I always wanted to help people and children around the world, to contribute in their lives, and make a difference….
GoEco > Africa > South Africa > Early Childhood Development & Infant Care
Join a meaningful early childhood development program set on a farm within a Big Five Game Reserve, just an hour from Johannesburg. Volunteers contribute to two key initiatives: supporting local daycare centers and caring for infants at the Baby Safe House. Through structured activities, you will help children develop essential motor skills, engage in creative play, and help improve learning environments. This project also offers a hands-on training center for caregivers, ensuring sustainable impact within the local community.
Program Highlights:
Arrival Day, (Thursday – Saturday): Upon arrival at O.R. Tambo International Airport, we will transfer you to Lebo’s Backpackers Lodge & Guesthouse in Soweto, one of South Africa’s most vibrant townships. Spend your first two nights exploring the rich history and culture of the area on guided walking or bicycle tours. Enjoy traditional South African cuisine, local music, and an authentic introduction to community life before heading to the Big Five Game Reserve to begin your volunteer experience.
Monday: Travel to the farm, settle into accommodations, meet fellow volunteers, and receive a project briefing.
Tuesday-Friday: Mornings focus on daycare center activities, assisting children with movement skills, play, and classroom preparation. Afternoons include supporting the Baby Safe House by feeding, changing, and playing with infants, as well as community projects.
Remaining Weeks: Follow a similar schedule of daycare and Baby Safe House activities, with weekends free for exploration or rest.
What’s Included
What’s not Included
This project is based in a Big Five Game Reserve, just over an hour from Johannesburg. The reserve offers a unique combination of conservation and community engagement, making it an inspiring setting for volunteer work. Johannesburg, South Africa’s largest city, is a cultural hub with museums, historical sites, and vibrant markets showcasing African traditions. Volunteers will also experience the diverse landscapes of South Africa, from bushland to city life. The reserve is home to rich wildlife, including lions, elephants, and rhinos, offering a stunning natural environment. Local communities around the reserve face challenges in early childhood education, and this program helps bridge that gap. By working with daycare centers and the Baby Safe House, volunteers gain insight into the realities of childcare in South Africa. Weekends offer a chance to explore nearby attractions, such as Pilanesberg National Park and Pretoria. Volunteers may also visit Soweto to learn more about South Africa’s history and culture. The farm setting provides a peaceful retreat, allowing volunteers to recharge while being surrounded by nature.
About the Organization
This project focuses on early childhood development, providing structured care and education for young children in underserved communities. Through daycare programs and a Baby Safe House, it ensures that children receive the support they need for healthy growth. Volunteers help fill gaps in education and caregiving while supporting local teachers and parents.
Your Role as a Volunteer
Volunteers assist with both structured and hands-on activities to promote learning and well-being for young children. At the daycare centers, they introduce movement-based learning, crafts, and storytelling, while at the Baby Safe House, they provide essential care to infants. Volunteers also contribute to improving facilities, preparing meals, and assisting caregivers in their training.
Key Volunteer Tasks
A Typical Day
A volunteer’s day starts at 7:00 AM with breakfast before heading to the daycare centers by 8:30 AM. Volunteers spend the morning helping teachers with lessons and play-based learning. After a midday break, afternoons involve assisting at the Baby Safe House or working on community development projects. The day concludes with a team debrief, followed by dinner and free time.
Note: This program truly relies on the support of international volunteers. While we welcome participants from around the world, we cannot guarantee international volunteer groups at all times. You should be independent, adaptable, and open to immersing themselves in the local culture and working closely with staff.
During weekends, volunteers can take part in exciting activities in and around the Dinokeng Game Reserve (extra fee applies, details provided after application):
GoEco has a network of volunteer programs across South Africa, allowing you to combine different projects and explore other regions, including Cape Town and Kruger National Park.
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