As a childcare volunteer in India, you'll have the amazing chance to bring joy and brighten the days of children from underprivileged backgrounds. Your mornings will kick off with dancing and singing alongside these delightful youngsters, setting an upbeat and positive tone for the day ahead. As a role model, you'll support their educational journey while organising fun activities, games, and basic lessons to keep them engaged and learning. By making a meaningful difference in local communities, you'll help create a brighter future for these children. Your role will include assisting with general childcare and daily routines at your placement, where your dedication to fostering a nurturing and supportive environment will help these young minds flourish.
Childcare Volunteer Program Highlights
- Support The UN’s Sustainable Development Goal No. 4 Through Education
- Build Childcare Skills With An Immersive Authentic Experience In Faridabad
- Support Children In Slum Communities Through Learning, Play & Activities
- Explore India’s Golden Triangle With Weekend Trips To The Taj Mahal & Jaipur
- Experience Indian Culture Through Yoga, Bollywood Movies & Pottery Classes
Background to the Childcare Program
In India, like many other developing countries, hundreds of thousands of children lack opportunities to thrive, particularly in their early years. Many families face financial challenges that prevent them from providing adequate early childhood education. As a result, children often miss out on the crucial development they deserve. Those with disabilities face even greater barriers both within and outside the education system.
Volunteers with PMGY in India work to support children’s centres in the Faridabad community. These centres are established by PMGY to assist children from nearby slum areas. Volunteers not only offer a friendly face to brighten a child’s day but also take an active role in leading engaging activities to make each day at the centres fun and productive. To succeed, volunteers need plenty of energy, enthusiasm, and creativity to maximise their contributions. Volunteering with children is a deeply rewarding experience and is open to people from all walks of life.
Each day on this childcare volunteer abroad program in India is unique, and the impact you make depends on how much effort and creativity you bring. It’s a good idea to arrive prepared with ideas for activities to dive into the project right away. As a childcare volunteer in India, you’ll have the chance to think creatively and make a meaningful difference in the lives of young children within the local community.
Childcare Volunteer Placement Examples
Sector 10 Program – Established by the PMGY local team, this project provides essential support for children from the Sector 10 community. This is the area where the local team is based, and they’ve been passionate about creating a community childcare and education program to give back to their immediate neighbourhood.
Around 50 children attend the Sector 10 program each day, many of whom come from nearby slum communities. The children are divided into two groups: younger children and slightly older children. As a childcare volunteer in India, your role is to work with the younger children, where activities focus less on formal education. Instead, you’ll engage in arts and crafts, playground games, hygiene education, and early years development. For those who are more interested in teaching, working with the older children involves teaching basic English, Maths, and other subjects.
Often, older children attending the project are responsible for their younger siblings, as they don’t have access to childcare at home. These children bring their younger siblings with them to the project. India childcare volunteers play a vital role in supporting these children as well as the others at the project.
The program typically runs in the morning for around three hours. The day starts with the national anthem, nursery rhymes, and some light exercise with the whole group. For the next couple of hours, childcare volunteers will focus on the younger children while teaching volunteers assist the older children. The group then comes together for the final hour, which includes Bollywood dancing and snack time. A local teacher and coordinator are on hand to guide volunteers with their tasks and activities.
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While there are local staff members at the project, much of the additional support comes from PMGY participants. Daily activities include storytelling, physical exercises, life skills lessons, singing, and games. Volunteers may also get involved in teaching English. The activities help promote interaction between the children, encouraging the development of social skills they may not otherwise fully develop. Volunteers with relevant experience may assist with physiotherapy and speech therapy sessions, working under the guidance of the local staff. Each day, volunteers bring toys and educational materials to the community centre.
Participants in this community development volunteer abroad program bring their energy and enthusiasm, stimulating and supporting the children. The project is very engaging, and volunteers play key roles in teaching English, feeding the children, and assisting with motor skills activities.
Although this volunteer work in India can be challenging, feedback from participants suggests it is one of the most rewarding volunteer opportunities. The connections international volunteers build with the children are unique and special to each person. As funding and volunteer support grow, we can continue to enhance our support for both the communities and the centre.
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Childcare Day
As a childcare volunteer in India, you’ll play a vital role in coordinating activities and providing care, attention, and support to underprivileged children. The volunteer project typically runs for three hours each day, Monday to Friday. Most volunteering abroad activities take place in the morning, although this may vary depending on the project’s needs.
Your role as a childcare volunteer can vary day-to-day. Some days, you might assist the children with homework or help them with school projects. On other days, you could be organising activities, leading games in the park, or teaching basic hygiene lessons. To make the most of your time, you’ll need to be proactive, identifying the children’s needs and planning suitable activities. While challenges may arise, they are always balanced by the rewards of making a real difference, so you can expect your time as a volunteer to be both meaningful and enjoyable.
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As a volunteer overseas in India, you’re welcome to get involved in other projects for additional volunteer work. Alternatively, you can use your free time to plan activities or explore Delhi and its surrounding areas.
PMGY’s India volunteer program includes a private transport network that will take you to and from your project each day. You’ll travel by tuk-tuk or minivan, and this service is included in your Program Fee.
Other Things to Consider Working With Children in India
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.
Project Flexibility – As a volunteer in India, you might have the opportunity to join other India volunteer programs. However, this depends on the availability of space to avoid overcrowding, which could limit opportunities for meaningful involvement. Priority is always given to those specifically signed up for a particular program in India, so while flexibility is possible, it’s not guaranteed.
Resources – At the childcare project in India, resources can be limited. Volunteers are encouraged to bring materials each day to enhance their productivity and engagement. Preparing well in advance will help you make the most of your experience as a childcare volunteer in India.
Placement Settings – PMGY does not offer volunteer opportunities in orphanages in any location. Studies have shown that volunteering in orphanages can inadvertently support an industry that separates children from their families, putting them at risk of neglect and abuse. As a result, PMGY does not work with or support such institutions.
Instead, our programs focus on alternative childcare opportunities where children come to and from the placement daily. Our local teams partner with safe, responsible, and vetted projects that do not provide residential care. These settings allow volunteers to offer meaningful support to local staff while ensuring the safety and well-being of the children.
Weekend Trip Opportunities
Explore India’s cultural treasures with a weekend trip to Jaipur and Agra, home to iconic landmarks like the Taj Mahal, Amber Fort, and Agra Fort. Wander through the Pink City, enjoy sunset views at Jal Mahal, and soak in the rich history and architecture of Northern India.
Getting There
• 6 hours by private taxi or train
Where to Stay
• Accommodation included within suggested budget
Things to Do
• Amber Fort – 5 GBP
• Light & Sound Show at Amber Fort – 2 GBP
• Taj Mahal – 10 GBP
• Exploring the Pink City – Included
• Agra Fort – 6 GBP
A weekend in Rishikesh offers the perfect balance of spirituality and adventure. Explore iconic bridges, riverside temples, cafés, and the Beatles Ashram, then unwind with yoga or meditation before enjoying white water rafting or ziplining on day two.
Getting There
• 7 hours by private taxi
Where to Stay
• Accommodation included within suggested budget
Things to Do
• River Rafting – 6–15 GBP depending on length
• Ziplining – 15 GBP
Escape the bustle of Delhi with a peaceful trip to Dharamshala. Home of the Dalai Lama, this hill station offers breathtaking Himalayan scenery, fresh mountain air, Tibetan culture, and opportunities to hike, relax, and explore.
Getting There
• 10 hours by coach
Where to Stay
• Accommodation included within suggested budget
Things to Do
• Triund Trek – 12 GBP
• Bhagsu Waterfall – Free
• Tibetan Museum – 1 GBP
• Cooking Lesson – 5 GBP
Pushkar is the perfect weekend getaway for spiritual charm and desert beauty. Explore temples, bazaars, and Pushkar Lake, or take in stunning views from Savitri Temple at sunrise. Camel rides and desert dinners complete the experience.
Getting There
• 7 hours by train
Where to Stay
• Accommodation included within suggested budget
Things to Do
• Camel Safari – 7 GBP
• Desert Safari and Dinner – 13 GBP
Varanasi, one of the world’s oldest cities, offers a unique cultural and spiritual experience. Enjoy sunrise boat rides on the Ganges, explore ancient temples, wander through narrow alleys, and witness the powerful Ganga Aarti at night.
Getting There
• 10 hours by public train
Where to Stay
• Accommodation included within suggested budget
Things to Do
• Morning Boat Ride – 2.5 GBP
• Private Boat Ride – 15 GBP
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- Three women explore a historic monument’s steps, capturing friendship and curiosity in warm natural light.
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- Friends enjoying a joyful moment in front of the stunning Taj Mahal during a serene visit.
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- A young woman captures the stunning architecture of an Indian heritage gateway at a historic site.
Accommodation - Shared & Comfort Options Available
Volunteer House
On the India volunteer program, you will stay in our Volunteer House in the centre of Faridabad, a satellite city around 15 miles south of Delhi. Restaurants, convenience stores and ATMs are just a short tuk tuk ride away.
The Volunteer House is spacious and comfortable, with volunteers from around the world staying together and sharing the experience. There are communal areas for relaxing and socialising, as well as fridge space for keeping food and drinks cool. Handwashing facilities are available for clothes, with a laundry service also available for a small fee.
Free Wi-Fi is available at the Volunteer House, although the connection can occasionally be intermittent. Volunteers can also purchase a local SIM card for use with an unlocked mobile phone. Power cuts can occur from time to time in India and typically last no more than a couple of hours.
Both shared and private room options are available within the Volunteer House. All bedrooms have fans and bed linen is provided. We recommend bringing a small padlock for personal belongings, while valuables can also be stored securely with the local team.
Most volunteer projects are not within walking distance of the Volunteer House, so the local team provides daily transport to and from your placement by tuk tuk or minivan. The cost of this transport is included in your Program Fee. The Volunteer House is located on the same campus as the host family who coordinate the projects, giving volunteers regular opportunities to interact with the local team and experience local hospitality.
🛏️ Shared Option - Standard Offering (Recommended for 18-25 Year Olds)
Our Shared Option provides a social way to experience life at the Volunteer House. Bedrooms are arranged dorm style and separated by gender, with up to 8 volunteers sharing a room. Living alongside other participants makes it easy to get to know the group and settle into the volunteer community.
Bathrooms are shared with other volunteers, with ample bathroom facilities available throughout the Volunteer House. These include western style toilets and showers. Hot water is not available. This is our standard accommodation option and is particularly popular with younger volunteers who enjoy the communal experience of living with other participants.
🔒 Comfort Option - Private Room Upgrade 150 USD100 GBP120 EUR210 AUD170 CAD Per Week (Recommended for 26+ Year Olds)
For volunteers who prefer additional privacy, our Comfort Option provides a private bedroom within the Volunteer House. This gives you your own space to relax while still enjoying the communal areas and social experience of living alongside other volunteers.
Comfort rooms can accommodate a solo traveller or up to 2 participants travelling together and contain 2 single beds. Bathrooms are generally shared, with ample bathroom facilities containing western style toilets and showers available throughout the Volunteer House. Hot water is not available. Depending on participant numbers and availability, we may occasionally be able to allocate a bathroom for sole use, but this is not guaranteed and should be considered 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
Nearest ATM & Shops
10 Minute Walk
Meals
During your volunteer trip to India, you will be served three freshly prepared meals daily. Most dishes are traditional Indian vegetarian cuisine, made with a variety of flavours while ensuring they are not too spicy. Occasionally, the local team may prepare western options such as pasta or vegetarian burgers. Filtered water is available at the Volunteer House free of charge.
* 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 is an example of the meals you can expect:
Breakfast
Cereal, Milk, Bread, Jams, Fruit, Juice
Lunch
Mixed Rice, Vegetables, Curries, Chapati, Soup
Dinner
Vegetarian Burgers, Pizza, Momo
Program Location
FAQ's
PMGY welcomes childcare volunteers in India 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 India will go a long way in building connections and enriching your experience.
As a India 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 India 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 India, you should book your flights to Indira Gandhi International Airport – Delhi (airport code DEL) 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 India 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 Sunday 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 India, our team is here to ensure your transition is as seamless and stress-free as possible. Your time as a India 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 India 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 India 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 India. 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 India’s incredible sights and culture during your weekends.
Many of our India 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 India, 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 India 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 India 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.
