When you send a child to live with someone else, the smallest details matter the most. We've seen Burmese families arrive in Chiang Mai having paid deposits to places that turned out to be a rented apartment with no caretaker, no kitchen, and no licence. Here is the checklist we wish every parent had before they signed.
1. A Thai business licence
This is non-negotiable. A licensed boarding house is registered with the local authority, pays Thai tax, and is subject to inspections. Ask to see the licence β a legitimate operator will show it within minutes. If the answer is vague, walk away.
2. A dedicated, on-site caretaker
Not a part-time visit. A real boarding house has staff who live on site or are present from morning to evening every day. Ask: who is in the house at 11pm if my child has a fever? If the answer is we'll come quickly, that's not enough.
3. All meals included, prepared on site
Three meals a day, made in a real kitchen. Not delivery. Not vouchers. Real cooking, varied menu, balanced nutrition. Ask to see the kitchen and ask about food allergies. Ask if Myanmar dishes are part of the rotation β children far from home need familiar tastes.
4. Air purifiers (especially in Chiang Mai)
Smoke season is February through April. Without air purifiers, children get sick, miss school, and their lungs are damaged. This is not optional in Chiang Mai. Read more about PM 2.5.
5. School transport handled
The boarding house should organise daily drop-off and pick-up. Children should not be taking the local songthaew alone, especially not at first. Ask: who drives, what vehicle, what hours?
6. Supervised evening study time
A real boarding house has a quiet study window after dinner β usually 7pm to 9pm β when a staff member is available to help with homework. If everyone is just on their phones at night, the academic results show it.
7. Direct, regular communication with parents
Weekly photo updates. Reachable on Facebook Messenger and Viber within hours. Quick to share school report cards. Distance is hard enough β silence makes it worse.
8. A clear contract in writing
Monthly rate, what's included, notice period, deposit refund terms. Vague verbal agreements turn into disputes β always insist on a written contract you can keep a copy of.
Why we built SSELC around this list
The eight points above are not exceptional β they should be the minimum. SSELC was founded because too many Burmese families had been let down by informal arrangements. We are a licensed Thai company, with on-site caretakers, real kitchens, air purifiers, school transport, supervised study, weekly parent updates and clear written contracts.
Use this list when you compare options β including comparing us with others. See what's included at SSELC.