School Teaching: Lessons Beyond the Classroom
Hey everyone, it's Maria and Victor! Our adventure with Volunt2Thai has been nothing short of amazing. Picture this: over 20 schools in the charming villages of Thailand, and here we are, ready to teach English and have some fun!
The excitement was mutual—students and teachers eagerly awaited our arrival, treating us like VIPs. We were dubbed "Teacher," and the joy on their faces was priceless. Classes were a delightful mix, with kids aged 4 to 12. Despite the age gap, the children were enthusiastic and eager to learn, making every lesson an adventure.
One memorable moment was when the school director captured our time with the kids and shared it in the local news, shining a spotlight on the involvement of Western volunteers. Teachers and directors even provided homemade materials, showing their commitment to making our English classes engaging.
We didn't just stick to English; we explored geography, math, nutrition, and cultural topics. The kids loved our Atlas from Ireland, turning geography lessons into a global adventure.
Food Forest: Cultivating Green Thumbs
Next, we dove into the food forest project. Our mission? Reforest 1.5 hectares with around 100 different species of useful trees and plants. Every day, we watered, mowed, and planted, engaging the kids in sustainable practices.
We also got a front-row seat to the sticky rice harvest, a crucial event for local farmers. Understanding the importance of a successful harvest reinforced our dedication to sustainable agriculture. And let’s not forget the joy of preparing meals with the kids, using locally grown produce like papayas and Thai basil. Imagine making papaya salad and pizzas in the heart of Thailand!
Bread Workshop and Pizza Night: A Slice of Joy
Who knew baking could bring so much joy? At Volunt2Thai, we had a blast in the bread-making sessions, ensuring a fresh supply for everyone. But the highlight? Organizing a spontaneous pizza night for the village kids.
The word spread like wildfire, and soon, we had a delightful crowd of children eagerly awaiting their slice of homemade pizza. It was a culinary adventure that transcended cultural boundaries and brought the community together in the most delicious way.
Music Workshops: Striking a Chord
Volunt2Thai has an incredible music room, and we couldn’t resist diving in. Victor found immense joy teaching piano to Anita, a determined young girl who had started her musical journey with a previous volunteer, Daniela.
Despite Victor's short stay, Anita’s commitment was unwavering. She played every evening, cherishing the opportunity to practice with Victor for even 10-15 minutes. Her enthusiasm and dedication were truly inspiring.
Cultural Activities: Embracing Thai Traditions
Our time at Volunt2Thai wasn't just about volunteering; it was about immersing ourselves in the vibrant local culture. We joined the community in temple celebrations, actively contributing to the preparations.
Buddhism plays a significant role in the villagers' lives, forming the spiritual core of their existence. The temple wasn’t just a place of worship; it was a social hub where people played, cooked, learned, and meditated. We felt like integral members of this close-knit community, gaining a profound understanding of Thai customs and traditions.
