Education on the Road: Enriching the Minds of Globetrotting Kids
When sharing our plans of embarking on a world trip with our three children, it's not uncommon for people to inquire about education. Many wonder how we will manage to provide an education while on the road and if our children will receive proper instruction. In this article, we aim to address these questions and shed light on how we try to ensure our children continue to learn and grow while embracing the wonders of travel.
First of all we plan to set a routine because habits make life easier: we will dedicate the morning time each day, preferably in the morning before or after breakfast, for focused learning. We believe that this routine will help Laila, Emmet & Malik develop a sense of structure and discipline, making it easier for them to adapt to learning while on the go. They are already used to school work in the morning so we hope to continue this routine but we will not sit on chairs for 5 or 6 hours but for maybe 1-2 hours. Hopefully our daily plans of exploring different destinations afterwards will keep them motivated to concentratedly work through the material each day.
Having identified the core subjects to be Maths, German and English, we will devote the majority of our learning time to these subjects. Our children's aim to meet the German school year requirements serves as a strong motivation for their academic progress. By defining clear goals and expectations, we create a sense of purpose and maintain their focus throughout the journey. These goals will not only help them integrate seamlessly with their friends upon return but also ensure that they continue to grow academically.
In addition to our regular curriculum, we have devised a plan to teach subjects such as Biology, Geography and History in a way that is tailored to the different destinations we will be visiting. By incorporating educational opportunities that align with our travel locations, we aim to maximize the value of our experiences. For instance, during our time in Nepal, we plan to discuss the human body's oxygen cycle, specifically relating it to the effects of high altitude. This connection will help our children grasp the scientific concepts behind altitude and its impact on the body. Similarly, we have conducted research on local attractions in India, historical sites in Africa and cultural landmarks in South Korea that offer significant educational value. We firmly believe that incorporating visits to these sites will not only enrich our children's understanding of various subjects but also provide them with a deeper appreciation for sciences, history and other relevant topics. These real-life experiences will bring the subjects to life and foster a greater sense of connection to the world around them.
Although we are committed to providing daily education, regardless of whether it's a weekday or weekend, we believe it's important to give the children a break on their birthdays. We consider special occasions as opportunities for celebration and creating cherished memories. On these specific days, we plan to prioritize the children's wishes and let them choose how they would like to spend their birthdays. For instance, Emmet has expressed his desire to visit Disneyland in Tokyo, and we are open to fulfilling his wish. We understand that these experiences can be enriching and provide unique opportunities for fun and enjoyment. While education remains a priority in our daily lives, we recognize the significance of creating space for special occasions and allowing the children to indulge in activities that bring them joy on their birthdays.
From our Instagram friends we have discovered that there are abundant opportunities for hands-on learning experiences. During our visit to Sri Lanka for example, we are considering taking part in a local art class. We believe that actively seeking out interactive activities and engaging in experiments can make learning more tangible and memorable, going beyond the confines of textbooks alone.
Exploring local museums, actively participating in workshops and engaging in community-based projects that promote practical knowledge and cultural understanding are some of the ways we plan to encourage our children to connect with the world around them. We believe that immersing ourselves in these experiences will provide valuable educational benefits. Furthermore, if we're being completely honest, this is what travel is all about, isn't it? It's about embracing new cultures, broadening horizons and gaining a deeper understanding of the world we live in.
When it comes to technology, there is a wide range of educational apps, websites, and online courses available to enhance your children's learning experience. To supplement their education, we have provided each child with their own iPad. Laila, Emmet, and Malik have become familiar with platforms like "Anton" and "Antolin" because these are commonly used by their German schools.
For instance, after completing a math task, the children are rewarded with stars that can be used to unlock puzzles or educational games, adding an element of fun and making the learning process more engaging and effective. Similarly, when reading books, online quizzes are available to assess the children's comprehension and ensure they understood what they have read.
However, we acknowledge that reliable internet access is not always guaranteed. Therefore, we consider these resources as supplementary materials rather than relying on them as the primary source of education. We believe that when we do have internet access, it is more important to seize the opportunity to connect with family and friends at home, fostering social interactions and strengthening relationships.
In conclusion, managing school work while journeying around the world with children requires careful planning, a proactive mindset and flexibility. By establishing a routine and focusing on core subjects, tailoring learning to your destinations, embracing hands-on experiences, engaging with online communities, utilizing technology and celebrating special occasions, we believe, you can provide your children with a well-rounded education while creating unforgettable memories. Embracing the incredible learning opportunities that come with travel not only allows your children to explore different cultures but also empowers them to become global citizens who appreciate and understand the world around them. With the right approach, embarking on a journey around the world can be a transformative educational experience for your entire family.
