From Homeschool Programs to Unschooling Bliss: Our Family’s Journey in Bali

When we first touched down in Bali, our children were still following a structured homeschool program—complete with online check-ins and assessments tethered to our home country of Australia. At the time, it gave us peace of mind and a sense of routine in a brand-new environment. But as the island’s rhythm began to seep into our daily life, something shifted.

Slowly, we realized that the rich learning we craved was unfolding all around us—without rigid schedules. Local markets became our math lessons. Crafting offerings for temple ceremonies spurred conversations on culture, religion, and history. And daily adventures, from rice paddies to shoreline clean-ups, inspired a curiosity no textbook ever could.

Today, we’ve shed the last of the formal structure for our younger children. No more digital portals. No more weekly reports. Just us, leaning fully into unschooling—where learning flows organically from our interests and surroundings. Our second oldest still retains a loose connection to the program, but we no longer report to Australia. We’ve claimed our right to choose what matters most in their education.

Interestingly, our days haven’t changed drastically. We've simply become more intentional. Handwriting practice after smoothie bowls. Reading sessions under swaying palm trees. Spontaneous science experiments sparked by beach finds.

For families considering a move to Bali or traveling long-term, know this: it’s possible to blend structure with freedom. To honor the basics while diving deep into the beauty of the world around you. For us, unschooling hasn’t been a ‘letting go’—it’s been a leaning in. To our environment, our children, and this incredible season of life.

It feels calmer. More grounded. More us. 🤍