If you are looking for holiday inspiration for the whole family then we think we have some excellent family volunteering ideas for the intrepid amongst you. Volunteering is an exciting way to spend a few weeks that will provide you and the children with memories that will last forever. Finding an opportunity that is suitable for all the family, whatever their age, can be a challenge so we have put together some of our most popular programmes that are suitable for the whole family whatever their ages.
For those with younger children
Young children often love wildlife and the outdoors and what better to encourage that enthusiasm than to get them involved in a volunteering programme. Children need to be at least 5 years old to take part in any of our programmes but the following family volunteering ideas are the ones that we think are best suited if you have children under 10.
Costa Rica turtles – this is one of our most popular family programmes. Located on the beach there is plenty to do when you aren’t volunteering too. This programme is suitable for children from the age of 5 up. If your little ones aren’t up to volunteering all hours that is okay we are happy for you manage their involvement and they can choose to do fewer night patrols if necessary.
“It far exceeded my expectation! it was a tropical paradise.” – Ernestine Julye
South Africa monkeys – our most hands-on programme that appeals to families who are happy to get really stuck in. Monkeys must be some of the most engaging and fascinating creatures and many families have loved getting working with them
“I’d rate our holiday as excellent, and would recommend to anyone.” – The Jeanes Family
Wildlife conservation in Borneo – a wonderful programme for those looking to work alongside other intrepid families. The programme is tailored especially for families with children aged between 8 and 13 so it is the perfect option for younger families.
Namibia elephants – this programme is a really wonderful option for the more intrepid of families. The programme is specifically designed for families so you will be joining other like-minded families who are also looking for a wildlife adventure.
For those with teenage children
As all parents of teenagers know they can be difficult to please but we have found that the following family volunteering ideas have been really popular with teenagers of all ages. They are a great opportunity to spend some quality time with the family whilst also allow your teens to learn about the world around them.
Thailand wildlife sanctuary – one of our most popular programmes that is suitable for families with children aged 12 and over. It is a great mix of family time but also allows some independence too.
Thailand elephant sanctuary – if your children are older still then our Thailand elephant sanctuary programme is a great option. Children must be over 14 years old to take part in the programme. Why not combine this with our wildlife sanctuary programme for a really varied experience?
“Highlights were so many! The main one has to be feeding an elephant and getting so close to them, but other highlights included the camaraderie of all the volunteers of all nationalities and some of the side splitting laughs we all had there. And jumping in the river fully clothed after a morning carrying banana trees was a highlight…There is so much to do and see in the world, it opens you up to so many new and exciting opportunities. It is a brilliant place and has a caring ethos towards the animals that have been abused. You will come away changed after a placement here.” – The Millar family.
If you would like to read about the other family options that we have available then please check out our family volunteering page for more inspiration.
