minded changemakers from around the world.

    This house isn’t just home to our volunteers — it’s also home to two friendly resident cats! They roam freely throughout the space and love to lounge in sunny corners or quietly observe the daily rhythm of the house. They’re sweet, calm, and well-behaved — but they are cats and part of the family. For this reason, we kindly ask that volunteers are cat-friendly and comfortable sharing their space with feline roommates. Please help us care for their well-being by respecting their space, not feeding them outside mealtimes, and keeping doors/gates closed when needed.

    Volunteer Essentials

    Here’s a handy list to help you pack for your stay in Puerto Morelos:

    • Clothing
    • Light, comfortable clothes for warm weather 
    • A sweater or light jacket for windy days or cool evenings 
    • Swimwear (you’ll be close to the beach and cenotes!) 
    • Comfortable shoes for walking or light sports 
    • Flip flops or sandals 
    • Hat or cap for sun protection 
    • Pijamas and enough underwear for a week
    •  Personal Care
    • Towel and toiletries (biodegradable preferred)
    • Sunscreen (reef-safe if you’ll snorkel!)
    • Insect repellent
    • Any prescription medication you may need
    • Reusable water bottle
    • Small personal first-aid kit

    For Volunteering

    • Clothes you don’t mind getting messy (paint, glue, etc.)
    • Notebook or journal
    • Your favorite books or games to share with kids (optional but welcome!)
    • Any materials you'd like to use for creative activities

    Extras

    • Power adapter (Mexico uses 110V Type A/B plugs)
    • Headphones
    • Flashlight or headlamp
    • A good book for quiet evenings

    Food & Beverages

    As part of your volunteer experience, you'll receive one nutritious and delicious meal per day at lunch time.  Each lunch typically includes:
    • A fresh soup or salad
    • A hearty main dish (vegetarian and full of local flavors)
    • Warm tortillas, because… you’re in Mexico!
    • Drinking water is available at all times in the house, so remember to bring your reusable water bottle and stay hydrated, especially in the tropical climate.
    All meals are made with wholesome, local ingredients, and prepared with love. They’re designed to nourish your body and keep you energized throughout the day.

    If you have any food allergies or dietary needs, just let us know in advance — we’ll do our best to accommodate you!

    While only lunch is included, you’ll have full access to a shared kitchen in the house. It’s equipped with:
    • A refrigerator
    • Electric stove / hot plate
    • Basic kitchen utensils and cookware
    • A cozy dining area to enjoy your meals
    • You’ll find plenty of supermarkets, fruit & veggie stands, and local shops within walking or biking distance, where you can buy everything you need to prepare your own breakfast and dinner.
    Whether you enjoy cooking or discovering local ingredients, living in Puerto Morelos makes it easy to eat well on a budget.


    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Cancun International Airport (CUN) in Cancun. We assist you to find cheap flights to Mexico. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Mexico provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Mexico you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Mexico. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    We start new programs every Friday morning. So, we expect you to arrive by Thursday.

    Thursday
    • We pick you up at the Cancun International Airport and drive you to our volunteer home. 
    *PLEASE NOTE: You can also arrive 2 or more days before as long as you cover the housing rate for the days before your program starts).
    Friday schedule for welcoming (10:00 am - 3:00 pm)
    • Introducing the team and activities
    • Volunteer home tour and regulations
    • Volunteer Program Induction 
    • Schedule, logistics and organization will be acorded during the induction
    • Puerto Morelos Town and beach Tour
    • Playroom dynamics observation
    • End of activities 
    Saturday and Sunday: Days Off

    Monday to Friday: Lunch and Work
    • Lunch time will be agreed
    • Playroom runs from 12:00 to 7:00 pm
    • Your volunteering schedule will be 5 hours per day: 12:00 - 5:00 pm or 2:00 - 7:00 pm (depends on availability)
    *PLEASE NOTE: Volunteer home is located right above the Play Center.

    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program Fees

    $189 per week 4 - 40 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    4 - 40 weeks

    Deposit

    Reserve your spot with just a few clicks and a small, secure deposit. You can pay by credit card, PayPal, or other convenient methods.


    Final Payment

    You’ll agree on the final payment method with your local organization during the application process. This final payment is only due closer to the start of your trip.

    4.81
    15 reviews

    2025
    I talked to Ixchel about this idea of running a kid's baseball camp and she agreed to do it within the sports sessions at La Ludo Puerto ...
    Larry Brinn

    Lead Teacher

    2025
    I traveled with my sisters for a volunteer experience and it couldn´t be better. We found Ixchel and her project for the disadvantaged ...
    Suemi Mazariego

    Lead Teacher

    2024
    Ixchel runs a playroom for poor kids and she is amazing. I was in charge of 3 workshops: Cinema, Yoga and Cooking and enjoy every single ...
    Misha

    Lead Teacher

    2024
    I went to volunteer doing activities with the children from a community named Guapinole, in the coast of Oaxaca. We did artistic, sport, and ...
    Irina Toledo

    Lead Teacher

    2023
    Mi participación fue bien dirigida por Ixchel lo cual era lo que más me preocupaba antes de acudir al lugar. Disfruto mucho las ...
    Paulina Valezzi

    Lead Teacher

    2023
    Working with children living in disadvantaged situations gave me the opportunity to recognize how fortunate I am. I learned to connect more ...
    Mish Gonx

    Lead Teacher

    Location

    Americas > Central America > Mexico > Puerto Morelos

    Meet your project coordinator

    Ixchel
    15
    reviews
    4.81
    Excellent
    2017
    Founded

    Verified

      Below average response rate
    Spoken languages: English, Spanish
    Travel safely by using Volunteer World for your communication and bookings. This way, you can benefit from the Flex Option, Refund Guarantee, and Resolution Support.

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    Contact Ixchel
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    English, Spanish

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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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