CARING FOR INFANTS & CHILDREN

Caring for infants and children who are at-risk or have limited resources can have a lasting impact on a child’s development and is one of the most rewarding placements available for volunteers. The children are delighted to see new and smiling faces, and love the games, songs, and rhymes that volunteers help to organize. Simply holding infants, sharing your affection, and providing individual attention is important to their future well-being.

The staffs appreciate the help with daily routines such as feeding and clothing the children and playing with them. Whether you have a background in childcare or simply enjoy caring for young children, a smile or hug can be a meaningful and long-term contribution. The most important attributes needed for these placements are an open heart and a love of spending time with children. Care placements are a chance for volunteers on a college vacation, gap year or career break to really make a difference to children who would otherwise have little or no mental stimulation in their lives.

Volunteering in a care center, you will be working with children of different ages. You will help with a variety of activities such as art, games and songs, and assist local staff to develop stimulating new ideas to interest young children in learning. Any encouragement you can offer goes a long way towards building a child’s self-esteem and confidence.