As a childcare volunteer in Costa Rica, you'll play a vital role in supporting childcare projects within the Coronado community. PMGY’s Costa Rica volunteer programs also offer an excellent opportunity to enhance your Spanish skills. By blending your passion for working with children and your interest in language learning, you’ll create a truly rewarding experience as you volunteer with children in Costa Rica!
Childcare Volunteer Program Highlights
- Support The UN’s Sustainable Development Goal No. 4 Through Education
- Build Practical Childcare Skills Supporting Children Across Coronado Daycares
- Engage Children Through Learning, Play, Creative Activities & Daily Care
- Explore More Of Costa Rica With Weekend Trips To La Fortuna & Jaco Beach
- Experience Costa Rican Culture Through Salsa, Cooking Classes & Coffee Tours
Background to the Childcare Program
Compared to other parts of Latin America, Costa Rica enjoys good living standards and higher levels of education. However, families from disadvantaged communities still face significant challenges and often rely on community and social initiatives for support.
Much of this assistance comes from local organisations and religious groups. For instance, churches often raise funds and organise events to provide activities and support for underprivileged children and their families. Due to the involvement of the church, there is a strong Christian influence in the local community, which volunteers will encounter regularly.
Many parents who are able to work face long hours, starting early in the morning and finishing late at night. To support these families, the state and community provide affordable and well-equipped day-care centres. In Coronado, there are several nurseries where young children receive meals, education, and a safe place to rest.
The childcare projects in Costa Rica are well-maintained and resourced, showcasing a positive example of community investment. However, many of the children attending these nurseries come from low-income families. In cases where families cannot afford essentials like new uniforms, the wider community often steps in to help.
The volunteer role at these projects may not seem as obvious as in less-resourced settings, as the facilities and materials are abundant. Yet, the children still face tough living conditions outside the nurseries. Volunteers play a vital role in brightening the children’s days and providing much-needed support to local staff, as caregiver-to-child ratios can reach up to 1:25. Expect to engage in fun activities like craft sessions, singing, and assisting during mealtimes when you are abroad volunteering.
To help volunteers prepare, the childcare program includes a one-week Spanish language course at the start of your project. These lessons are designed to enhance your communication skills, setting you up for a more meaningful and engaging experience as a childcare volunteer in Costa Rica.
PMGY’s volunteer opportunities in Costa Rica provide a platform to make a positive impact. When volunteering at our childcare volunteer abroad programs, it’s essential to bring energy, enthusiasm, and creativity. Many of these children are looking for the care and attention you can provide. To make the most of your time as a volunteer with children in Costa Rica, your dedication and effective use of time and skills will ensure a lasting impact on the local community.
Childcare Volunteer Placement Examples
Tu Mundo de Colores - Located near downtown Coronado, this project welcomes approximately 50 children daily. As you complete volunteer work in Costa Rica, you’ll play a vital role in supporting the local team, which often operates with limited resources.
Children at this project range in age from as young as 2 months to around 12 years old. The project runs from 5:30am to 10pm, but volunteers typically work from 8:30am to 12:30pm. However, you are more than welcome to stay and continue volunteering in the afternoons. Morning sessions tend to be busier and focus on structured activities and class-based learning, while afternoons are quieter and involve more recreational and playtime.
The project is sustained through the dedication of its staff and community donations. Many of the children come from homes facing social and financial challenges, so your creativity and proactive approach can make a big difference. Volunteers are encouraged to engage with all the children by planning fun, interactive activities.
Centro Infantil Pequeños Angelitos - Located just outside central Coronado, Centro Infantil Pequeños Angelitos provides childcare and early education for children aged 3 to 12. The centre supports families from a range of social and economic backgrounds, with government assistance helping to make childcare accessible to the local community. Children take part in a structured daily routine that combines educational activities, creative play, and outdoor recreation, providing a safe, nurturing environment where they can learn, build confidence, and develop important social skills. The project is easily reached by public bus, taxi, or Uber from the volunteer accommodation.
You will play an active role in supporting the children throughout their day. This may include assisting with educational activities, helping to organise arts and crafts, reading stories, supervising games, and encouraging learning through creative play. You will also help create a warm, welcoming environment by supporting meal times, keeping activity areas organised, and providing positive encouragement to the children. Working alongside the dedicated local staff, you will help ensure every child feels supported, engaged, and cared for while gaining valuable insight into community-based childcare in Costa Rica.
Intermediate Spanish skills are recommended for our childcare projects, as most of the staff speak only Spanish and use very limited English. Your ability to communicate in Spanish will help you better support the children and the team.
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Childcare Day
As a childcare volunteer in Costa Rica, your role will involve assisting with daily tasks such as cleaning and helping to feed the children. You’ll also engage the children through singing songs, teaching essential hygiene and life skills, and organising fun games and outdoor activities. Your energy and enthusiasm will be key to creating a positive and supportive environment for the children.
Your work schedule will be flexible and coordinated between you, the centre, and the volunteer coordinator in Coronado. Most volunteers work either from 7:30am to 12:30pm or 1pm to 5pm, Monday to Friday. On average, you should plan to dedicate 3-5 hours each day to your childcare volunteer placement.
Learn More...
Your role as a childcare volunteer in Costa Rica offers a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children while immersing yourself in the vibrant local community.
Other Things to Consider Working With Children in Costa Rica
Return Airport Transfer - Your return airport transfer is not included in your Program Fee. However, our local team can assist in arranging onward transfers to the airport or another destination. Making arrangements once you’re in-country allows for greater flexibility, especially as plans can often change, and some participants may share similar flight schedules. Alternatively, ridesharing apps are a common and cost-effective option. Many participants travel during their final days and may not return to the airport directly from the accommodation. Costs will vary depending on your chosen method of transport and destination, and they can often be split if you’re travelling with fellow trip participants.
Spanish Requirements – Like all our volunteer in Costa Rica programs, we recommend having a reasonable level of Spanish before your trip. While there are no mandatory language requirements, and beginners are welcome, being able to communicate in Spanish will significantly enhance your experience. English is not widely spoken in Costa Rica, so the program should also be seen as a language immersion opportunity. Limited Spanish skills may lead to communication challenges and a more frustrating experience.
To support this, all PMGY participants begin their program with the learn Spanish in Costa Rica week, which includes 20 group lessons per week and optional cultural activities in the afternoons. If you are the only participant at your level, you may instead receive 15 private lessons per week. Each lesson lasts 50 minutes.
Before arrival, you’ll receive a Spanish proficiency form via email to assess your level, enabling the team to prepare your classes. This initial week aims to improve your Spanish before starting your volunteer placement. Many participants in Costa Rica join solely for the Language Immersion Program, making it an integral part of the overall cultural experience.
PMGY also offers Online Spanish Lessons before your trip, providing one-on-one classes with trained Spanish teachers via Zoom. Once in Costa Rica, you can arrange additional lessons with the local team. However, volunteer feedback suggests that balancing language lessons with your Costa Rica volunteer programs can be tiring. For this reason, we recommend only extending your Language Immersion Program if you wish to focus on improving your Spanish skills.
Placement Settings – PMGY does not offer volunteer opportunities in orphanages in any location. Studies have shown that volunteering in orphanages can inadvertently support an industry that separates children from their families, putting them at risk of neglect and abuse. As a result, PMGY does not work with or support such institutions.
Instead, our programs focus on alternative childcare opportunities where children come to and from the placement daily. Our local teams partner with safe, responsible, and vetted projects that do not provide residential care. These settings allow volunteers to offer meaningful support to local staff while ensuring the safety and well-being of the children.
Weekend Trip Opportunities
Just a few hours from San José, Manuel Antonio is a tropical escape where rainforest meets white-sand beaches. Home to the world-famous Manuel Antonio National Park, this destination is perfect for spotting monkeys, sloths, toucans, and iguanas, or simply relaxing by the ocean.
Getting There
• 3.5–5 hours by bus
• Tickets cost around 10–12 GBP each way
Where to Stay
• Hostel Dorm – 12–15 GBP per night
• Hostel Private – 27–35 GBP per night
• Hotel – 45–55 GBP per night
• Cabina/Airbnb – 40–55 GBP per night
Things to Do
• Guided tour of Manuel Antonio National Park – 50 GBP
• Canopy Zip Lining – 70–100 GBP
• Jungle Night Tour – 40–50 GBP
• Relax on the Beach – 5–10 GBP
On Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, Puerto Viejo is a chilled-out beach town with a mix of Afro-Caribbean culture, reggae music, colourful street art, and delicious food. Known for its surf breaks and jungle backdrop, it’s a favourite among backpackers, surfers, and nature lovers. The best way to get around is by bicycle, with a smooth coastal road connecting stunning beaches and wildlife spots.
Getting There
• 5–6 hours by bus
• Tickets cost around 10–15 GBP each way
Where to Stay
• Hostel Dorm – 12–15 GBP per night
• Hostel Private – 27–35 GBP per night
• Hotel – 45–55 GBP per night
• Cabina/Airbnb – 40–55 GBP per night
Things to Do
• Snorkelling Trips – 50–70 GBP
• Surfing Lessons – 30–40 GBP
• Bicycle Rental – 6–8 GBP per day
• Salsa Classes – Up to 5 GBP
• Explore National Parks – 5–20 GBP (unguided)
La Fortuna is the adventure capital of northern Costa Rica, set at the base of the famous Arenal Volcano. The area is filled with natural wonders, from rainforest hikes and waterfalls to thermal hot springs. It’s the perfect spot for thrill-seekers and nature lovers, offering activities like ziplining, rafting, and exploring the iconic volcano. The town itself is small and welcoming, with plenty of restaurants, shops, and tour options to choose from.
Getting There
• 3–4 hours by bus
• Tickets cost around 10–15 GBP each way
Where to Stay
• Hostel Dorm – 12–15 GBP per night
• Hostel Private – 27–35 GBP per night
• Hotel – 45–55 GBP per night
• Cabina/Airbnb – 40–55 GBP per night
Things to Do
• Arenal Volcano Hike – 15–20 GBP
• Hanging Bridges – 35–45 GBP
• La Fortuna Waterfall – 20–25 GBP
• Hot Springs – 25–70 GBP (depending on standard)
• Full Adventure Day Trip – 80–120 GBP
Monteverde is one of Costa Rica’s most famous natural treasures, known for its misty highland forests and incredible biodiversity. Nestled in the Tilarán Mountains, this cloud forest is home to hundreds of bird species including the rare resplendent quetzal, as well as sloths, monkeys, orchids, and endless plant life. It’s a cooler escape from the coast and perfect for hiking, wildlife spotting, and learning about Costa Rica’s unique ecosystems. Early mornings and night tours are especially magical here.
Getting There
• 4–5 hours by bus
• Tickets cost around 10–12 GBP each way
Where to Stay
• Hostel Dorm – 12–15 GBP per night
• Hostel Private – 27–35 GBP per night
• Hotel – 45–55 GBP per night
• Cabina/Airbnb – 40–55 GBP per night
Things to Do
• Guided Cloud Forest Hike – 20–30 GBP
• Hanging Bridges – 35–45 GBP
• Night Wildlife Tour – 30–35 GBP
• Coffee & Chocolate Tour – 45–50 GBP
• Biodiversity Exhibits & Gardens – 20–30 GBP each
Jacó is one of Costa Rica’s most accessible and lively beach towns, located just a couple of hours from San José. Known for its surf-friendly waves and buzzing nightlife, it’s a favourite for surfers, backpackers, and travellers looking for a fun mix of adventure and relaxation. The town has a long sandy beach, plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops, and is a great base for both water sports and nearby day trips.
Getting There
• 2–3 hours by bus
• Tickets cost around 5–7 GBP each way
Where to Stay
• Hostel Dorm – 12–15 GBP per night
• Hostel Private – 27–35 GBP per night
• Hotel – 45–55 GBP per night
Things to Do
• Surf Lessons – 40–50 GBP
• Ziplining – 60–80 GBP
• Horseback Riding – 60–80 GBP
• Chocolate Tour – 40–50 GBP
• Crocodile Safari – 25–35 GBP
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- Two women enjoy a joyful bike ride along a sunny, tropical street filled with cafes, greenery, and colourful outdoor scenes.
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- A diverse group marvels at the lush rainforest canopy during a Costa Rica adventure.
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- A tranquil Costa Rican sunset with a silhouette, lush greenery, and tall palm trees, perfect for peaceful reflection.
Accommodation - Shared & Comfort Options Available
Volunteer House
All volunteers in Costa Rica stay at our Volunteer House in Coronado, a suburb of San José. The house is well located, with cafés, restaurants, convenience stores, ATMs and pubs within walking distance. You will live alongside other volunteers, creating a friendly and social environment with plenty of opportunities to spend time together, while still having space to relax.
The house has a communal lounge, fully equipped kitchens, fridge space for chilled items and an onsite laundry room with washers and dryers. Free WiFi is available throughout the property. The residence is located within a secure compound with 24 hour security and a digital keypad at the entrance.
Both shared and private room options are available within the same Volunteer House, so everyone enjoys the same communal facilities and social experience. All rooms have single beds, cupboard space and bed linen provided. Each room also has secure storage available, and we recommend bringing a small padlock for your valuables.
🛏️ Shared Option - Standard Offering (Recommended for 18-25 Year Olds)
Our Shared Option is a great choice for volunteers who want a social experience during their time in Costa Rica. Rooms are same sex and accommodate up to 3 volunteers, making it easy to get to know other participants and settle into life at the Volunteer House. Bathroom facilities are shared with other volunteers and include showers and western style toilets. This is our standard accommodation option and is particularly popular with younger volunteers who enjoy sharing their experience with others and making the most of the communal atmosphere at the house.
🔒 Comfort Option - Private Room Upgrade 150 USD100 GBP120 EUR210 AUD170 CAD Per Week (Recommended for 26+ Year Olds)
For volunteers who prefer more personal space, our Comfort Option provides a private room within the same Volunteer House. This gives you additional privacy and your own space to unwind, while still allowing you to enjoy the social side of living alongside other volunteers.
Comfort rooms can accommodate a solo traveller or up to 2 participants travelling together, with 2 single beds. Solo travellers have the room to themselves with their own key and sole access. Bathroom facilities include a shower and western style toilet and are shared.
Wi-Fi
Yes (Free)
People Per Room
Up To 3 (Shared) or 1 (Comfort)
Single Sex Rooms
Yes
Western Bathroom Facilities
Yes
Airport Transfer
45 Minutes
Nearest ATM & Shops
15 Minute Walk
Meals
During your volunteer trip to Costa Rica, meals are not included. However, local supermarkets are within walking distance of the Volunteer House, making it easy to shop for your groceries. On weekends, there’s a popular farmers market just a few blocks away, where you can purchase fresh produce and experience local culture. Many volunteers choose to prepare meals together, sharing ingredients and minimising their weekly food budget. Of course, if you prefer to prepare meals individually or eat out more often, you should budget accordingly.
Traditional Costa Rican meals from local restaurants tend to be more affordable than international options. Eating out in Coronado is generally cheaper than in San José, so plan your dining choices accordingly. Alternatively, you can use services like Uber Eats to have food delivered directly to the Volunteer House.
Program Location
FAQ's
PMGY welcomes childcare volunteers in Costa Rica of all nationalities, religions, and backgrounds. The minimum age to join the program is 18, with no upper age limit. Additionally, all volunteers need to have good English, although it does not need to be your first language. While it’s not necessary to speak the local dialect, you’ll find that a basic to intermediate understanding of Spanish will go a long way in building connections and enriching your experience.
As a Costa Rica childcare volunteer, you must provide a clean criminal background check before volunteering with us abroad. This ensures the safety and well-being of the children and communities we work with. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept anyone with previous criminal convictions.
In general, no formal experience or qualifications are required to join the childcare projects — just lots of energy, enthusiasm, and a proactive approach to preparation!
Volunteering overseas can be a rewarding yet demanding experience. It can be physically and mentally challenging, so all participants must be fit in both areas. If you have any medical or mental health conditions that may affect your participation, these must be disclosed to us during your online application. This ensures we can best support you and assess the program’s suitability.
If you have any concerns or queries regarding your eligibility or suitability for the Costa Rica childcare program, we recommend that you contact us before committing to the program. Our team is always happy to assist you in making an informed decision and ensuring a positive and enriching experience for all involved.
For your volunteer trip to Costa Rica, you should book your flights to Juan Santamaría International Airport (airport code SJO) to arrive on the designated Sunday start date. This is the official arrival day for the program, ensuring a smooth and well-organised beginning to your experience as a Costa Rica childcare volunteer.
Upon your arrival, you will be warmly greeted at the airport by a member of our local team or an appointed driver. They will be easy to spot, holding a sign with your name to ensure you feel welcomed from the moment you land. From there, they will escort you to your accommodation, where you will have the rest of the day to relax, settle in, and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
The program officially ends on the Saturday of your final week. This means you will need to vacate the accommodation on this day to make way for new participants arriving for their own life-changing experiences. Our local team will be available to assist with arranging transport to the airport or providing guidance for any onward travel plans you may have.
Whether you’re just arriving or bidding farewell to Costa Rica, our team is here to ensure your transition is as seamless and stress-free as possible. Your time as a Costa Rica childcare volunteer will leave you with unforgettable memories, meaningful connections, and a lasting impact on the communities you’ve helped.
You can apply anytime for most of our programs, including the Costa Rica childcare volunteer program. However, we highly recommend applying soon to secure your spot. Some of our programs have limited capacity, and spaces can fill quickly, especially during our peak travel period from June to August. If you plan to join us during this time, applying early is even more important to avoid disappointment!
When you embark on this experience, you must be 100% committed to joining the program. To apply, locate the “Apply Now” button on the individual project page. This will guide you step-by-step through our online Application Process. We’ve made it as straightforward and user-friendly as possible so that you can easily secure your place.
Based on feedback from previous Costa Rica childcare volunteers, we’ve found that 4-6 weeks is the ideal amount of time to fully immerse yourself in the experience of volunteering in Costa Rica. This duration provides ample opportunity to integrate into the local community, build meaningful relationships, and contribute to your chosen project. Over this time, you’ll be able to make a lasting positive impact while having plenty of time to explore Costa Rica’s incredible sights and culture during your weekends.
Many of our Costa Rica childcare volunteers who joined us for just 2 weeks often expressed that their time was too short. They leave wishing they had stayed longer to further engage with the projects they’ve grown passionate about. If your schedule allows, we highly encourage you to consider a longer stay to make the most of this life-changing experience!
While our programs are available for longer durations, volunteers can initially sign up for a maximum of 12 weeks in each destination. In the past, we’ve found that some volunteers commit to extended placements but later wish to adjust their plans for independent travel or to join another program. Please note, however, that Program Fees are non-refundable once committed. If you arrive and find yourself loving the program (as many do!), you are more than welcome to extend your placement. Extensions are subject to availability at the time of your request, but our team will do their best to accommodate your desire to stay longer and continue making an impact.
For those considering an even more adventurous journey, we recommend exploring our Encounter Programs. These unique opportunities allow you to experience 2-4 week stays across 3-10 destinations, offering a perfect balance of travel, cultural immersion, and volunteering.
At PMGY, we understand the importance of safety, especially for first-time travellers, and we work diligently to ensure that all our programs, including those in Costa Rica, provide a secure and enriching experience. Our programs are carefully designed to balance structure and independence perfectly. This means you’ll enjoy a guided and supportive environment while free to explore and immerse yourself in local culture. For further details, please refer to our Safety & Wellbeing page.
Volunteer safety in each destination is a top priority and is monitored regularly. A member of our International Team has thoroughly inspected every PMGY program to ensure it meets our high standards. We also stay current with advice published by the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office. Through constant communication with our local teams, we ensure that our volunteers are always placed in secure and stable regions.
Our International Team has personally visited and participated in every program we offer, paying close attention to every detail—from the living conditions and local neighbourhoods to the food you’ll enjoy. These meticulous checks ensure that all aspects of your stay meet our rigorous standards. Additionally, our local teams are experienced professionals with years of experience hosting international volunteers. They serve as PMGY’s trusted representatives, offering 24/7 support to all volunteers throughout their stay. To further enhance your safety, PMGY provides a 24-hour international emergency line accessible at all times. In-country staff also maintain connections with local medical professionals, ensuring that immediate assistance is available should it be required during your placement as a Costa Rica childcare volunteer.
Before you embark on your journey, you’ll receive a comprehensive Volunteer Handbook, which covers key topics such as health, safety, visas, and dress codes. If you have additional or specific questions, our dedicated support team is available 24/7 to assist. Furthermore, on a monthly basis, PMGY hosts an Introductory Webinar and a Safety Webinar. These interactive sessions offer invaluable information about our projects and practical tips for staying safe abroad.
When you arrive in-country, you’ll participate in a detailed orientation session. This introduction will cover the general volunteer program and your specific project, including essential safety advice tailored to your destination. During this session, you’ll also have the opportunity to purchase a local SIM card — a step we highly recommend to ensure you remain contactable at all times. Additionally, you’ll receive a comprehensive list of essential contact numbers to keep on hand during your stay.
While no travel experience can ever be guaranteed 100% trouble-free, PMGY has taken every precaution to ensure that your time as a Costa Rica childcare volunteer is as safe and enjoyable as possible. We strongly suggest following the local team’s guidance and advice to ensure your safety throughout your journey.
