Worldschooling: A Complete Guide 2023

orldschooling is a lifestyle that allows families to travel the world while learning. Instead of being confined within four walls, world schoolers prioritize experiential learning by immersing themselves in different cultures and environments.

Starting a worldschooling journey may seem daunting, but it allows for unparalleled experiences that cannot be replicated in a classroom setting. Worldschoolers often follow a self-directed learning theory, allowing children to explore their interests and passions at their own pace.

One of the most exciting aspects of worldschooling is the global community it creates. Families from diverse backgrounds and cultures come together to share their experiences and knowledge, creating an enriching environment for all learners.

So how do you start your own worldschooling journey? It's as simple as packing your bags and hitting the road! But before embarking on this adventure, it's important to research destinations, budget accordingly, and connect with other worldschoolers for support.

Join us as we explore the exciting world of worldschooling!

What is Worldschooling and How it Differs from Traditional Schooling?

Definition of Worldschooling

Worldschooling is a form of education that takes place outside the traditional classroom setting. It involves traveling to different parts of the world to learn about different cultures, languages, and ways of life. Worldschooling emphasizes experiential learning and encourages students to explore the world around them.

Difference between Worldschooling and Traditional Schooling

Unlike traditional schooling, worldschooling allows for a more flexible and personalized approach to learning. In traditional schooling, students are confined to a classroom for several hours a day, five days a week. They follow a set curriculum that may not necessarily cater to their individual needs or interests.

In contrast, worldschoolers have the freedom to choose what they want to learn based on their interests and passions. They can also learn at their own pace without being pressured by deadlines or grades. This approach allows for more creativity and innovation in learning.

Another key difference between worldschooling and traditional schooling is the emphasis on experiential learning. In traditional schools, students may read about different cultures or historical events in textbooks but never get to experience them firsthand. With worldschooling, students have the opportunity to immerse themselves in different cultures and gain a deeper understanding of the world around them.

What Does Worldschooling Look Like?

Worldschooling can take many forms depending on the family's preferences and budget. Some families opt for long-term travel where they spend months or even years exploring different parts of the world while others prefer shorter trips during school breaks.

One popular approach is slow travel which involves spending an extended period in one location before moving on to another destination. This allows families to fully immerse themselves in local culture while still maintaining some sense of routine with regard to schoolwork.

Another option is online learning which has become increasingly popular over recent years due to advancements in technology. Online learning allows students to access educational resources from anywhere in the world and work at their own pace.

Worldschooling can look different for every family depending on their preferences and budget. Here are some examples of what worldschooling can look like:

• A family spends a year traveling around Europe, visiting historical sites, museums, and cultural events.
• A family spends six months living in a small village in South America, learning Spanish and volunteering at a local school.
• A family takes an extended trip to Southeast Asia where they explore different countries, learn about Buddhism, and study the history of the region.
• A family uses online resources to homeschool while traveling around the United States in an RV.

Why is Worldschooling Gaining Popularity?

Worldschooling is gaining popularity because it offers families a unique opportunity to learn about the world beyond traditional classroom walls. It allows students to gain a deeper understanding of different cultures, languages, and ways of life which can help them become more open-minded and empathetic individuals.

Worldschooling provides families with a chance to spend quality time together while creating lifelong memories.

Benefits of Worldschooling:

More Family Time

One of the most significant benefits of worldschooling is that it allows families to spend more time together. Traditional schooling often means spending long hours in a classroom and completing homework after school, leaving little time for family bonding. With worldschooling, families can travel together and learn while experiencing new cultures.

Worldschooling provides parents with an opportunity to teach their children through real-life experiences. Families can visit museums, historical sites, and other educational destinations that allow children to learn about different subjects in a hands-on way. This approach to learning encourages children to ask questions and explore topics that interest them.

Exposure to New Cultures

Many families choose worldschooling because they want their children to experience different cultures firsthand. Traveling allows children to see how people live in other parts of the world and gain a greater appreciation for diversity.

By immersing themselves in new cultures, children learn about different traditions, foods, languages, and beliefs. This exposure expands their worldview and helps them develop empathy for others who may have different perspectives.

Parents who choose worldschooling often say that it's one of the best ways for their children to become global citizens. It exposes them to new ideas and teaches them how to adapt to unfamiliar situations.

Discover New Interests

Worldschooling also gives children an opportunity to discover new interests. Traditional schooling typically follows a set curriculum with little room for exploration outside of designated classes or extracurricular activities.

In contrast, worldschooling allows parents and children to tailor the learning experience based on individual interests. Children can pursue activities such as hiking, surfing, or cooking lessons while traveling which could lead them towards discovering passions they never knew existed.

Being exposed to daily life in foreign countries opens up opportunities beyond just academics; from gaining language skills through communication with locals to developing skills in art, music, or sports.

Unique Educational Experiences

Worldschooling provides unique educational experiences that can't be replicated in a classroom. Traveling allows children to learn about history, geography, and culture in a way that makes them come alive. It also allows them to learn about the environment by visiting national parks and other natural wonders.

Worldschooling can provide opportunities for internships or volunteer work which allow children to gain hands-on experience in their area of interest while giving back to communities they visit.

Tips for Starting a Worldschooling Lifestyle: Budgeting, Planning, Resources

Determine your budget for worldschooling

Worldschooling can be an enriching experience for both parents and children. However, it can also be expensive. The first step to starting a worldschooling lifestyle is to determine your budget. This will help you plan your itinerary and make decisions about where to go and how long to stay.

To determine your budget, consider the following factors:

• Your current income
• Your expenses at home (e.g., rent/mortgage, utilities, food)
• The cost of travel (flights, accommodations, transportation)
• The cost of activities and excursions
• Emergency funds

Once you have determined your budget, you can start looking into affordable destinations that fit within your financial constraints.

Research affordable destinations and accommodations

One pro tip for worldschoolers on a budget is to research affordable destinations and accommodations. Some countries are more expensive than others, so it's important to do your research before booking any flights or accommodations.

Consider staying in hostels or Airbnb rentals instead of hotels. These options tend to be less expensive and offer more opportunities for cultural immersion. Look into destinations that offer free or low-cost activities such as hiking trails or museums.

Create a flexible itinerary to accommodate unexpected changes

Planning is crucial. However, unexpected changes are bound to happen when traveling with children. That's why it's important to create a flexible itinerary that allows for changes in plans.

When planning your itinerary:

• Consider the ages of your children
• Plan activities that align with their interests
• Leave room for downtime
• Be prepared for unexpected events such as illness or weather-related issues

Having a flexible itinerary will allow you to adjust plans as needed without causing too much disruption.

Utilize online resources/experts such as travel blogs and forums for advice

Learning from experts and people already practicing can be useful to families who want to learn about world schooling

Andreas Wilhelm Gerdes is a German entrepreneur, digital nomad, consultor, and benefactor based in Malta. He has been one of the speakers at the Kairos Society and is a consultant on the MaNaBu educational project.

Lizz Quain is an experienced worldschooler herself, Lizz understands the unique challenges and rewards that come with combining education and travel. Through her expertise, she provides guidance, support, and practical advice to parents seeking to embark on their own world schooling journeys. She is the founder of Trailblazing Families https://www.facebook.com/TrailblazingFamilies

Laini Liberti Founder of Project Worldschool. Lainie is an author, speaker, community leader, teen coach, and alternative education advocate who helped to spearhead the thriving worldschooling movement.

Connect with other Worldschooling families for support and tips

Finally, one of the best ways to get started with worldschooling is to connect with other families who have already embarked on this journey. Join online groups or attend events such as family travel conferences to meet like-minded individuals.

Connecting with other worldschoolers can provide invaluable support and advice. You can learn from their experiences and avoid common pitfalls

Worlschooling Hubs

Worldschooling hubs are vibrant communities or centers that support families by blending travel and education for their children. These hubs offer resources, connections, and a nurturing environment. Connect with like-minded individuals, access educational materials, and embark on a personalized learning journey. 

Worldschool Pop-Up Hub

Worldschooler Pop-Ups are mobile, temporary gatherings lasting a week, designed to unite individuals in a shared love for exploration. Set in various locations and times, these events offer expected experiences like museum visits, beach outings, and farmers' market strolls. Yet, it is the element of surprise and spontaneous adventure that truly sets them apart. Join this vibrant community to connect, create memories, and embark on thrilling journeys.

https://www.worldschoolpopuphub.com/ 

Boundless Life 

Surround yourself with a community of like-minded families who have the freedom to work from anywhere.

Join a flexible, forward-thinking education program for your children.

Unschool Adventures

The organization is dedicated to empowering self-directed young people, providing them with the tools to build new friendships, create unforgettable memories, and cultivate the confidence needed to embrace an unconventional life

Project World School 

Project World School invites teens and young adults to participate in immersive learning events around the world. Designed for homeschoolers, unschoolers, and democratic learners, these events form Temporary Learning Communities that utilize the captivating landscapes of our host countries for exploration and discovery. Join us as we empower young individuals to embrace immersive education and unlock their full potential.

Worldschoolers Bucketlist 

They organize Adventure Meetups to bring together like-minded individuals from around the globe, fostering connections and friendships. Join us for immersive experiences, cultural exchanges, and lifelong memories.

https://www.worldschoolersbucketlist.com/upcoming-events

Worldschoolers in Thailand- A group by Rebecca Wegmann https://www.facebook.com/groups/429152322487588

Curriculum Guide for Worldschooling:

Worldschooling is an alternative form of education that involves traveling around the world while learning about different cultures and lifestyles. This type of education allows children to experience the world in a unique way and learn from firsthand experiences. However, choosing the right curriculum for worldschooling can be challenging.

Math

Here are some tips on how to incorporate math into your worldschooling curriculum:

• Use real-life examples: Teach math concepts by using practical examples from everyday life.
• Online resources: There are several online resources such as Khan Academy or Mathletics that offer interactive lessons and quizzes.
• Games: Incorporate games like Sudoku or chess to make learning fun.

Science

Here's how you can incorporate science into your worldschooling curriculum:

• Experiments: Conduct experiments with everyday materials to teach science concepts.
• Nature walks: Take nature walks to explore different environments and ecosystems.
• Virtual tours: Many museums offer virtual tours of their exhibits which can be used to teach science concepts.

Language Learning

Language learning is an essential part of worldschooling as it allows children to communicate with people from different cultures. Here are some tips on how to incorporate language learning into your worldschooling curriculum:

• Immersion programs: Enroll your child in immersion programs where they can learn a new language while living with a local family.
• Language apps: Use language learning apps like Duolingo or Babbel which offer interactive lessons and quizzes.
• Language exchanges: Connect with other families who speak the language you want your child to learn and arrange language exchanges.

Cultural Studies

Cultural studies are an essential part of worldschooling as they allow children to understand and appreciate different cultures. Here's how you can incorporate cultural studies into your worldschooling curriculum:

• Local festivals: Attend local festivals and events to learn about the culture and traditions of the place you're visiting.
• Museums: Visit museums that showcase the history and culture of the place you're visiting.
• Food tours: Take food tours to learn about local cuisine and culinary traditions.

Real Stories and Insights from Successful Worldschooling Families

Worldschooling is an innovative approach to education where families travel the world and learn through experiences. It provides a unique opportunity for children to learn about different cultures, languages, and ways of life.

Real-Life Experiences of Successful Worldschooling Families

The best way to understand the benefits of worldschooling is by hearing from families who have done it successfully. The following are some stories from successful worldschoolers:

Backpacking Family: Embracing the World as Their Classroom!

• The Backpacking Family has chosen a unique path for their education. With their beautiful children by their side, they embark on daily adventures, exploring the world and learning together. Through immersive experiences, they discover joy, knowledge, and a new way to live as a family.

Crazy Family Adventure: Redefining Life on the Road!

• Crazy Family Adventure embarked on a remarkable journey by selling their belongings, moving into an RV, and embracing a worldschooling lifestyle. With four kids, originally aged 2, 4, 4, and 6, alongside their furry companion (formerly two dogs), they have been traveling throughout North America for over 5 years.
• This adventurous family has redefined their lives, trading a conventional home for the freedom of the open road. They have created a unique learning experience for their children while immersing themselves in the diverse landscapes and cultures of the continent. Join them as they prove that a life of exploration and education can be extraordinary.

BagsPackedFamily-

• Meet the Bags Packed Family: Jonathan, Kelly, and their three children. Seven years ago, they made a life-changing decision to sell their home in Alaska, USA, and embark on a global journey. As teachers, they found exciting teaching positions in India, followed by a move to the United Arab Emirates two years later. When the pandemic hit, they relocated to Indonesia for their current teaching jobs.
• Passionate about traveling and seeking adventures together, the Bags Packed Family hopes to inspire their children to embrace new experiences, connect with people from different cultures, savor diverse cuisines, and enjoy learning new languages. Through their vlogs, they aim to ignite a sense of wanderlust and inspire others to explore the world. Join them on their incredible journey and let their adventures inspire your own!

Lifestyle and Activities of Worldschooling Families

Worldschooling families have a unique lifestyle that allows them to balance education with exploration. Here are some activities that worldschoolers enjoy:

• Visiting museums, historical sites, and cultural events
• Participating in local festivals and celebrations
• Learning new languages through immersion
• Volunteering in community service projects
• Trying new foods and recipes from around the world

Flexibility and Freedom with Worldschooling

Homeschooling for Worldschoolers

Homeschooling is a popular option for worldschoolers because it provides the flexibility needed for travel. Homeschooled children can study at their own pace and on their own schedule, which means they can take time off when they need to travel or explore new places. Homeschool curriculums vary greatly so parents can tailor their child’s education to meet their needs and interests.

Unschooling for Worldschoolers

Unschooling is another option for worldschoolers. Unschoolers believe that children learn best when they are free to pursue their own interests and passions. This approach allows children to learn about the world around them in an organic way as they explore new cultures and environments.

Online School for Worldschoolers

Online school is becoming increasingly popular among worldschoolers because it provides access to quality education from anywhere in the world with an internet connection. Many online schools offer international programs such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or Middle Years Programme (MYP), which allow students to earn internationally recognized qualifications.

Digital Nomads and Worldschooling

Digital nomads are people who work remotely while traveling the world. They often choose world schooling as a way of educating their children because it allows them to work and travel simultaneously. With advances in technology, digital nomads can work from almost anywhere in the world, making it easier than ever before to combine work and travel.

Concerns About Worldschooling

One concern that some parents may have about world schooling is being away from home for long periods of time. However, there are ways to mitigate this concern such as renting a house or apartment instead of staying in hotels or hostels. This allows families to have a “home base” while still experiencing new places.

Relation between world schooling and remote working

Travel and work simultaneously

Worldschooling is a way of educating children by traveling to different parts of the world. Remote working, on the other hand, allows people to work from anywhere in the world as long as they have an internet connection. The combination of these two lifestyles can be incredibly beneficial for families who want to explore the world while still earning an income.

By embracing both worldschooling and remote working, parents can provide their children with an education that goes beyond textbooks. Children can learn about different cultures, languages, and ways of life by experiencing them firsthand. They can also develop valuable life skills such as adaptability, resilience, and independence.

Flexibility for worldschooling

One of the biggest challenges that families face. Traditional schooling schedules often make it difficult for families to take extended trips without disrupting their children's education. However, remote working provides the flexibility needed for worldschooling.

Families who embrace remote working can create their own schedules and work at their own pace. This means that they can take time off whenever they need to travel or explore new places without worrying about missing out on work or falling behind on assignments.

Exposure to different cultures and languages

Worldschooling allows children to experience different cultures and languages firsthand. By traveling to different countries, children can learn about history, art, music, food, and traditions that are unique to each place they visit.

This exposure can help broaden their perspectives and teach them empathy towards people from different backgrounds. It also opens up opportunities for language learning as children are immersed in a foreign language environment where they have no choice but to communicate in another language.

Financial stability for families who worldschool

One common concern that many families have when considering worldschooling is financial stability. Traveling around the world isn't cheap, so how can families afford to do it while still earning an income?

This is where remote working comes in. By working remotely, parents can earn a steady income while traveling the world with their children. They don't have to worry about taking time off work or missing out on paychecks because they can work from anywhere in the world.

Many countries offer lower living costs than Western countries, which means that families can stretch their budgets further and live more comfortably while exploring new places.

Future of Schooling 

Worldschooling is a relatively new concept in education that has been gaining popularity among families worldwide. This long-term education option allows students to learn through immersive and experiential experiences, providing them with a global perspective that traditional schooling methods are falling behind in providing.

What makes Worldschooling: A Popular Long-Term Education Option for Families

Worldschooling involves traveling around the world while learning about different cultures, languages, history, geography, and more. It is an alternative form of education that allows students to experience firsthand what they learn in textbooks. Parents who choose worldschooling believe that it provides their children with a unique opportunity to develop critical thinking skills, independence, adaptability, and cultural awareness.

One reason why worldschooling is becoming increasingly popular is that it offers flexibility in terms of curriculum and schedule. Parents can tailor their children's education based on their interests and strengths while also incorporating local experiences into their learning journey. Many families find that worldschooling is more cost-effective than traditional schooling as they can save money on tuition fees by using online resources or homeschool curriculums.

Traditional Schooling Methods Are Falling Behind in Providing Students With a Global Perspective

Traditional schooling methods often focus on rote memorization rather than critical thinking skills development. While students may learn about other countries' history or geography in textbooks or lectures, they do not have the opportunity to experience these places firsthand. This lack of exposure can lead to narrow-mindedness and an inability to understand diverse perspectives.

Moreover, traditional schooling methods often prioritize standardized testing over real-world application of knowledge. This approach does not allow students to develop practical skills or apply what they have learned outside of the classroom setting.

Worldschooling Allows for a More Immersive and Experiential Learning Experience

Worldschooling provides students with an immersive and experiential learning experience that traditional schooling methods cannot match. By traveling to different countries, they can learn about the local customs, languages, traditions, and history. This firsthand exposure allows them to develop a deeper understanding of other cultures' perspectives and values.

Moreover, worldschooling encourages self-directed learning as students have more control over their education. They can choose what they want to learn based on their interests and passions while also gaining practical skills such as budgeting, planning, problem-solving, language acquisition, and cultural adaptation.

World Schooling Exposes You to Languages

World schooling is an exciting concept that combines education and travel to create an immersive learning experience. One of the many benefits of world schooling is the exposure it provides to different languages and cultures.

Learning a new language is an essential skill for world schoolers as it helps them communicate with locals, understand different cultures, and navigate unfamiliar environments. While some may argue that English is the universal language and that it's unnecessary to learn another language, being able to speak the local language opens up doors to unique experiences that would otherwise be inaccessible.

For example, if you're traveling in France, knowing French will allow you to have conversations with locals about their culture, history, and way of life. It will also enable you to read menus at restaurants or order food at markets without having to rely on someone else's translation skills.

Exposure to new languages enhances learners' knowledge and experience by providing them with insights into different ways of thinking, communicating, and understanding the world around us. When we learn a new language, we gain access not only to its vocabulary but also to its idioms, grammar rules, social norms, and cultural practices.

Moreover, exposure to multiple languages can improve cognitive abilities such as memory retention, problem-solving skills, and creativity levels while boosting self-esteem levels. Studies show that bilingual children tend to perform better on standardized tests than monolingual children.

What’s the Best Age to Start Worldschooling?

Best age to start worldschooling

Worldschooling is a great way of educating children while traveling. It provides an opportunity for children to learn about different cultures, languages, and environments. But what is the best age to start worldschooling? The answer is that there is no specific age that's perfect for starting worldschooling. It depends on the individual child and family.

Some families start when their children are very young, even as young as toddlers. Others wait until their children are teenagers before embarking on this journey. However, most families tend to start when their children are in elementary school or early middle school.

How to get started with worldschooling

If you're interested in worldschooling your child, here are some tips on how to get started:

1. Research – Look up different destinations and find out what they offer in terms of education and experiences for your child.
2. Plan – Make a plan that includes where you want to go, how long you want to stay there, and what activities you will do while there.
3. Budget – Create a budget that takes into account all expenses associated with traveling and schooling.
4. Curriculum – Choose a curriculum that works well for your child's learning style and goals.
5. Connect with other worldschoolers – Join online groups or attend conferences where you can connect with other families who have experience with worldschooling.

How to start worldschooling on a budget

Worldschooling doesn't have to be expensive; it can be done on a budget too! Here are some tips:

1. Travel during off-peak seasons – This will help save money on flights, accommodations, and activities.
2. Use home-sharing platforms – Consider staying in apartments or homes instead of hotels; platforms like Airbnb can provide affordable options.
3. Cook meals at home – Eating out can be expensive, so consider cooking meals at home to save money.
4. Take advantage of free activities – Many destinations offer free museums, parks, and other activities that can be educational and fun.
5. Use online resources – There are many online resources available for homeschooling, such as Khan Academy and Scholastic, which are free or low-cost.

Is World Schooling the Same as Unschooling?

What is Unschooling?

Unschooling is a type of homeschooling that emphasizes child-led learning without a set curriculum. This means that instead of following a structured program, children are free to explore their interests and learn in a way that suits them best. Unschooling allows children to pursue their passions and develop skills at their own pace, without being held back by traditional classroom constraints.

Similarities between World Schooling and Unschooling

While there are differences between world schooling and unschooling, they also share similarities. Both approaches prioritize personalized learning over standardized curriculums. They allow children to follow their passions and interests while encouraging curiosity and exploration.

World schooling also shares some similarities with homeschooling in terms of flexibility. Both allow families to customize their approach based on the needs of the child.

Challenges with World Schooling and Unschooling

One challenge with both world schooling and unschooling is adapting to your child's learning style and interests. As parents, we may have our own ideas about what our kids should be learning or how they should be spending their time. But if we want our children to truly thrive in their education, we need to be willing to let go of our preconceived notions and allow them to lead the way.

FAQs

How do I budget for a World Schooling Lifestyle?

You can start by creating a list of expenses including accommodation costs, transportation costs between destinations as well as food costs, etc., then research ways to reduce these expenses such as house sitting or volunteering in exchange for accommodation.

Can I still work while World Schooling?

Yes! There are many remote work opportunities available today which makes it easier to balance work with travel through worldschooling.

What’s the best age to start World Schooling?

There is no specific age for starting world schooling, but it is recommended to start early in life as it exposes children to languages and different cultures.

How do I get started with World Schooling?

Start by researching resources online, creating a budget, and planning your itinerary. You can also connect with other world-schooling families for advice and inspiration.

Is World Schooling the same as Homeschooling?

While both involve education outside of traditional school settings, world schooling focuses on learning through travel and cultural experiences while homeschooling can be done from home or within a community setting.

What are the benefits of learning new languages through World Schooling?

Learning new languages through world schooling can help children learn faster while also broadening their perspective on different cultures.

How do I ensure my child stays on track with their education during World Schooling?

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