Volunteer in Sri Lanka with IVHQ, the world’s leading volunteer travel organization trusted by more than 155000 volunteers since 2007.
Make a meaningful difference supporting early childhood education in the historic city of Kandy, located in Sri Lanka’s central highlands. Known for its lush landscapes, cultural heritage, and strong community spirit, Kandy offers a welcoming environment for volunteers who want to contribute to child development while experiencing authentic Sri Lankan culture.
You will support young children by assisting teachers, supervising daily activities, and providing care and encouragement in local childcare centers. This fully hosted experience allows you to contribute to early learning and wellbeing while immersing yourself in everyday life within Sri Lankan communities.
Your Role and Impact: The primary goal of this project is to strengthen early childhood education and daily care for children from low income families. Many childcare centers in Kandy operate with limited resources and staffing. Volunteers play an important role in supporting teachers, maintaining routines, and creating positive, engaging environments that help children develop socially, emotionally, and academically.
As a Childcare volunteer in Kandy, your duties will be hands on, nurturing, and rewarding:
- Classroom Support: Assisting local teachers with basic lessons, early literacy activities, songs, and simple English exposure.
- Child Supervision: Helping care for children during playtime, meals, and daily routines to ensure they feel safe, supported, and encouraged.
- Creative Activities: Leading arts and crafts, storytelling, music, and interactive games that support cognitive, social, and emotional development.
- Center Assistance: Helping prepare learning materials, organize supplies, and maintain clean, welcoming classrooms.
Volunteers work closely with local teachers, childcare staff, and fellow international volunteers. Local educators provide guidance on classroom routines, cultural expectations, and age appropriate activities, while volunteers bring extra energy, creativity, and individual attention that enhances each child’s experience.
No special equipment is required for this program. All classroom materials and learning resources are provided by the childcare centers. Volunteers may bring small personal items such as stationery, stickers, or flashcards if they wish, but this is optional. Comfortable, modest clothing suitable for working with young children is recommended.
No previous childcare experience is required. Patience, enthusiasm, and a genuine interest in supporting young children are the most important qualities for volunteers on this project.
Program Details and Accommodation: This fully hosted volunteer experience includes accommodation in a volunteer house in Kandy with meals provided each day. Transport to and from your childcare placement is arranged locally. Volunteers gain hands on experience in early childhood education, connect with volunteers from around the world, and spend free time exploring Kandy’s temples, botanical gardens, tea plantations, and surrounding hill country. Available year round, this program offers a supportive and culturally immersive opportunity to contribute to early childhood development in Sri Lanka.
