Yeah, that doesn't work in a lot of countries. I can be assertive all I want, but if I pull my child out of school without permission, I risk getting a call from the local child protection services and/or getting fined.
In the Netherlands (and other countries), you have something called "leerplicht" or obligatory education law, and have to ask the school for permission.
The school is allowed to make an exemption for a maximum of 10 days, above that you need to contact the school attendance officer. This can only be provided if the reason falls under some specific types.
If you want to take your children on a holiday outside the national holidays, you have to provide proof that this only a possibility during term time.
Parents don't always know best. There are countries where the child's right to education is seen as higher than the parent's right to do what they think is right.
