Skiing with kids is a wonderful way to add some fun to the long winter months. Some people can’t wait to introduce their kids to this sport while others are more hesitant about hitting the slopes with little ones in tow. We’re here to give you 7 tips for first time skiing with kids before you book your first family ski trip and promise it will go more smoothly if you keep these tips in mind!
1. Talk About the Trip
Get kids excited about skiing well in advance of your vacation! Tell them about your experiences, show them photos and videos and let them know what to realistically expect on the trip. If you have ski gear, make sure to have them try everything on at home so they can get comfortable with it, and also so you can make sure you don’t need to buy anything that doesn’t fit well.
2. Find a Kid-Friendly Resort
Since it will be your first family trip, it’s even more important to do your research and find a family-friendly ski resort. The more the resort caters to families, the easier it will be for you to enjoy yourselves. Consider everything from the distance from home, the parking situation and the number of green trails available for beginners. The resort should definitely have a ski school that works with children, as well as activities for them outside of skiing. Lastly, if your kids are very young, you may want to find a place with childcare just in case your 4 year old refuses to ski once you get there!
3. Prepare Before the First Day
Don’t assume you’ll be getting to the resort and jumping right into the action, especially with little ones! If you won’t be bringing their ski gear, the day before you hit the slopes is a good time to get their rental equipment and have them practice walking in their boots and skis. This will also minimize the time you’ll be waiting in line if you try to do this in the morning. If your kids are hesitant, take them out to play in the snow or watch lessons that are being held the day before you take them out skiing to alleviate any worries.
4. Sign Up For Lessons
Make sure to reserve classes before you get to the resort and ensure there are no changes based on holiday weekends or school vacations. You can choose between group and private lessons but younger children will probably be happier in a group. You may be tempted to teach them on your own, but we highly believe it’s worth the investment to get a few half-day lessons from a professional instructor to teach them the basics. Let them know its your first time skiing with kids.
5. Dress for Comfort and Safety:
You want your kids to be safe while skiing so goggles and a well-fitting helmet are a must. Overdressing your kids can be just as much of a problem as under-dressing them, so make sure to have them dress in layers like you would yourself. You also want them to have well-insulated and waterproof mittens that don’t leave their wrists out in the cold. And hand warmers are always a good idea to keep them feeling toasty!
6. Take Breaks
Skiing takes a lot of energy and it will be cold, so if you push your kids too hard, you will definitely hear a lot of complaining. Prepare for this in advance by scheduling lots of breaks and not expecting them to last the whole day. Take them in for hot chocolate and schedule in playtime to build a snowman and just have unstructured fun. You want them to love skiing but you don’t need them to perfect their skills on the first trip.
7. Pack for all Situations
Pack a bag with snacks and water to have on hand. Filling snacks like nuts and granola bars are a great idea. Pack another bag with essentials like a first aid kit, tissues, and sunscreen for their faces. It’s also a good idea to have regular boots so everyone isn’t stuck in ski boots all day, especially if you anticipate any long walks to and from the slopes. Extra gloves are also a great idea!
Consider your first ski trip with the family to be an introduction and don’t expect too much from it. The goal is to get the kids out on the slopes and feeling comfortable so that when you visit again, they’ll be ready to take on more challenges. Invest in professional lessons and make the trip fun by including other activities like snow tubing, s’mores and ice skating if they are available. In no time at all, you’ll be skiing together as a family! Have any tips for other families and their first time skiing with kids? Let us know below.
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