Childcare Volunteering
Program

INTRODUCTION

The Childcare Volunteer Program at Extent Community Smiles is dedicated to nurturing, protecting, and supporting young children during their early stages of development. Through this program, volunteers contribute to creating a safe, loving, and stimulating environment where children can grow, learn, and thrive.

Program Overview

This program operates through our childcare centers, led by Emmanuel Children Center, located in Arusha. The centers provide care, early childhood education, nutrition support, and emotional guidance to young children, especially those from vulnerable backgrounds. Volunteers work alongside local caregivers and teachers to support daily childcare activities and promote holistic child development.

What to Expect from the Program

Volunteers can expect an engaging and rewarding experience that includes:

  • Daily interaction with young children in a childcare setting

  • Participation in learning, play, and creative activities

  • Cultural exchange with local staff and community members

  • A supportive and child-friendly environment

  • Opportunities to positively influence children’s early development

Volunteer Responsibilities

Volunteers may assist with:

  • Supporting children in daily routines such as learning, play, and meals

  • Assisting teachers and caregivers during classroom activities

  • Organizing games, storytelling, songs, and creative sessions

  • Providing emotional support, care, and positive guidance

  • Helping maintain a clean, safe, and nurturing environment

  • Supporting special activities during school holiday programs

Volunteer Impact

Volunteers play a vital role in shaping children’s early experiences by:

  • Providing individual attention and encouragement

  • Supporting emotional, social, and cognitive development

  • Creating joyful and safe learning experiences

  • Inspiring confidence, curiosity, and positive behavior in children

Program Impact

The Childcare Program contributes to long-term community development by:

  • Improving early childhood education and care standards

  • Supporting working parents and guardians

  • Promoting child protection and well-being

  • Laying a strong foundation for children’s future education and success

Skills Required

No professional qualifications are required; however, the following qualities are highly valued:

  • Love and patience for working with children

  • Good communication and teamwork skills

  • Creativity and enthusiasm

  • Responsibility and reliability

  • Background in education, childcare, psychology, or social work is an added advantage

Project info:

Accomodations

Extent Community Smiles provides safe, comfortable, and welcoming accommodation for Childcare Program volunteers during their stay in Arusha. Our volunteer houses are well-organized and located in a peaceful environment that allows volunteers to rest and prepare for their daily activities with children.

We offer full-board accommodation, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, prepared to meet daily nutritional needs. The housing facilities are equipped with all essential amenities required for a comfortable stay, such as furnished rooms, clean water, electricity, sanitation facilities, and secure surroundings.

The accommodation is conveniently located within Arusha, providing easy access to the childcare centers, including Emmanuel Children Center. Our goal is to ensure that volunteers feel safe, supported, and at home while dedicating their time and energy to caring for and nurturing young children.

Available Dates

The Childcare Volunteer Program is open throughout the year whenever the centers are operating. There are special peak periods during school holidays, particularly in June and December, when additional volunteer support is highly welcomed.