Planning Your Visit
Prepare Them Ahead of Time
You can help them to be physically and mentally ready before you get to the resort. Talk about skiing/snowboarding to help get them excited, and discuss how they feel about trying something new. With younger kids, practice dressing up in snow gear and make time for snow or outdoor play. The more familiarity they can gain with the experience before they arrive, the more comfortable they will feel when they are here!
Consider the Best Learning Experience for Your Child
You know best whether your kids learn better with you, or without you! Our advice is to always leave the hard work to our professional instructors who can leverage our kids facilities and teaching spaces to craft a kids specific experience. Many parents enroll their kids in lessons while they get some adult time, or take lessons themselves, and then connect afterwards for some snow time together. Want to learn as a family? A private lesson is the way to go as the instructor will tailor the experience around your goals!
Rent Ski/Snowboard Equipment
Buying equipment is a commitment and kids grow quickly. Renting at the resort ensures that your kids get equipment that is correctly maintained, fits right and can be adjusted or replaced if something doesn't work. If you sign up for a group lesson, rental equipment can be included at a discount. Ask about the possibility of picking up your gear the day before if you are nearby and many schools allow you to keep the equipment after the lesson for the remainder of the day if your child is not ready to stop!
Before You Arrive
Dress Them Right
Whether you buy or borrow, make sure all clothes and gear fits well, is in good condition and is waterproof. Avoid cotton or wool gloves or gaiters as these become wet and cold, and hand/foot warmers can really help on colder days. Thick or multiple socks do not always help! A single pair of long, athletic or ski socks that go up to just below the knee to avoid bare skin, wrinkles or constriction is a must. Discomfort in the feet, hands and face due is a number one cause for sad campers.
Fuel Them for Success
Skiing or snowboarding, at altitude in the cold weather requires a lot of calories and hydration. Ensure they eat a hearty breakfast and take regular snack and water breaks throughout the day. Don't forget to plan a snack or food for the return journey also.
Arrive Early and Plan Your Parking
Easier said than done, but allow more time than you think you need for driving, parking, walking, navigating etc. Rushing to get to a lesson time isn't fun for anyone, and generally, the earlier you arrive the fewer lines you need to contend with when getting ready. When you get here, keep an eye out for friendly staff who are more than happy to assist you in getting where you need to go. Travelling with another adult? Look or ask for Drop Off areas close to the base lodges where one adult can jump out with the kids while the other parks.
At the Resort
Plan Your Bathroom Breaks
Going to the bathroom in ski gear is an adventure in itself. Be strategic about planning your bathroom breaks and make sure than when one goes, everyone at least tries!
Manage Your Expectations
Kids learn at different rates, and younger kids especially can take time to become independent stopping and turning. The important thing is to focus on their enjoyment of the sport, over their progression. They will improve quickly with practice, and be passing you on the slopes before you know it! But don't expect too much too soon.
Set EmergencyMeeting Places
When skiing or snowboarding with kids, be sure to first arrange an easy to find meeting place if you get separated, such and the bottom of a particular run or chairlift.
Make Sure Your Child Knows When to Stop Skiing
For example, if the clothing layer next to their skin stays wet and they're chilled, if they're injured, have a problem with equipment or even if they're simply worn out. Educate them that it's alright to stop before the end of the day and breaks are fun.
Don't Forget Your Takeaways!
Lastly, be sure to take away memories and information! Don't miss a photo or video opportunity to help capture the moment. If your child took a lesson, take the time to ask your instructor at pick-up time about what they should practice and anything you can do at home to build muscle memory or to help prep them for next time!
