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Top Tips for Skiing With Children

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Top Tips for Skiing with Kids

Embarking on a family ski holiday can be a thrilling adventure, but ensuring it runs smoothly with children in tow can pose unique challenges. Here are our top tips to make your skiing experience with kids a resounding success:

1. Don’t Start Them Too Young

Most ski resorts offer fantastic crèche facilities and snow play areas, ideal for younger children who adore the snow but may not be ready for their first turns on skis. The enchanting mountain environment offers a magical experience for the whole family, whether everyone is skiing together or engaging in activities like tobogganing and building snowmen at the end of the day. Formal ski instruction usually begins around the ages of four or five, allowing children a gentle introduction to skiing. ESF in La Tania have a Piou Piou Club for Children from 3 years, where they can discover snow and skiing in complete safety and in a fun environment.

2. Book Ski Lessons in Advance

Research and book ski lessons in advance, considering ski schools near your accommodation. Look for schools offering instruction in English, and consider reputable options like New Generation in La Tania. Half-day or full-day lessons provide flexibility, allowing you to arrange childcare, explore after-ski clubs, or regroup for lunch. Pack snacks in your children’s coat pockets to maintain energy levels throughout the day.

3. Holiday in Multi-Family Groups

Consider joining forces with friends or family with children of similar ages for a joint mountain adventure. Booking an entire  self-catered ski chalet, provides lots of flexibility and an informal environment for everyone to relax in. Enrolling children in the same ski classes fosters camaraderie, and adults can opt for a private instructor or a guide to explore the mountain together.

4. Choose the Right Ski Resort

Make an informed decision when selecting a ski resort. Families with younger children may prefer a relaxed atmosphere with off-slope activities like tobogganing and swimming. Ensure the resort has gentle, beginner-friendly pistes and reputable English-speaking ski schools for those new to the snow.

5. Choose a Property with Childcare

For very young children, arrange childcare during your skiing holiday. Opt for professional childcare services or local crèches. This ensures your child is well taken care of, allowing you to enjoy the slopes or après-ski activities.

Additional Tips for a Smooth Skiing Experience:

Gear Preparation:

  • Invest in a quality child-sized ski helmet for safety.
  • Purchase a kid-sized balaclava for full head cover, warmth, and easy helmet use.
  • Lay out all gear on the morning of skiing and dress children in their base layer, then get dressed yourselves, and then as quickly as possible dress your children and head outside as soon as you can.  This avoids them getting too hot and bothered and hopefully there will be minimal whinging and once outside they will be distracted by the snow and hopefully excited to get on their skis!

Skiing Essentials:

  • Sign up for ski school initially for a positive introduction.
  • Invest in quality mittens and socks for warmth and comfort.

Fun on the Slopes:

  • Start without poles for young children learning to ski.
  • Bring games into the skiing experience, like I-spy on chair lifts.
  • Always protect children’s eyes and skin with goggles and sunscreen.

Dining Tips:

  • Plan an early lunch to avoid cold and hungry children.
  • Make reservations for mountain dining if required.
  • Pack snacks for a mid- morning and afternoon energy boosts.

Skiing with kids can be a fantastic experience with proper planning and consideration of their unique needs. These tips aim to ensure a memorable and enjoyable family ski holiday.