Our 3 Years at Malajah Playschool in Bali
(A Parent’s Review for Families Looking at Schools in Bali)
For expats, choosing from the many education options in Bali can sometimes feel overwhelming. There are so many excellent international schools in Bali, and each offers its own unique philosophy, facilities and educational style.
As our girls, (currently aged 3 and 5) approached school age, our biggest question was – where do we send our kids to school in Bali?
We were looking for a place that was nurturing, vibrant and incorporated outdoor learning. This aligned with the mindful education style that we knew would suit our girls. That’s how we discovered Malajah Playschool – among the many schools in Canggu, Bali – it was the frontrunner.
There are larger schools that are usually included in the best schools in Bali, but we found that Malajah Playschool offered a more personalised experience, embracing freedom in learning while teaching the fundamentals for later education. It also offered a welcoming and diverse community for kids and parents. We felt the school was of better value than some of the larger international schools in Bali, while still maintaining a high standard in educators, learning and facilities.
Why we have loved sending our kids to Malajah Playschool
Over the last 3 years at Malajah Playschool, we have loved seeing our girls blossom and develop their unique identities. They have been able to nurture their self-confidence and social skills while receiving a gentle introduction to structured learning while still prioritising play and emotional development. Our girls feel safe to express themselves at school and at home as vivacious little people, and Malajah Playschool has been a part of their character development.
Although the education is ‘play-based’- the school follows a structure in day-to-day learning, important for children of all ages. From morning circle time through to activities to support gross motor skills, the school day follows a clear plan. Literacy and numeracy skills are introduced through fun, hands-on activities rather than traditional classroom instruction. At the end of each day, the teachers send photos and videos via a WhatsApp group, and we are always excited to have an insight into the school day.
Our older daughter, at 5 years old, likes to sharpen her writing skills when she comes home, practising writing and reading words, and she even creates homework by herself, which she asks us to do alongside her! We love that she embraces learning and is developing her own unique strengths.
Not only has it been a joyful and safe space for the girls, we as parents have formed a community over the last 3 years, making connections with other Bali based families that we spend time with outside of school also. The cafe on site which is part of the Parklife Family Hub is a great spot for parents to enjoy a coffee or breakfast after school drop off, and parents who are digital nomads in Bali can work there between school drop off and pick up.
A Community-Centered Approach to Education in Bali
A full calendar of events keeps the year full of fun experiences and are designed to celebrate the unique way of life in Bali. From Nusantara Day where we celebrate with Indonesian Dance performances from the children, to parent’s sports days, intercultural days, Balinese and Indonesian Holidays, to Christmas and Halloween celebrations. Malajah Playschool creates a space for families to connect and celebrate life together while embracing the unique intercultural aspects of growing up in Bali. The events are a time of celebration and have a real spirit of joy, bringing an energetic vibe to the schooling experience.
The Teachers And Facilities At Malajah Playschool Bali
One of the things we love the most, is how the teachers greet each child energetically each day at the entrance, and handle the occasional tearful drop offs with so much care and presence. The teachers are always warm, patient and nurturing, something often hard to find at schools in Western countries.
The girls have made beautiful connections with their teachers, and when we attend parent teacher feedback sessions, it’s obvious that the teachers are diligently invested in the development of each child, identifying their strengths both in the classroom and the playground.
After the school day, it’s gratifying to see all of the kids enjoying playtime in the playground and the tropical gardens – it’s exactly what we envisioned for an early learning experience in Bali for our girls.
The classrooms and school yard are set up to encourage a natural flow throughout the day. We are always confident that the facilities are safe, hygienic and comfortable for the children. Students are also welcome to use the play area at Parklife after school, where there is a ball pit, big slides, large indoor jungle gym and fun after school activities with the afterschool kids club.
One of the Best Schools in Bali for Expat Families with Young Kids
If you’re new to Bali and reading through lists of the best schools in Bali for expat families, don’t overlook the smaller schools. Especially for early years education, a nurturing and homely setting like Malajah can make a huge difference to the learning experience of your little ones. We are so happy that we chose Malajah Playschool to shape our kids’ earliest experiences with learning. If you’re a parent researching top schools in Bali for foreigners, especially with younger children, we strongly recommend Malajah Playschool.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re moving here long-term or just spending a season in paradise, there are many incredible schools in Bali that will align with your values. For our family, Malajah Playschool has been one of the most rewarding parts of our time in Bali with kids.
If you’re still wondering where to send kids to school in Bali, check out our Bali Beginnings Schools Guide.
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