The Hidden Needs of Paradise: Supporting Neurodivergent Children and Special Education Needs in Bali

Learning in Bali

When we picture Bali, we often think of surfboards, sunsets, and spirituality. But beyond the rice fields and beach clubs, there are families quietly navigating a very different reality - raising neurodivergent children or children with special education needs (SEN) in a place where support can be hard to find.

As an educator and specialist working with children with autism, ADHD, speech and language delays and learning challenges, I’ve met families - both local and expat - who feel isolated, overwhelmed, or simply unsure where to begin. Despite Bali's vibrant and growing community, conversations around special needs are often avoided or misunderstood.

This blog post is written in collaboration with One Year in Bali, a platform dedicated to helping families find clarity, connection, and support when relocating to the island. As trusted relocation agents and experts, One Year in Bali assists families in navigating the complexities of moving and settling into Bali - offering guidance not only on housing and schools, but also on wellness, lifestyle, and essential services. We believe that discussing learning differences, neurodiversity and support services openly is a necessary step in creating a more inclusive Bali - for locals and newcomers alike.

What Does the Current Landscape Look Like?

While Bali offers a handful of international schools and private therapy centers, there is still a significant gap in services for children with additional needs. One of the biggest barriers is access to diagnosis. There are not enough local regulations or systems in place to ensure children get properly assessed. Often, families are told to leave the island entirely just to see a qualified developmental pediatrician or clinical psychologist who can make a formal diagnosis. This delay can prevent children from receiving timely support and puts added stress on parents who are already doing their best.

Additionally, many schools lack trained special education staff, and even when they want to help, they often don’t know how to create or implement individualized plans. Cultural stigma and unfamiliarity with terms like ADHD or autism can make families feel judged or ignored, rather than supported.

What Do neurodivergent or SEN Children Need?

Every child deserves to feel seen, supported, and successful. Children with SEN benefit from:

• Early identification of their learning profile

• Evidence-based tools and methods (TEACCH, PECS, visual schedules, AAC, etc.)

• Predictable routines and calm environments

• Educators and caregivers who understand their unique needs

• Communication support (signs, speech strategies, eye gaze, etc.)

At Empower Your Kid, we work 1:1 and in small groups using goal-driven, research-backed strategies to help children thrive academically and emotionally, whether it’s learning through play, developing speech or building emotional regulation.

What Are Families Struggling With?

From my experience, parents face:

• Emotional fatigue and decision overwhelm

• Little guidance from schools or unclear communication

• Feeling like they’re the only ones dealing with these challenges

• A lack of trustworthy professionals who specialize in neurodiversity

• The pressure of figuring it all out while adjusting to life in a new country

Some families have even shared that they considered leaving Bali because they couldn’t find appropriate support.

But it doesn't have to be this way.

The Good News: Support Is Growing

Through personalized learning support, parent consultations, and educator guidance, more and more families are finding what works for their children. In our learning space in Cemagi, we:

• Use visuals, songs, and games to support communication

• Work on behavior, focus, and self-regulation

• Coach parents to bring strategies into daily routines

• Collaborate with schools to create consistent support plans

And we're not alone. With platforms like One Year in Bali, awareness is growing, and families are finding each other. There's a rising demand for more inclusive learning spaces, and a shared belief that Bali can be more than a paradise - it can be a place where every child belongs.

You Are Not Alone

Supporting SEN - Children

If you’re a parent, teacher, or school leader in Bali wondering how to better support children with learning or developmental challenges, let’s talk. I believe every child deserves to feel proud of their progress - no matter where they live.

Whether you’re just starting your Bali journey or have been here for years, know that there is help available. From assessments to daily strategies, from emotional support to hands-on tools you don’t have to do this alone.

Reach out for consultations, workshops, or support at: www.empoweryourkid.com

Together, we can build a more inclusive Bali, one small step at a time. 🌈

Written by Sophie Barwa, Founder of Empower Your Kid, in collaboration with One Year in Bali