Explorer International Kids' and Teens' Camps

Each activity has age-appropriate safety protocols, with staff certified in first aid supervising all water activities. Our Slovenian facility has emergency medical services just 3 minutes away, and our on-site first aider is available 24/7. For water activities, we use a 1:3 staff-to-camper ratio with specialised river safety training.

Homesickness (we call it Missing Home)  is common (80% of campers experience it), but our specialised approach for tweens makes it manageable. Our counselors use proven techniques like “worry stones” and scheduled check-ins rather than constant phone calls, which typically prolong adjustment. Most tweens adjust within 48 hours, and our house groups create immediate belonging. We’ll call you only if there’s a genuine concern, not just normal adjustment.

For most activities wee maintain an exceptional 1:4 staff-to-camper ratio for tweens (10-12). Each house has two counselors specifically trained in childhood development for this age group, plus activity specialists. For high-adventure activities like rafting, we increase to 1:3. All staff undergo rigorous background checks and complete 30+ hours of pre-camp training focused on tween social dynamics.

Camp Velenje serves balanced meals with familiar options alongside Slovenian specialties. We accommodate all dietary needs with advance notice – our kitchen staff creates individualised meal plans for allergies, religious requirements, or picky eaters. Each meal includes protein, fresh produce, and whole grains, with one “build-your-own” meal weekly (like pizza night). No camper has ever gone hungry – we work with families pre-arrival to ensure dietary needs are met.

We encourage letter writing as part of the camp experience (with stationery provided), which studies show reduces homesickness compared to digital communication. You’ll receive daily photo updates through our secure parent portal, and we’ll call you immediately for any concerns. Campers can send letters home daily which we scan and send to you. For true emergencies, our office is available 24/7, but we discourage regular phone calls as they typically increase homesickness.

Our tween program features age-appropriate adventures: rafting on calm river sections, introductory rock climbing with safety harnesses, nature scavenger hunts, and creative shelter-building. Activities focus on skill-building rather than extreme challenges, with our “I did it!” progression system that celebrates small achievements. Unlike teen programs, we include more structured free time and transition periods to help tweens adjust to camp independence.

Our approach focuses on positive reinforcement and natural consequences rather than punishment. With tweens, we use “problem-solving circles” where campers help find solutions, building social skills. For repeated issues, we contact parents to develop a joint strategy. Serious behavioral concerns are rare (less than 2% of campers), and our staff is trained in de-escalation techniques specific to this age group. We believe most “behavior issues” are actually unmet needs we can address together.

Absolutely. Our small-group structure and low staff ratios make us ideal for tweens who need extra support. Counselors receive specific training in recognizing anxiety signs and using calming techniques. We create “buddy systems” for social navigation and provide quiet spaces for overstimulated campers. Before camp, we’ll connect with you to develop individualized strategies that help your child succeed while still experiencing camp’s growth opportunities.

Our cabin groups create immediate community, with “connection games” designed specifically for tweens on day one. Counselors monitor social dynamics closely and intervene early if anyone is struggling to connect. We use structured icebreakers that feel natural (“find someone who…”) rather than forced. Last summer, 98% of parents reported their child formed meaningful friendships, with our staff facilitating genuine connections through shared activities rather than artificial social engineering.

We’ve designed our tween program around developmental needs: more structured free time, gentler transitions between activities, and skill-building that celebrates small achievements. Unlike camps that treat all kids the same, our “Explorer Path” adapts challenges to individual readiness. Our camp-site setting provides a homier environment than institutional camps, with staff who know each child’s name and preferences within 24 hours. Most importantly, we focus on building confidence through achievable challenges rather than extreme adventures.

We intentionally create diverse cohorts with representation from North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia. While campers based in Europe make up about 70% of our community (reflecting our Slovenia location), North Americans comprise 30%, with the remaining 30% from Asia, South America, Africa, and the Middle East. This intentional mix ensures no single nationality dominates, creating a truly global microcosm.

English serves as our common language, but we’ve found that shared activities break down barriers faster than vocabulary. Our staff uses visual demonstrations, gestures, and simple language to help newcomers adjust. Within 48 hours, campers develop their own “Explorer language” of shared phrases and non-verbal communication. Most importantly, laughter and play are universal – soccer games and campfire songs need no translation.