Jugando Aprendo, in Spanish meaning "learning by playing", is a safe space, created and led by current domestic laborers and former child domestic workers, who, through mentorship, inspire children currently trapped in domestic work in Peru.
Thousands of children live in shantytowns on the outskirts of Lima, Peru. Due to the degrading poverty of these areas, most of them are forced to work in domestic service. Children as young as 9 suffer burns while cooking and are exposed to toxic chemicals when cleaning. As a consequence of their work, many perform poorly in school and have no time to play and make friends.Not only are they forced to give up their childhood, they are born into a life of second-class citizenship.
Children need a stable environment and healthy role models to thrive. Jugando Aprendo will provide continued training for former child domestic workers who will inspire children under their care. Children will have access to books, maps and games to improve their school performance. The Jugando Aprendo center will have a water supply system to give children access to drinkable and running water. A psychologist at the center will help ensure the mental and emotional well being of children.
This project will give children living in conditions of poverty more equal opportunities to achieve a brighter future for themselves and for future generations. As long as children are forced to choose work over education, they are stripped of the chance to build a better life for themselves and their families. Jugando Aprendo aims at breaking the cycle of poverty passing from one generation to the next, by ensuring a sustainable and significant improvement of life conditions and expectations.
