Carol Tan, Rakcent Wong, and their son, Atlas, have defied the societal norm that having children means giving up on travel. Despite being told that they wouldn’t be able to travel anymore after having a child, this Singaporean family took a bold step to challenge these stereotypes. They decided to take a sabbatical from work to embark on a journey of “worldschooling” their 4-year-old child. The concept of ‘worldschooling’ involves turning the world into a classroom, providing children with immersive experiences and fostering their curiosity through travel across different countries.
Tan and Wong, who share a deep love for journeying together, decided that including Atlas in their travels was not only beneficial for him but also for their family bond. Their unconventional style of traveling, which included activities like motorcycling across Southeast Asia, had always been a source of growth and transformation for them as individuals and as a couple. They believed that by bringing Atlas along, they could continue to learn and grow together as a family.
The couple made a conscious decision to take this trip when Atlas was between the ages of 4 and 6, a time when he could absorb the world around him without the pressures of formal schooling. By saving and making strategic investments over five years, Tan and Wong managed to make their dream a reality. They chose to prioritize this unique educational experience over material possessions, proving that their journey was fueled by passion and dedication rather than wealth.
As they traveled through 23 countries, Tan and Wong incorporated three core principles in Atlas’ education: sparking curiosity, encouraging problem-solving, and fostering socialization through immersion. By emphasizing the importance of being curious, driven, and socially aware, the couple aimed to provide Atlas with a solid foundation for lifelong learning. They believed that by experiencing diverse environments and engaging with children from various backgrounds, Atlas would acquire valuable life skills that transcend traditional education.
Since the beginning of their worldschooling journey, Atlas has undergone significant personal growth. By exposing him to new experiences and environments, Tan and Wong have witnessed a remarkable transformation in their son. Atlas has become more open to trying new foods, asking detailed questions about the world around him, and displaying a genuine thirst for knowledge. Through play, interaction with local children, and observing his parents’ behaviors, Atlas has developed into a curious, adaptable, and socially adept individual.
As the family explores the possibility of extending their sabbatical to two years, they continue to embrace the endless possibilities that travel and worldschooling offer. Tan and Wong emphasize the vastness of the world and the limitless opportunities for growth and learning that come with it. By challenging societal norms and choosing a path less traveled, this family has demonstrated the power of unconventional education and the profound impact it can have on both children and parents alike.