Volunteering Abroad with Children: Ethical, Rewarding Programs for Teens

Volunteering abroad with children is an unforgettable way for young people to make a difference. If you’re 16 or older and eager to teach English abroad, mentor kids, or support community projects, there are countless opportunities. 

Studies show that youth volunteering can boost confidence, helping young people “clarify and strengthen a sense of competence and self-efficacy” while connecting them with others. This guide will explain the rewards of volunteering with children and how to do it responsibly and ethically. 

We will also highlight top ethical volunteer programs for teens that prioritize child safety.

Why Volunteer Abroad with Children?

Volunteering with kids overseas offers:

• Heartwarming Connections: Seeing a child’s smile when you teach or play brings deep emotional fulfilment.
• Cultural Exchange: You share songs, games, and language lessons while learning local customs in return.
• Skill Development: Leading activities builds communication, leadership, and teaching abilities—great for personal growth and resumes.
• Lasting Impact: Even brief projects—like helping a child read or improving a play area—leave a positive mark on a community.

Responsible Volunteering: Ethics and Child Protection

While volunteering with children can be life-changing, it’s crucial to do it ethically and responsibly.

Here are some key considerations:

• Avoid Orphanage Tourism: Steer clear of programs that allow unsupervised short-term volunteering in orphanages. Experts warn that “visiting and volunteering in orphanages”, though well-intentioned, can fuel a harmful industry that separates children from families and exposes them to abuse. Reputable providers like IVHQ have responded to these concerns – “IVHQ no longer supports orphanage volunteering” and instead offers more sustainable ways to help children. 
• Choose Vetted, Reputable Programs: Do your research and select organizations with a proven track record. The providers we feature below are known for being reputable – many have won awards or passed rigorous quality standards. 
• Child Protection Policies: Any ethical volunteer program will have strict child protection measures in place. For instance, African Impact requires all volunteers to pass a background check and has a clear Child Protection Policy. Projects Abroad also notes that all programs are fully vetted and safety-audited. 
• Be supportive, not a savior: Join existing initiatives, work within your training, remain humble, learn from locals, and prioritize children’s well-being.

Popular Destinations for Volunteering with Children

Youth volunteers today have opportunities to work with children all over the globe.

Here are a few top regions and countries to consider:

• Costa Rica: Costa Rica is extremely popular for volunteers, as it offers a safe environment, friendly culture, and lots of community-driven projects. Volunteers can teach English or support daycare centers in the midst of rainforest and beach settings. 
• Peru: Peru has long been a favorite for volunteering with children. Projects Abroad notes Peru as one of their top destinations for childcare programs. On weekends you can explore Machu Picchu and Peru’s rich history. 
• South Africa: In Africa, South Africa is a major hub for volunteer projects – from township childcare and after-school clubs in Cape Town to youth sports development in the Limpopo region.  
• Ghana is another hugely popular destination known for its welcoming communities; volunteers often work in schools or daycare centers here, and enjoy the vibrant West African culture.  
• Thailand: Thailand has become a trending destination for volunteering abroad. Many programs involve teaching English to children in rural villages or caring for kids at community centers, all while volunteers soak up Thai culture (and food!).  
• Nepal is also highly regarded – volunteering in Nepal might mean helping out at a children’s home in Kathmandu or running educational activities for kids in villages, with the Himalayas as your backdrop. 
• Other Destinations: There are plenty more great places! Bali (Indonesia), Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and Fiji are also common choices for teens volunteering with children.  
• In Europe, options like Romania or Portugal exist too – often focused on summer camps or supporting youth in disadvantaged communities. 

Wherever you go, be sure to research what each program entails and how it supports local children and families.

Top Volunteer Providers for Teens (16+) Working with Children

One of the most important steps is choosing the right organization.

Below, we highlight some of the best volunteer abroad providers that offer child-focused programs open to teens 16 and up. 

International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ)

Since 2007, IVHQ has placed over 130,000 volunteers on impactful projects in dozens of countries.

Volunteers as young as 16 can join many of IVHQ’s programs with parental consent. IVHQ has a comprehensive Child Protection Policy to ensure no child is exposed to abuse or exploitation.

With IVHQ, you could find yourself teaching English abroad in a classroom in Thailand, acting as a big brother or sister in an after-school program in South Korea, or assisting caregivers at a daycare in Argentina. 

If you want variety and a trusted name, IVHQ is a great first step into volunteering abroad.

GoEco

GoEco is a respected volunteer travel company known for combining meaningful projects with eco-tourism. They offer several programs that welcome teens. GoEco carefully vets their projects for ethical standards. 

For young volunteers interested in working with children, GoEco has several great options in various countries. For example, GoEco runs a kindergarten volunteer project in Sri Lanka where you can help young children learn basic English in a fun, play-based setting. 

Another popular choice if you’re 18+ is the Nepal Buddhist Monastery program in the Everest region. Spend five weeks teaching English and math to novice monks, immersing in Buddhist life, practicing cultural exchange, and exploring Nepal’s stunning landscapes on weekends. 

GoEco’s team ensures everything is safe, educational, and fun for young volunteers. They have won awards for their commitment to responsible volunteering. 

Maximo Nivel

Maximo Nivel is an intercultural organization based in Latin America that offers some excellent volunteer programs in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru. Volunteers 17 and up (16 with parental consent) are welcome on many of their projects. 

Maximo Nivel’s child-focused programs let you work directly with kids in the community – for instance, you might volunteer in a daycare or community center, assist local teachers in a rural school, or help run an English class for children. Maximo Nivel partners with schools and after-school programs (and yes, in the past, orphanages – though like others, they emphasize support for under-resourced kids in general).

Projects Abroad

Projects Abroad is a widely recognized volunteer organization with over 130,000 past volunteers and decades of experience. They offer an array of child-centered volunteer projects around the globe, and they are known for top-notch support and ethical standards. 

For teens, Projects Abroad has special High School Specials – short-term programs specifically designed for volunteers ages 15 to 18, with added supervision. For example, you could join a two-week group in Ghana or Peru on a project to support local childcare centers, combined with cultural activities. 

Projects Abroad focuses on community-based care over orphanages. Volunteers are usually placed in daycares, schools, community centers, or summer camps where help is genuinely needed.

From teaching children in Cambodia to caring for kids in Tanzania, Projects Abroad has many options, all underpinned by strong ethics. 

African Impact

Established in 2004 in South Africa, African Impact has a stellar reputation as a responsible, sustainable volunteer travel organization. All projects have a minimum age of 16, so they are very accustomed to hosting teen volunteers. 

With African Impact, you could volunteer at a girl’s empowerment project in Zambia, or assist in organizing sports and educational games for primary schoolers. 

Child protection is taken very seriously: African Impact has its own Child Protection Policy and mandates criminal background checks for all volunteers working with kids. Volunteers are supervised by experienced staff on the ground, who ensure you’re making a real impact while staying safe. If you’re looking for meaningful work with children in Africa and a chance to be part of an award-winning team, African Impact is a top pick.

Involvement Volunteers International (IVI)

Involvement Volunteers International, or IVI, is a non-profit volunteer organization that has been sending volunteers overseas since way back in 1989. They have engaged over 25,000 volunteers across 112 projects in 23 countries to date, which speaks to their experience. 

Most IVI programs accept teens 16 and up. 

For those interested in working with children, IVI offers some fantastic options. For example, you can join a kindergarten volunteering program in Fiji, assisting local teachers with arts, games, and basic English lessons for kids ages 4 to 7. 

Another IVI project suited to teens is teaching English in Ecuador: volunteers help out in schools, daycares, and community centers, leading English activities for children and teens. 

Volunteering Solutions (VolSol)

Volunteering Solutions, often called VolSol, is another popular organization that offers lots of teen-friendly volunteer opportunities. Founded in 2007, VolSol has placed nearly 17,000 volunteers on over 150 projects in 27 countries. 

When it comes to volunteering with children, one standout option is VolSol’s summer volunteer program in Thailand, which is a mix of volunteering and adventure. Volunteers spend time working at a rural childcare center – playing games with children and helping renovate the facility to create a better learning environment. After contributing to the community, they get to experience Thailand’s culture and sites. 

Another VolSol opportunity is in Nepal, where teens can join a special program that combines language learning, sightseeing, and volunteering at a children’s home or school. 

Global Vision International (GVI)

Global Vision International (GVI) is an award-winning volunteer and internship organization known for its high standards and impactful programs. For teens, GVI has dedicated under-18 programs and group trips that are extremely well organized. 

GVI’s child-focused placements often overlap with community development or education. You might assist local teachers in Fiji, support early childhood programs in South Africa, or help renovate a community center used by children. 

GVI provides 360-degree support: pre-departure training, in-field mentors, and even an alumni network for continued growth. If you are serious about volunteering under excellent guidance, GVI is an excellent choice to ensure a responsible experience.

Start Your Journey Responsibly

Volunteering abroad with children as a teen is an unforgettable adventure. You’ll inspire young learners, experience new cultures, and gain skills and empathy. Choosing responsible, ethical programs ensures your impact is positive and avoids voluntourism pitfalls. 

Whether teaching a kindergartner the alphabet or playing soccer in Accra, you’ll grow personally and help children thrive. It won’t always be easy, but stepping out of your comfort zone is worth it. With humility, preparation, and an open heart, you can embark on a life-changing journey that benefits both you and the kids you serve. 

Safe travels and happy volunteering!