Orphans and underprivileged children are not tourist attractions. ... While many people believe that all visits to orphanages exploit the children and cause more harm than good, there are some instances when visits can be beneficial. Visitors can be a blessing to some of the world's most vulnerable children.

Why visiting orphanages is bad?

Voluntourism in orphanages leaves children vulnerable to abuse where child protection regulations are lax. It creates attachment problems in children who become close to short-term visitors and perpetuates the myth that many of these children are orphans in need of adoption.

What happens when you go to an orphanage?

Children living in orphanages tend to lead fairly structured lives. Due to the nature of an orphanage – many children, and fewer caregivers – life happens on a schedule. Children get up, get cleaned, eat, learn, and recreate in a regimented way.