The aim of this final paper is to highlight the importance of residential institutions for the upbringing and education of children in the Republic of Croatia. In the first part of the paper, the basic terms related to residential pedagogy are defined, followed by a brief historical overview of residential institutions worldwide and in the Republic of Croatia. The paper distinguishes between different types of residential institutions, focusing primarily on student dormitories and the activities carried out in them. It also calls for better utilization of the educational potential of homes for the elderly and infirm. The paper outlines and emphasizes the roles of educational workers in these institutions, with special emphasis on the role of educators. Educational activities in residential institutions are guided by certain principles, carried out using different methods and with the help of different means, and this paper lists all the relevant areas of these activities. As an organization, a residential institution, in addition to mandatory activities, organizes activities for quality leisure time both within and outside the institution. All activities are carried out with the goal of quality development and full potential realization of users, and this is achieved through collaboration between staff members and the cooperation between staff members and users.