As a childcare volunteer in Vietnam with PMGY, you’ll play a key role in bringing joy and support to the lives of young children, making a meaningful difference in their daily routines. Working alongside our local team, you’ll be part of initiatives supporting a variety of organisations in and around Hanoi. International volunteers provide essential care and assistance to children and young adults in care centres and kindergartens, helping to create a positive and nurturing environment.
Childcare Volunteer Program Highlights
- Support The UN’s Sustainable Development Goal No. 4 Through Education
- Build Childcare Skills Across Diverse Placements With A Dedicated Local Team
- Assist Children Through Learning, Play, Engagement & Development Activities
- Explore More Of Vietnam With Weekend Trips To Sapa, Ha Long Bay & Ninh Binh
- Experience Vietnamese Culture Through Hanoi’s Food, Markets & Old Quarter
Background to the Childcare Program
As a participant on the childcare volunteer abroad program in Vietnam, you will support one of two project types during your time. Volunteers work with a variety of facilities in and around Hanoi, including childcare centres and organisations that care for children and young adults with disabilities.
In Vietnam, as in many developing countries, disabled individuals often lack access to the support they need. Nearly seven million people in Vietnam (approximately 8% of the population) live with disabilities. We partner with projects in Hanoi that offer critical care and assistance to these groups. Volunteers collaborate with local staff to enhance their efforts, improving the opportunities and quality of care provided to the children and young adults.
Volunteering with disabled individuals can be both challenging and deeply rewarding. These projects call for creativity, emotional resilience, and resourcefulness to make a meaningful impact. Through your dedication, you will not only change their lives but also gain an invaluable perspective that will leave a lasting impact on your own. This is a chance to use your skills to truly support others.
In the childcare centres we support, the goal of a volunteer work in Vietnam is to assist with daily caregiving tasks while nurturing the children’s English language abilities, confidence, and communication skills. Volunteers may take on roles such as teaching basic English, organising fun activities, and helping with practical tasks like mealtimes.
Childcare Volunteer Placement Examples
Friendship Village - Friendship Village is a living, health, and educational centre supporting children and adults affected by Agent Orange, as well as providing healthcare to war veterans. Founded in 1992 by American veteran George Mizo, the centre aims to repair the damage caused by Agent Orange during the America-Vietnam War. The complex includes two living quarters, two classroom buildings, a health centre, and a vegetable garden where much of the food is grown on-site.
The centre is home to 120 residents aged 4-40, hailing from across Vietnam. Residents face a range of disabilities, including Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, physical deformities, and severe mental disabilities. Volunteers contribute by collaborating with teaching staff to develop ideas and techniques, structuring lessons, evaluating students, and updating profiles. Volunteers may also teach English to staff, teachers, and residents.
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Early Intervention: For children aged 2-5, this program focuses on basic skills like communication and social interaction to help integrate them into society.
Primary/Elementary Program: For children aged 6-12, focusing on reading, writing, and basic maths.
School Function Program: For children aged 6-12 who cannot study a standard curriculum.
Living Skills Program: For individuals aged 10-16 to develop essential life skills for the future.
Volunteers begin in an observational role to understand the project and the children’s abilities. Gradually, they take on a more hands-on role, assisting with and running class activities. Volunteers are encouraged to bring fresh ideas and perspectives to the centre. Note: This project requires a minimum commitment of 4 weeks.
Morning Star Centre (Sao Mai) – Founded in 1995, Morning Star is a subsidiary of the Vietnam Relief Association for Children with Disabilities. The centre employs 70 staff to care for approximately 150 children aged 1-25, providing education and training to help them integrate into the community. Children here often have developmental disabilities such as Down Syndrome, Autism, and Cerebral Palsy.
Classes are tailored to the children’s needs, with small groups of around 12-13 children and 2-3 teachers per class. Volunteers assist with basic education, motor skill development, play therapy, and physical education.
The centre also offers vocational and pre-vocational courses for teenagers, preparing them for future opportunities. Students gain work experience through initiatives like the centre’s coffee shop and cooking lessons, helping build confidence and independence. Volunteers with relevant experience may observe one-on-one therapy sessions to provide guidance to staff.
Chich Bong Kindergarten – Chich Bong Kindergarten supports children aged 12 months to 6 years by developing their abilities through arts, languages, and various communication methods. It also runs clubs to nurture children’s hobbies and talents.
Classes typically have 15-20 children. Volunteers help improve the children’s English through songs, dance, and fun educational activities. Creative activities like drawing, painting, and handicrafts are encouraged to boost the children’s confidence and communication skills. A local teacher is present to support volunteers as needed.
Rose Kindergarten – Located in Hanoi’s Bac Tu Liem district, this kindergarten supports children aged 2-6 with early years development. Volunteers assist with art, dance, sports, and music classes, as well as basic reading and writing activities for older children. This helps the children become more confident in their English communication skills.
Classes are split into groups, such as a larger class for 2-3-year-olds and a smaller group for older children. Volunteers may assist with feeding, organising games, and leading arts and crafts activities. Local teachers (two per class) are available to help manage the classroom, and a translator is on-site to bridge any language barriers. Volunteers also have the chance to support extracurricular activities, fostering better relationships with the children and staff.
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Childcare Day
Each of our Vietnam volunteer programs offers unique expectations and responsibilities for international volunteers. Generally, you will be involved in providing daily care, attention, and interaction to those who need it most. Specific roles for each project are outlined under the ‘Project Placement Examples’ section above, but it’s important to note that tasks can vary. While some projects, such as Khanh Tam and Morning Star, may have adequate materials, they often lack sufficient human resources, making the role of volunteers crucial.
As a childcare volunteer in Vietnam, you will typically work around 5 hours per day, though exact schedules depend on the project location. Most often, participants will volunteer abroad 3 hours in the morning and 2 hours in the afternoon, but this may vary depending on the needs of the project.
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Other Things to Consider Working With Children in Bali Vietnam
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.
Resources – At the childcare project in Vietnam, 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 Vietnam.
Project Availability - A childcare volunteer in Vietnam should be aware that we support a variety of projects in and around Hanoi beyond those listed in this overview. This is particularly relevant during the summer months when volunteer numbers are higher. Increased participation allows us to expand our impact across the community and reduce overcrowding at existing sites. During school holidays in Vietnam, there is typically a greater need for community programs and daytime summer classes.
While we strive to accommodate volunteers’ project preferences, this is not always guaranteed. Placement requests can be made in the ‘Special Requirements’ section of your application. Vietnam childcare volunteers should expect to be placed in either a childcare centre or a facility for individuals with special needs. It’s important to note that volunteers may work with both children and young adults depending on the placement.
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
Nestled in Vietnam’s northern highlands, Sapa is a serene mountain town known for its vast rice terraces, cool climate, and rich ethnic diversity. Home to Hmong, Dao, and Tay communities, it offers a unique cultural and natural escape. A weekend here includes guided treks through terraced hills, visits to remote villages, homestay cooking experiences, and evenings by the fire. For an added challenge, hike or take the cable car up Mount Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina.
Getting There
• 6 hours from Hanoi
• Sleeper Bus or Train
Where to Stay
• Homestay Dorm – 5–10 GBP per night
• Guesthouse – 15–25 GBP per night
• Hotel – 30 GBP+ per night
Things to Do
• Guided Trekking – 10–20 GBP
• Fansipan Cable Car – 25 GBP
• Village Visits – Included
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ha Long Bay enchants visitors with its limestone karsts, turquoise waters, and mystical caves. Just a few hours from Hanoi, this natural wonder is best explored on a day or overnight cruise, where you can kayak through hidden lagoons, visit caves like Sung Sot, and relax on deck amid breathtaking scenery. Many cruises include meals, island visits, and sunset activities, perfect for both adventure and relaxation.
Getting There
• 3 hours from Hanoi
• Private Bus or Shared Tour
Where to Stay
• Overnight Cruise – 60–90 GBP per night
• Hotel in Ha Long City – 20–40 GBP per night
Things to Do
• Day Cruise – 35–50 GBP
• Kayaking & Cave Tours – Included
• Swimming – Free
Known as “Ha Long Bay on land,” Ninh Binh is a stunning region of rice fields, limestone cliffs, and peaceful rivers. Take a boat ride through the karst formations of Trang An or Tam Coc, hike to Mua Cave for panoramic views, and explore ancient temples like Hoa Lu and Bich Dong Pagoda. Rent a bicycle to wander through tranquil villages and enjoy the slow rhythm of rural life, a refreshing contrast to Hanoi’s bustle.
Getting There
• 2 hours from Hanoi
• Private Bus or Train
Where to Stay
• Homestay Dorm – 5–10 GBP per night
• Guesthouse – 15–25 GBP per night
• Hotel – 30 GBP+ per night
Things to Do
• Trang An Boat Ride – 8 GBP
• Mua Cave Hike – 3 GBP
• Bicycle Hire – 2 GBP
• Temple Visits – Free
Located on Vietnam’s central coast, Hoi An is a beautifully preserved UNESCO-listed town that charms visitors with lantern-lit streets, riverside cafes, and tailor shops. Once a major trading port, it now offers a relaxed atmosphere, delicious food, and scenic countryside. Explore the Old Town, cruise along the Thu Bon River, and enjoy nearby beaches like An Bang. Most volunteers fly from Hanoi for convenience, maximising their weekend time.
Getting There
• 4 hours total travel time
• Flight & Short Transfer – 40–70 GBP
Where to Stay
• Guesthouse – 10–20 GBP per night
• Hotel – 25–40 GBP per night
Things to Do
• Old Town Entry – 4 GBP
• Lantern Boat Ride – 2 GBP
• Cooking Class – 15 GBP
Just 50km west of Hanoi, Duong Lam is one of Vietnam’s oldest and best-preserved villages, offering an authentic glimpse into rural life. Wander narrow lanes lined with laterite-brick houses, visit ancient temples, and share a traditional meal with locals. A cycling tour through the surrounding countryside is the perfect way to experience this charming and historic destination on a budget.
Getting There
• 1.5 hours from Hanoi
• Private Bus or Taxi
Where to Stay
• Day trip from Hanoi
Things to Do
• Village Entry – 1 GBP
• Biking Tour – 3 GBP
• Traditional Lunch – 3–5 GBP
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- A young woman relaxing on a wooden deck with stunning mountain views and lush greenery in Vietnam.
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- Young women enjoying a vibrant adventure exploring Vietnam’s limestone mountains at sunrise, celebrating friendship amid lush scenery.
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- A family relaxes under a rocky overhang, enjoying stunning mountain views and lush greenery during a peaceful hike in Vietnam.
Accommodation - Shared Option Available
Volunteer House
🛏️ Shared Option - Standard Offering (Recommended for 18-25 Year Olds)
During your time on the Vietnam volunteer program, you will stay in our Volunteer House in a quiet and friendly neighbourhood of Hanoi. The accommodation is around a 45 minute bus journey from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, with restaurants, convenience stores and ATMs within walking distance. Volunteer projects are located across different areas of the city, giving you the opportunity to experience more of Hanoi during your stay.
The Volunteer House provides a comfortable and social base where you will live alongside other international volunteers. Bedrooms are arranged as same sex dormitories and accommodate up to 8 volunteers per room. Rooms have air conditioning and bed linen is provided, with space available for hanging clothes.
Bathroom facilities are shared with other volunteers and include western style toilets and showers.
The house has a spacious communal area where you can relax and spend time with other participants. Free Wi-Fi is available in certain areas of the house, including the main communal space, although the connection can occasionally be intermittent. Volunteers may also wish to purchase a local SIM card for more consistent internet access.
There are 2 washing machines available for volunteers to use free of charge, with detergent available from nearby shops. Alternatively, affordable local laundry services can be found within the neighbourhood. Fridge space is also available for storing food and drinks that need to be kept chilled.
Each volunteer is provided with a locker for storing personal belongings and a house key for convenient access to the accommodation. A member of staff, such as a nanny or local team intern, also stays overnight at the Volunteer House, providing an additional point of contact and support.
Power cuts can occasionally occur in Hanoi and are generally resolved within a couple of hours.
Most volunteer projects are not within walking distance of the Volunteer House, so volunteers usually travel to their placements by public bus. The cost of your bus pass is included in your Program Fee, and the local team will explain your route and transport options during orientation.
Wi-Fi
Yes (Free)
People Per Room
Up To 8 (Shared)
Single Sex Rooms
Yes
Western Bathroom Facilities
Yes
Airport Transfer
45 Minutes
Nearest ATM & Shops
10 Minute Drive
Meals
During your volunteer trip to Vietnam, you will be provided with three meals a day, except on Saturdays when meals are not served. Meals are traditional Vietnamese dishes, with rice being a staple. All meals are freshly cooked and nutritious, with free drinking water available 24/7.
For breakfast, you can expect options like fruit, toast, and tea or coffee. Lunch is usually provided at the project if the travel time prevents volunteers from returning to the Volunteer House. In such cases, the local team will reimburse up to 40,000 VND for meals purchased at nearby cafes. When taken at the Volunteer House, lunch typically includes soup, rice, vegetables, and sometimes meat or fish.
Dinner is served at the Volunteer House in the early evening, often buffet-style, and typically includes a variety of dishes to suit everyone’s tastes. Meals generally consist of pork, fish, beef, or chicken, as well as tofu or egg, vegetables, rice, and soup. On occasion, a western dish will be served, which is always a favourite among volunteers. It’s recommended to eat promptly when meals are ready, as food cools quickly.
If you wish to eat out, there are plenty of local cafes and restaurants in the surrounding area, or you can take a bus or taxi into Hanoi’s Old Quarter for more options.
* 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
Fruit, Toast, Tea/Coffee
Lunch
Soup, Rice, Vegetables, Meat, Fish
Dinner
Pork, Fish, Beef, Tofu, Egg, Vegetables, Rice, Soup
Program Location
FAQ's
PMGY welcomes childcare volunteers in Vietnam of all nationalities, religions, and backgrounds. The minimum age to join the program is 18, 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 Vietnam will go a long way in building connections and enriching your experience.
As a Vietnam 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 Vietnam 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 Vietnam 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 Vietnam, you should book your flights to Noi Bai International Airport – Hanoi (airport code HAN) to arrive on the designated Wednesday start date. This is the official arrival day for the program, ensuring a smooth and well-organised beginning to your experience as a Vietnam 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 Wednesday 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 Vietnam, our team is here to ensure your transition is as seamless and stress-free as possible. Your time as a Vietnam 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 Vietnam 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 Vietnam 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 Vietnam. 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 Vietnam’s incredible sights and culture during your weekends.
Many of our Vietnam 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 Vietnam, 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 Vietnam 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 Vietnam 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.
