How Volunteers Can Support Without Taking Over

A good volunteer does not need to do everything for a child.

Sometimes the best support is creating enough time, space, and options for the child to do something for themselves.

Bronx Special Kids’ volunteer guidance encourages volunteers to speak clearly, offer choices, use First/Then language, validate feelings, provide access to breaks, and use visual and AAC supports during activities.

Instead of immediately completing a task for someone, try these approaches.

Show first. Demonstrate how the tool or activity works.

Give a choice. “Would you like the rake or the shovel?”

Wait. Some children need additional processing time.

Offer another way. Gloves, a different tool, pictures, pointing, or observation may make the activity accessible.

Respect breaks. Taking a break is not misbehavior.

Follow the child’s communication. Speech is not the only valid way to answer.

Volunteers do not need to become therapists. Their role is to help create an environment where children are respected, supported, and able to participate as independently as possible.

Source note: Adapted from the Bronx Special Kids Day 1 Volunteer Cheat Sheet in the Sensory Gardening Curriculum Packet.