Are you eager to share your time, energy, and enthusiasm with children around the world? As a childcare volunteer in Bali, you’ll make a meaningful difference in the Tabanan community. You’ll help with daily care, organise creative activities like crafts, and teach English through fun songs and music. This is a fantastic opportunity to volunteer with children aged 1-8, giving them a strong foundation before they begin their formal education.
Childcare Volunteer Program Highlights
- Support The UN’s Sustainable Development Goal No. 4 Through Education
- Build Childcare Skills With A Secure & Social Experience Ideal For First Timers
- Support Local Children Through Creative Learning, Play & Social Activities
- Explore More Of Bali With Organised Weekend Trips To Gili Islands & Ubud
- Experience Balinese Culture Through Temple Visits, Markets & Local Life
Background to the Childcare Program
In Bali, many families, particularly those working in the demanding farming and fishing industries, struggle to afford high-quality care or education for their children. As a childcare volunteer in Bali, you can make a real difference by supporting these families and childcare centres. By working alongside local staff, we can ensure that children get the attention and care they truly deserve.
With the rise in tourism, those who can speak English have more opportunities than those who cannot. As a result, providing education at an early stage gives children the chance to improve their future prospects and the well-being of their families.
Studies suggest that the preschool years are the most crucial in a child’s development, making it the perfect time to introduce a foreign language. This is why international volunteers, like you, are so valuable. As a childcare volunteer in Bali, you’ll help teach children essential English skills, such as simple vocabulary, colours, shapes, and animals. If you're looking for inspiration for your gap year ideas, our volunteer programs in Bali offer amazing opportunities to make a real impact.
Childcare Volunteer Placement Examples
Akasa Kindergarten – Our local team has established a morning kindergarten program in Tabanan to provide underprivileged children with free early years education and structured activities. The team is dedicated to this initiative, and with the support of PMGY volunteers, they can continue to strengthen and expand the Akasa Kindergarten over time. The project welcomes up to 55 children aged 4 to 6 who bring plenty of enthusiasm to their daily learning.
Out of all our childcare placements, this one is the most structured. If you are torn between teaching and childcare, this is the ideal place for you. The children are still very young but are eager to learn. They love picking up the basics of English through songs and play, and they truly value the presence of our volunteers.
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Mutiara Ibu Daycare – Founded by a local Balinese couple, Mutiara Ibu Daycare offers affordable childcare, accommodating up to 40 children each day. In the mornings, volunteers play an important role in introducing structure through fun activities and games. The children’s ages can vary, so it’s a great opportunity for volunteers to get creative when teaching English, especially for the older children, helping them prepare for school.
In the afternoons, your work as a volunteer in Bali may involve spending time with children ranging from 6 months to 13 years old. You’ll often assist during mealtimes, encouraging picky eaters and helping clean up after the messier ones! Volunteers also lend a hand during bath times, but assistance is needed across all areas of the centre. As a childcare volunteer in Bali, you may also be asked to engage with the older children or help staff with daily chores.
Immaculatta Daycare – Located just 10 minutes from the Volunteer House, Immaculatta Daycare was founded by a Christian Church to support working families by providing childcare and basic English lessons for older children. As a volunteer, you will help keep the children entertained by leading exciting games and activities. While the staff handles the children’s basic needs, you’ll be the one to bring fun and energy to the centre! The morning session lasts around 3 hours, after which the children have a nap, and you can prepare for the next group of volunteers in the afternoon.
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Childcare Day
As a childcare volunteer in Bali, your main role is to share your time, enthusiasm, and skills to encourage and care for the children. By introducing them to English, you’ll be giving them an early opportunity for social interaction and educational growth.
Your volunteer abroad program runs from Monday to Thursday, with Friday being optional but encouraged. Morning sessions typically run from 8am to 12pm, and afternoon sessions from 1pm to 4pm. You’ll usually be scheduled for one of these sessions, but you’re welcome to pick up extra hours and join other sessions if you wish. Transportation to the project is provided via bemo, which usually takes no more than 20 minutes.
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This childcare volunteer abroad program is both hugely rewarding and enjoyable. As a volunteer in Bali, you’ll be encouraged to structure the day to ensure a balance between fun play activities and a controlled routine with basic learning activities.
Lesson planning is key. Get creative with a variety of enrichment activities to foster positive social development. You can use songs, music, puzzles, interactive props, and educational resources to keep the children engaged. Local coordinators will also be there to support you throughout your time at the project.
Balinese children are a joy to teach and work with. Their enthusiasm for learning will certainly bring a smile to your face! Working with this age group isn’t as structured as teaching older children, so their language skills can be developed through play and interaction. Just a few words or phrases will give them a solid foundation for learning English in the future. If you volunteer with children in Bali, you’ll need to prepare activities accordingly.
We find that the more volunteers prepare for their day, the more rewarding the experience will be for both themselves and the children. Depending on the number of childcare volunteers in Bali at the time, children will be divided into smaller groups. You’ll also have local coordinators and teachers to assist you.
Your role isn’t just about teaching. Volunteers are encouraged to get involved in other areas like arts and crafts, physical education, and helping local staff with day-to-day tasks. What activities you choose when you volunteer in Bali is entirely up to you.
Resources and inspiration are available at the office, and there may be materials and props at the childcare centres. The local team also runs weekly lesson planning sessions, offering volunteers the chance to share and discuss ideas, as well as plan for the week ahead.
PMGY’s volunteer work in Bali is all about making learning fun and enjoyable. Be creative – there are countless ways to educate the children while making a real impact. Our childcare program is empowering and rewarding, allowing you to make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. Balinese people are warm and friendly, and you’ll be welcomed into their community with open arms. The children will be excited to get to know you!
As a childcare volunteer in Bali, you should have a genuine passion for working with children. While the children are incredibly friendly and energetic, it can sometimes feel overwhelming, so it’s important to stay positive and immerse yourself fully in this once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Given the heat and high temperatures in Bali, we limit the schedule to one longer session per day. You’re welcome to ask for extra hours, but we find that the childcare sessions tend to be more energy-intensive than other projects, and the heat can be intense. For the best experience, we believe it’s important for volunteers to keep their energy levels high and maintain a positive intensity throughout each session.
Other Things to Consider Working With Children in Bali
Return Airport Transfer – Your return airport transfer is not included in your Program Fee. However, our local team can assist in arranging onward transfers to the airport or another destination. Making arrangements once you’re in-country allows for greater flexibility, especially as plans can often change, and some participants may share similar flight schedules. Alternatively, ridesharing apps are a common and cost-effective option. Many participants travel during their final days and may not return to the airport directly from the accommodation. Costs will vary depending on your chosen method of transport and destination, and they can often be split if you’re travelling with fellow trip participants.
Major Holiday Destination - Bali is our most popular tourist destination, and many volunteers take the opportunity to travel around Indonesia during their trip. Being in a more affluent and tourist-friendly location can sometimes make it harder to feel as deeply engaged with the project, compared to more developing countries like Ghana, Tanzania, or India, where the need for international volunteers is more immediate. As a result, we recommend that you consider a shorter volunteering period to balance your travel experience, or if the project work is particularly important to you, think about volunteering in a location with a higher need for support.
Resources - For the childcare volunteer in Bali, resources can be limited. To get the most out of your time volunteering with children in Bali, we recommend bringing your own materials to the project each day. Preparing ahead will ensure you’re fully equipped and ready to make a real impact during your time volunteering with children in Bali.
Placement Settings - PMGY does not offer volunteer opportunities in orphanages. Studies have shown that orphanages can contribute to the separation of children from their families, which can increase the risk of neglect and abuse. As a result, we do not support orphanages within our volunteer network.
Instead, we focus on offering safe, responsible, and vetted childcare volunteer placements where children attend the project each day and return home in the evening. These programs are carefully selected and provide valuable support to local staff, ensuring you can make a meaningful difference as a childcare volunteer in Bali.
Weekend Trip Opportunities
Discover Bali’s cultural heart with a three-day, two-night trip to Ubud, surrounded by rice terraces, temples, waterfalls, and hot springs. The trip includes transport, accommodation, meals, entrance fees, and a PMGY guide.
Getting There
• 2 hours by private bus
Where to Stay
• Accommodation included in trip price
Things to Do
• Temple Visits – Included
• Jatiluwih Rice Terraces – Included
• Mount Batur Sunrise Hike – Included
• Lakeside Hot Springs – Included
• Monkey Forest and Waterfalls – Included
Spend three days on Gili Trawangan, a tropical island with no cars or motorbikes, perfect for snorkelling, cycling along white sand beaches, and enjoying sunsets. The trip includes transfers, accommodation, meals, a snorkelling tour, bicycle hire, and a PMGY guide.
Getting There
• 4 hours by private bus and public boat
Where to Stay
• Accommodation included in trip price
Things to Do
• Snorkelling Trip – Included
• Bicycle Hire – Included
• Mini Golf – Included
• Sunset Tour – Included
Head north to Lovina for black sand beaches, a relaxed atmosphere, and a magical sunrise dolphin tour. The journey includes scenic stops at temples, waterfalls, and rice fields, making it an ideal weekend getaway.
Getting There
• 3.5 hours by private taxi (about 30 GBP shared with up to 6 people)
Where to Stay
• Hostel Dorm – 5–15 GBP per night
• Guesthouse – 30–50 GBP per night
• Resort Hotel – 50+ GBP per night
Things to Do
• Rural Temple Visits – Up to 10 GBP
• Waterfalls – Up to 10 GBP
• Sunrise Dolphin Trip – 15 GBP
Located at Bali’s southern tip, Uluwatu is known for its stunning cliffs, beaches, surf spots, and the famous Uluwatu Temple and Kecak Fire Dance. Its proximity to the airport makes it a popular final stop for many visitors.
Getting There
• 3 hours by private taxi (about 20 GBP shared with up to 6 people)
Where to Stay
• Hostel Dorm – 10–25 GBP per night
• Guesthouse – 40–60 GBP per night
• Resort Hotel – 70+ GBP per night
Things to Do
• Surf or Paddleboard Hire – 15 GBP
• Beach Clubs – 20–50 GBP
• Uluwatu Temple and Kecak Fire Dance – 14 GBP
• Hatch Sunday Market – Free
Just 30 minutes by boat from Bali, the Nusa Islands offer spectacular beaches, snorkelling, and dramatic viewpoints. Nusa Lembongan is the ideal base, with easy access to Nusa Penida and Nusa Cenigan for day trips and manta ray encounters.
Getting There
• 3 hours by private taxi (9 GBP shared) and public boat (15 GBP return)
Where to Stay
• Hostel Dorm – 5–15 GBP per night
• Guesthouse – 30–50 GBP per night
• Resort Hotel – 50+ GBP per night
Things to Do
• Snorkelling Trip – 20 GBP
• Nusa Penida Day Trip with Guide – 30 GBP
• Paddleboard Hire – 7 GBP
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- Young woman enjoying sunrise mountain views, smiling during a peaceful outdoor adventure in nature.
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- Two women laugh with a playful monkey on their shoulder in a lush tropical setting.
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- Two women enjoy tropical beach drinks and coconuts during golden hour, soaking up the sun and relaxing seaside vibes.
Accommodation - Shared & Comfort Options Available
Volunteer House
During your time on the Bali volunteer program, you will stay in one of our Volunteer Houses in Tabanan. This traditional town provides an authentic experience of everyday Balinese life, with local restaurants, convenience stores and ATMs just a short walk away. Away from Bali’s busier tourist areas, Tabanan provides a great base for experiencing local culture while living alongside PMGY volunteers from around the world.
The Volunteer Houses have communal spaces where you can relax, spend time with other volunteers or prepare lesson plans if you are teaching English. Free Wi-Fi and fridge space are available, while bedrooms have air conditioning, bed linen and mosquito nets or curtains where required. Lockers are available for storing personal belongings, with a small deposit payable for a locker key on arrival.
Our local team lives close to the volunteer accommodation, allowing volunteers to enjoy their own living space while having support nearby. This setup also provides opportunities to learn more about Balinese culture and connect with the local community during your stay.
Some volunteer projects are within walking distance of the Volunteer House, while others are further away. For placements that are not walkable, PMGY provides daily transport by minivan or private car, with the cost included in your Program Fee.
During busier periods, we operate multiple Volunteer Houses within Tabanan. Each provides the same core facilities, although there may be some variation in location, room layout, amenities and capacity. Due to the popularity of our Bali programs, specific Volunteer Houses cannot be requested, although we can accommodate friends and small groups together where possible.
🛏️ Shared Option - Standard Offering (Recommended for 18-25 Year Olds)
Our Shared Option offers a social living experience and is a great way to get to know other volunteers during your time in Bali. Rooms are same sex and accommodate up to 8 volunteers in bunk beds, creating a friendly communal atmosphere within the Volunteer House.
Bathroom facilities are shared with other volunteers and include showers and western style toilets. Shower water is typically cold, which is common locally and can be refreshing in Bali’s warm tropical climate.
🔒 Comfort Option - Private Room Upgrade 150 USD100 GBP120 EUR210 AUD170 CAD Per Week (Recommended for 26+ Year Olds)
For volunteers who prefer more personal space, our Comfort Option provides a private bedroom while still allowing you to enjoy the social experience of living alongside other PMGY volunteers. Comfort rooms can accommodate a solo traveller or up to 2 participants travelling together, typically with a double bed.
Bathroom arrangements depend on the individual room and availability. Some Comfort rooms have their own private ensuite bathroom, while others have access to shared bathroom facilities. Bathrooms include showers and western style toilets, with shower water typically cold. The main benefit of the Comfort Option is the privacy of your bedroom, with a private ensuite bathroom an additional benefit where available.
Wi-Fi
Yes (Free)
People Per Room
Up To 8 (Shared) or 1 (Comfort)
Single Sex Rooms
Yes
Western Bathroom Facilities
Yes
Airport Transfer
1 Hour 30 Minutes
Nearest ATM & Shops
5 Minute Walk
Meals
During your volunteer trip to Bali, you will enjoy three freshly prepared meals each day. Meals typically feature traditional Indonesian cuisine, with delicious dishes such as fried rice and noodles. Rice is a staple in Balinese cuisine, and chicken is the primary meat used. Vegetarian options are always available.
Tabanan offers a wide range of restaurants and local warungs (authentic food stalls) serving traditional Balinese cuisine, which is often vegetarian and packed with flavour. Occasionally, a western-style meal may be provided at the Volunteer House, and there are restaurants offering western dishes within a 20-minute walk.
* Our team will do their best to cater for dietary requirements, but this cannot always be guaranteed. Volunteers may need to purchase additional ingredients at their own expense. Please note any dietary requirements in your application and re-iterate them to the local team on arrival. For major concerns, contact the PMGY International Team before confirming your place on the program.
Here’s an example of the meals you can expect:
Breakfast
Toast, Cakes, Fruit, Tea/Coffee
Lunch
Mixed Rice, Vegetables, Curries, Salad
Dinner
Fried Rice, Fried Chicken, Noodles, Spaghetti
Program Location
FAQ's
PMGY welcomes childcare volunteers in Bali of all nationalities, religions, and backgrounds. The minimum age to join the program is 17, with no upper age limit. Additionally, all volunteers need to have good English, although it does not need to be your first language. While it’s not necessary to speak the local dialect, you’ll find that learning a few local words during your time in Bali will go a long way in building connections and enriching your experience.
As a Bali childcare volunteer, you must provide a clean criminal background check before volunteering with us abroad. This ensures the safety and well-being of the children and communities we work with. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept anyone with previous criminal convictions.
In general, no formal experience or qualifications are required to join the childcare projects — just lots of energy, enthusiasm, and a proactive approach to preparation!
Volunteering overseas can be a rewarding yet demanding experience. It can be physically and mentally challenging, so all participants must be fit in both areas. If you have any medical or mental health conditions that may affect your participation, these must be disclosed to us during your online application. This ensures we can best support you and assess the program’s suitability.
If you have any concerns or queries regarding your eligibility or suitability for the Bali childcare program, we recommend that you contact us before committing to the program. Our team is always happy to assist you in making an informed decision and ensuring a positive and enriching experience for all involved.
For your volunteer trip to Bali, you should book your flights to I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, also known as Denpasar International Airport (airport code DPS) to arrive on the designated Sunday start date. This is the official arrival day for the program, ensuring a smooth and well-organised beginning to your experience as a Bali childcare volunteer.
Please check out our Chaperoned Flight options for group flights from London Heathrow on selected start dates.
Upon your arrival, you will be warmly greeted at the airport by a member of our local team or an appointed driver. They will be easy to spot, holding a sign with your name to ensure you feel welcomed from the moment you land. From there, they will escort you to your accommodation, where you will have the rest of the day to relax, settle in, and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
The program officially ends on the Saturday of your final week. This means you will need to vacate the accommodation on this day to make way for new participants arriving for their own life-changing experiences. Our local team will be available to assist with arranging transport to the airport or providing guidance for any onward travel plans you may have.
Whether you’re just arriving or bidding farewell to Bali, our team is here to ensure your transition is as seamless and stress-free as possible. Your time as a Bali childcare volunteer will leave you with unforgettable memories, meaningful connections, and a lasting impact on the communities you’ve helped.
You can apply anytime for most of our programs, including the Bali childcare volunteer program. However, we highly recommend applying soon to secure your spot. Some of our programs have limited capacity, and spaces can fill quickly, especially during our peak travel period from June to August. If you plan to join us during this time, applying early is even more important to avoid disappointment!
When you embark on this experience, you must be 100% committed to joining the program. To apply, locate the “Apply Now” button on the individual project page. This will guide you step-by-step through our online Application Process. We’ve made it as straightforward and user-friendly as possible so that you can easily secure your place.
Based on feedback from previous Bali childcare volunteers, we’ve found that 4-6 weeks is the ideal amount of time to fully immerse yourself in the experience of volunteering in Bali. This duration provides ample opportunity to integrate into the local community, build meaningful relationships, and contribute to your chosen project. Over this time, you’ll be able to make a lasting positive impact while having plenty of time to explore Bali’s incredible sights and culture during your weekends.
Many of our Bali childcare volunteers who joined us for just 2 weeks often expressed that their time was too short. They leave wishing they had stayed longer to further engage with the projects they’ve grown passionate about. If your schedule allows, we highly encourage you to consider a longer stay to make the most of this life-changing experience!
While our programs are available for longer durations, volunteers can initially sign up for a maximum of 12 weeks in each destination. In the past, we’ve found that some volunteers commit to extended placements but later wish to adjust their plans for independent travel or to join another program. Please note, however, that Program Fees are non-refundable once committed. If you arrive and find yourself loving the program (as many do!), you are more than welcome to extend your placement. Extensions are subject to availability at the time of your request, but our team will do their best to accommodate your desire to stay longer and continue making an impact.
For those considering an even more adventurous journey, we recommend exploring our Encounter Programs. These unique opportunities allow you to experience 2-4 week stays across 3-10 destinations, offering a perfect balance of travel, cultural immersion, and volunteering.
At PMGY, we understand the importance of safety, especially for first-time travellers, and we work diligently to ensure that all our programs, including those in Bali, provide a secure and enriching experience. Our programs are carefully designed to balance structure and independence perfectly. This means you’ll enjoy a guided and supportive environment while free to explore and immerse yourself in local culture. For further details, please refer to our Safety & Wellbeing page.
Volunteer safety in each destination is a top priority and is monitored regularly. A member of our International Team has thoroughly inspected every PMGY program to ensure it meets our high standards. We also stay current with advice published by the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office. Through constant communication with our local teams, we ensure that our volunteers are always placed in secure and stable regions.
Our International Team has personally visited and participated in every program we offer, paying close attention to every detail—from the living conditions and local neighbourhoods to the food you’ll enjoy. These meticulous checks ensure that all aspects of your stay meet our rigorous standards. Additionally, our local teams are experienced professionals with years of experience hosting international volunteers. They serve as PMGY’s trusted representatives, offering 24/7 support to all volunteers throughout their stay. To further enhance your safety, PMGY provides a 24-hour international emergency line accessible at all times. In-country staff also maintain connections with local medical professionals, ensuring that immediate assistance is available should it be required during your placement as a Bali childcare volunteer.
Before you embark on your journey, you’ll receive a comprehensive Volunteer Handbook, which covers key topics such as health, safety, visas, and dress codes. If you have additional or specific questions, our dedicated support team is available 24/7 to assist. Furthermore, on a monthly basis, PMGY hosts an Introductory Webinar and a Safety Webinar. These interactive sessions offer invaluable information about our projects and practical tips for staying safe abroad.
When you arrive in-country, you’ll participate in a detailed orientation session. This introduction will cover the general volunteer program and your specific project, including essential safety advice tailored to your destination. During this session, you’ll also have the opportunity to purchase a local SIM card — a step we highly recommend to ensure you remain contactable at all times. Additionally, you’ll receive a comprehensive list of essential contact numbers to keep on hand during your stay.
While no travel experience can ever be guaranteed 100% trouble-free, PMGY has taken every precaution to ensure that your time as a Bali childcare volunteer is as safe and enjoyable as possible. We strongly suggest following the local team’s guidance and advice to ensure your safety throughout your journey.
