Volunteering with children overseas can be one of the most meaningful and transformative experiences you’ll ever have. But it also comes with serious responsibilities. Before you pack your bags and head off to make a difference, here are the most important things to consider to ensure your impact is ethical, effective, and sustainable.
Child protection and privacy
Children deserve protection, especially in volunteer settings. That’s why the safety and well-being of children must always be the top priority. Reputable organizations require volunteers to adhere to strict child protection and safeguarding policies, including background checks, professional or academic references, and comprehensive codes of conduct.
Volunteers are expected to report any suspected cases of child abuse immediately, either to the organization or to a designated local NGO specializing in child protection. Never take children out of placements alone or without explicit permission from supervisors and project staff. Never post photos of children without consent from the organization or guardians.
Avoid personal gifts or singling out children for special attention. And make sure to follow the “two-adult” rule: never be alone with a child in closed spaces. This is crucial for both the child’s safety and your own protection.
Understand legal and ethical considerations
Before you decide to volunteer with children overseas, you should understand both legal and ethical considerations. Volunteering with children isn’t just about good intentions; it’s also about doing no harm. Be aware of the difference between ethical volunteering and voluntourism.
Only work with organizations that are legally registered and have clear agreements covering health, safety, and communication protocols.
Be aware of international and local laws regarding child welfare, especially if you are involved in placements or court cases that cross borders. Sometimes, permissions from foreign authorities or embassies are required for child placements or visits.
Understand immigration and visa requirements for both yourself and the children or families you may be working with, as these can impact the feasibility and legality of certain activities.
Do your homework on the organization
Not all volunteer organizations are created equal. Before signing up, look for transparency about how your time and fees are used. Ask if they partner with local educators or authorities. And always read reviews from past volunteers to see if the project has measurable outcomes.
Try to choose projects that focus on sustainable, community-based care rather than orphanage volunteering, which is increasingly discouraged by child welfare experts.
Support placements that empower families and communities, such as daycare centers, schools, or support groups for parents and children.
Be prepared for culture shock
Working with children in another country means adapting to different norms, values, and expectations. Familiarize yourself with the local culture, customs, and any unique safety or health risks children may face in the destination country. For example, some countries may have regular natural disaster drills or different approaches to personal safety.
Prepare for culture shock, both for yourself and the children. Children may express their adjustment difficulties through behavioral changes such as withdrawal, mood swings, or a desire to return home.
Always be honest and supportive when communicating with children about changes, timelines, and what to expect. Young children, in particular, may not fully understand concepts like time, distance, or the permanence of moves.
Teach practical safety measures
Teach children basic safety rules, such as staying close to trusted adults, recognizing safe meeting points, and knowing whom to approach for help if separated. Equip children with emergency tools, such as ID bracelets with contact and medical information, especially if they have allergies or medical conditions.
Role-play common scenarios (e.g., getting lost, being approached by strangers) to help children practice appropriate responses before and during your time abroad.
Personal and professional development
Be prepared to participate in ongoing training, workshops, and feedback sessions to ensure your work remains effective and safe. Volunteering with children abroad can build valuable skills in communication, leadership, planning, and teamwork, and can significantly impact your future career path.
Build relationships, not dependency
The purpose of volunteering is to empower local communities. That’s why you should focus on building the capacity of local teachers and caregivers. Encourage self-sufficiency rather than creating reliance on outside help.
It’s also important to know that you should stay in touch with the organization, not necessarily the children, to avoid creating emotional confusion.
You’re there to learn, not save
When entering a new country to work with children, it’s easy to fall into the trap of the “savior mindset,” the idea that you’re there to fix or rescue. But that approach can unintentionally disrespect local communities, create dependency, or even harm the children you aim to help.
Instead, approach your role with humility, curiosity, and a desire to learn, support, and collaborate. The right mindset is crucial when going abroad to work with children because it will help you build relationships, support meaningful work, and grow alongside others.
True impact begins when you recognize that you’re the guest, and your greatest contribution is showing up with empathy, respect, and humility.
Before you set off to your volunteering work, learn about the country and the community’s history, strengths, challenges, and current needs. Understand the impact of colonialism, economic inequality, and foreign aid in the region.
Conclusion
Volunteering with children abroad is more than a travel experience; it’s a commitment to ethical service, cultural respect, and sustainable development. With preparation, awareness, and an open heart, you can truly make a lasting, positive impact, both for the children you meet and for yourself.
