Historically, convents and monasteries often were more the solution for what to do with surplus adults than with being dedicated to prayer. Especially ones who did not want to marry or weren't suited for usual occupations. No surprise many were not very holy places when part of the population was there for the wrong reasons, or that they would be poor caregivers. I don't hold that against all of them--people knew what to expect in various communities and were "called" to the ones that suited them. I know sad stories of one in Ireland. Culturally, illegitimate children were scorned and these sisters treated their charges very badly, even killing them. However, in general there haven't ever been good options anywhere for children without families. And it is still that way. Government care is often abusive, sometimes lifesaving. Just as hit or miss as workhouses and convents.
Historically, convents and monasteries often were more the solution for what to do with surplus adults than with being dedicated to prayer. Especially ones who did not want to marry or weren't suited for usual occupations. No surprise many were not very holy places when part of the population was there for the wrong reasons, or that they would be poor caregivers. I don't hold that against all of them--people knew what to expect in various communities and were "called" to the ones that suited them. I know sad stories of one in Ireland. Culturally, illegitimate children were scorned and these sisters treated their charges very badly, even killing them. However, in general there haven't ever been good options anywhere for children without families. And it is still that way. Government care is often abusive, sometimes lifesaving. Just as hit or miss as workhouses and convents.