Prepare a tween (ages 10 to 13) for supervised international travel in four steps: practice independence, handle logistics, check emotional readiness, and pick the right program.
| Step | What to do |
|---|---|
| Practice independence | Overnight stays away, navigating new places, solving small problems alone |
| Logistics | A valid passport, memorized emergency contacts, basic travel protocols |
| Emotional readiness | Can the tween handle mild homesickness and ask an adult for help? |
| Program selection | Choose a program built for first-time, younger travelers with tighter ratios |
What to remember about preparing a tween to travel
Readiness is built before the trip. A tween who has handled sleepovers and small problems independently, in a program designed for their age, is set up to do well.