From Boxes to Freedom: Our Evolving Homeschool Journey in Bali

A little throwback to Chad finishing up our first term of first homeschool in Bali — and wow, how much has changed since then... Two years later, we’ve grown, shifted, learned, and made some big decisions for our family. We’ve officially deregistered the kids from Australian schooling, which means no reporting and no ticking boxes for systems that don’t fit us. They’re now “free agents” — still learning, still progressing, just in a way that feels right for them. We also let go of the program we were using for the younger two. It was fine… but honestly? It started feeling too easy. I wanted to go deeper, challenge them more, and make space for richer learning. So 2026 will bring a new curriculum — still loosely aligned with Australian standards, but with room for: • Indonesian language • Local art lessons • Cultural excursions • Hands-on learning • And a big return to the fundamentals: reading, writing, real handwriting (because two years of online school definitely showed some gaps 😅). Our high schooler is still doing his online program, but he’s also deregistered — meaning no reporting, just responsibility. Weekly check-ins, support when he needs it, and the freedom to chase what interests him (like National Writers Month — which he absolutely smashed). Homeschool in Bali looks so different now compared to that first day… and next year it’ll probably evolve again. But honestly? I’m excited. This feels right for our family, and I can’t wait to see what this next chapter brings.