In a world where traditional education systems dictate the boundaries of learning, some families are choosing to break free from the constraints by embracing a concept known as ‘worldschooling.’ Specifically, ‘worldschooling’ involves turning the whole world into a classroom for children. It allows parents to take their kids out of conventional schools and embark on a journey that exposes them to different parts of the globe. This approach is driven by the belief that immersive experiences fueled by curiosity are powerful tools for learning.
Carol Tan and Rakcent Wong are a couple who have fully embraced the worldschooling concept. Their journey began with a shared passion for adventure and exploration. Before the arrival of their son, Atlas, they traveled to various off-the-beaten-path destinations, gaining personal growth and transformation with each trip. It was this transformative power of travel that inspired them to continue their adventures as a family.
Despite the conventional wisdom that having children limits one’s ability to travel, Tan and Wong decided to challenge this notion. They believed that exposing young Atlas to the world at an early age would be more beneficial than confining him to a preschool environment. By taking a sabbatical from work and traveling extensively with their son, they aimed to provide him with a unique and enriching educational experience that transcended traditional classroom learning.
The couple strategically timed their trip to coincide with Atlas’ formative years, ensuring that he was old enough to absorb the world around him but not yet required to start formal schooling. Through careful financial planning and sacrifices, they were able to make their dream of worldschooling a reality. By immersing Atlas in diverse cultures and environments, they aimed to foster his curiosity, problem-solving skills, and socialization.
Tan and Wong based their educational approach on three core principles: sparking curiosity, encouraging problem-solving, and promoting socialization through immersion. They believed that learning should be driven by a child’s innate sense of wonder and curiosity. By providing Atlas with hands-on experiences and opportunities to interact with children from different backgrounds, they created a rich learning environment that extended far beyond the confines of a traditional classroom.
Central to Atlas’ worldschooling curriculum was the element of play. Through play, he was able to learn essential skills such as communication, collaboration, and adaptability. By engaging with children who spoke different languages and navigating new social situations, Atlas developed a deeper understanding of the world around him. Tan and Wong also led by example, modeling positive behaviors and cultivating a spirit of continuous learning within their family dynamic.
As Atlas embarked on his worldschooling adventure, he underwent significant personal growth and development. From expanding his palate to becoming more inquisitive about the world, he demonstrated a remarkable openness to new experiences. His ability to ask detailed questions and seek out knowledge independently reflected a deep-seated desire to learn and explore. Through their shared journey, Tan, Wong, and Atlas not only grew as individuals but also as a tightly-knit family unit.
As Tan, Wong, and Atlas continue their worldschooling journey, they are actively seeking opportunities to extend their sabbatical to two years. They view the vastness of the world as a boundless source of learning and exploration, and they are determined to make the most of their time together. By breaking free from traditional constraints and embracing the unknown, this family is not only defying expectations but also redefining the way we think about education, travel, and the boundless potential of experiential learning.