Children’s Home with Intellectual Disabilities – Chiang Mai Volunteer Program
Join Friends for Asia in Chiang Mai for a meaningful volunteer experience in Thailand supporting children, teens, and adults with intellectual disabilities. Our partner is operating under the Foundation for the Education of Autistic Children and the Royal Patronage of Her Majesty the Queen. The Center focuses on care, education, training, and advocacy to improve the quality of life and independence. Approximately 40 individuals are supported—about half children (ages 3–18) and half adults (18+).
Who You’ll Support
You’ll work alongside Thai teachers and caregivers in a warm, structured environment designed for learners with a wide range of developmental needs. The aim is to build daily living skills, confidence, and community participation.
What You’ll Do
Morning Session – Developmental Classrooms
You’ll assist teachers and caregivers in one of three classrooms, grouped by developmental progress. Placements can rotate based on daily needs.
Classroom 1
Learners with autism at the earliest developmental stage; many are non-verbal and may need extra support with emotional regulation.
Classroom 2
Learners with autism and intellectual disabilities at a moderate developmental level; able to follow basic instructions and benefit from consistent routines.
Classroom 3
Learners with stronger developmental skills who are in vocational training or help with assigned responsibilities around the Center.
Afternoon Session – Vocational & Life Skills
Afternoons focus on practical skills that support independence. Activities vary by day:
Weekly Activity Guide
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Monday: Basic computer skills
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Tuesday: Making mask straps
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Wednesday: Cooking class
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Thursday: Candle making & tote bag painting
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Friday: Swimming (off-site; classes rotate weekly)
Volunteer Schedule
Arrival & Orientation (Week 1)
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Friday: Arrive in Chiang Mai and settle into the volunteer house.
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Saturday & Sunday: Pre-Service Volunteer Orientation, Chiang Mai city tour, and a cultural activity. You’ll also review Volunteer Reports from past participants to set expectations.
First Project Day
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Monday: Begin your service. A Volunteer Coordinator travels with you by local transport, introduces you to the Center’s staff, and reviews your daily schedule, placement, and any special activities.
Days Off
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Saturday & Sunday: Regular days off. If special events are happening at the Center, you’re welcome to join. Otherwise, enjoy Chiang Mai—temples, markets, food, and nature.
End-of-Month Special Activity
During the last 4–5 days of each month, many children return home and regular classes pause. Volunteers may:
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Join staff on home visits, or
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Help at the Foundation with educational prep, admin support, or facility maintenance.
Transportation
What’s Included
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Airport pick-up, city tour, and transport to/from the welcome cultural show and dinner are included in your program fee.
Getting to the Center
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On Day 1, coordinators take you to the Center.
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After that, you’ll use local public transportation to/from the city. Staff meet you at the designated point each morning and drop you back there after work.
Medical Support
For non-emergencies, Friends for Asia staff can assist with clinic visits. In an emergency, an ambulance will be used. Volunteers cover their own costs for multiple personal medical or dental appointments.
Food
Meals
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Breakfast: Provided daily at the volunteer house
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Lunch: Provided at the Center on working days; on your own on weekends
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Dinner: On your own (great chance to explore Chiang Mai’s food scene)
What to Bring
Small, Thoughtful Items (Optional)
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Picture books and bright storybooks
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Fun pencils, erasers, or postcards from your country
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Non-melting snacks from home (avoid chocolate)
Most important: bring patience and flexibility. Things can change quickly in Thailand and at a busy center—rolling with it makes the experience better for everyone.
Health & Safety
Common-Sense Care
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Follow basic hygiene and health guidelines when working with children.
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If you’re new to working with kids, ask staff or experienced caregivers for tips.
When Not to Volunteer
If you’re sick with a communicable illness (e.g., cold or flu), please rest and return when well. This protects the children and other volunteers.
Working Well with People with Intellectual Disabilities
Practical Tips
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Some children and adults may communicate differently—or not verbally at all. Use visual supports and pictures where helpful.
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Never punish or retaliate. If you feel overwhelmed, alert a staff member immediately—activities are always supervised by trained professionals.
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No jewelry while working.
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Don’t give snacks without checking with staff; some children struggle with feeling full or have dietary needs.
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Expect lots of affection—hugs are common!
Smoking & Alcohol
Smoking and drinking are strictly prohibited at the Center. Please refrain from smoking for the entire time you’re on duty—even off the immediate premises.
Clothes, Appearance & Code of Conduct
Dress Code (Casual but Modest)
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Wear: Long pants (neat jeans are fine) and regular t-shirts.
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Avoid:
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Visible tattoos (please cover, especially for women)
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Facial piercings for men; for women, limit to ears
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Sleeveless or low-cut tops
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Short skirts, shorts, or dresses above the knee
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Tight, revealing, or see-through clothing
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Criminal Background Check (Required for All Volunteers)
What’s Required
All volunteers must provide a criminal background check with a clear record before starting the project.
How to Get It
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Obtain it from your national government or local police department.
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If timing is tight, contact Friends for Asia for approved online options.
Cost
Volunteers cover the cost of the background check. Without a valid check, we can’t confirm your placement.
Why It Matters
This step protects the children, staff, and communities we serve. We know it takes effort, but it’s essential to maintaining safe, responsible volunteer projects in Thailand.
Close of Service
Volunteer Report & Exit Conversation
Before leaving Chiang Mai, you’ll complete a short Volunteer Report to help future participants prepare, and have a close-of-service conversation (e.g., with Todd) to reflect on expectations, wins, challenges, and next steps. For longer placements, we’ll also discuss re-entry and reverse culture shock so you return home confident about the impact you made and the lessons you’re taking with you.