10 Tips for Skiing with Kids

Hey there ski lovers and welcome to my post where we will check out my 10 tips for skiing with kids this year. Skiing with kids can be a fun and memorable experience for the whole family. However, it can also be challenging, especially if you’re not prepared.

Whether your kids are seasoned skiers or new to the sport, there are several things you can do to ensure a successful and enjoyable ski trip. So for those of you looking to take on the mountain with the little ones in tow, let’s have a look at my 10 tips to make things a little easier below.

So as above, let’s check out some tips to make your family ski trip more enjoyable:

1. Choose the best time for skiing

Though it may seem simple, the first thing you should consider the optimal time to ski with your young ones. To have plenty of room to maneuver on the mountain and avoid long lineups, beginners may want to avoid busy weekends and holiday periods.

Also if you can, look for a time when the weather is mild and comfortable for your child. Avoid times when the weather is extremely cold, windy or wet as this can be uncomfortable and potentially dangerous for children.

Ultimately, the ideal ski seasons for you can coincide with school breaks however these times do tend to be a little busier.

2. Plan ahead

Planning ahead is essential when skiing with kids. There are many details to consider, from gear and equipment to lessons and accommodations. We will discuss a lot of this in further detail below however here are some things to consider when planning your ski trip with kids:

1. Gear and Equipment: Make sure you have all the gear and equipment your child needs for skiing including skis, boots, poles, helmets and goggles. Check that the gear fits properly and is appropriate for your child’s size and ability level. If you need to rent gear, make sure to reserve it in advance to avoid lines and ensure availability.
2. Lessons: Reserve lessons in advance to ensure availability and to allow time for any necessary paperwork or medical forms.
3. Accommodations: Choose accommodations that are family-friendly and convenient for skiing. Look for hotels or resorts that offer amenities like on-site restaurants, hot tubs, and ski-in/ski-out access. Consider booking a room with a kitchenette or mini-fridge so you can store snacks and drinks.
4. Transportation: Plan ahead for transportation to and from the ski resort. If you’re driving, make sure your car is equipped for winter driving conditions and plan for extra travel time. If you’re flying, consider booking a shuttle or car service to transport you and your family to the resort.
5. Weather: Keep an eye on the weather forecast leading up to your trip. This can help you pack appropriately and plan for any potential weather-related delays or cancellations.

By planning ahead, you can help ensure that your ski trip with kids goes smoothly and is enjoyable for everyone.

3. Choose the right resort

One of the most crucial pieces of advice for parents who want to take their kids skiing is to choose a resort that caters to families. The more amenities the resort provides for families, the simpler it will be for you to have a good time. Additionally, many ski areas provide free skiing to kids with a paying adult as well.

First, consider the ski school options. Most ski resorts offer children’s ski schools where your kids can receive lessons from experienced instructors who know how to work with kids. Next, check out the terrain with resorts that have terrain suitable for children, such as beginner slopes with gentle inclines and wide-open spaces.

Finally, consider the amenities at the resort. Look for resorts that offer other family-friendly amenities such as play areas, tubing hills and magic carpets. These can provide a break from skiing and keep your kids entertained and engaged throughout the day. And of course you will need convenient access to food and drinks, restrooms and first aid facilities too.

Check out my: Top 10 Ski Resorts in the United States

4. Dress them appropriately

Dressing appropriately for skiing is essential, especially when skiing with kids. Being comfortable and warm on the slopes can make all the difference between a fun day and a miserable one. Here are some tips for dressing your kids appropriately for skiing:

1. Layering: Dressing in layers is important because it allows you to adjust your child’s clothing according to the changing weather conditions. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, which will help keep your child dry and comfortable then add a mid-layer, such as a fleece or sweater for warmth. Finally, top it off with a waterproof and breathable outer layer, like a ski jacket and pants.
2. Warm Accessories: Accessories are just as important as clothing when it comes to keeping your child warm on the slopes. A warm hat or helmet liner is essential for keeping heat from escaping through the head. Gloves or mittens should also be warm and waterproof to protect little hands from the cold and wet snow. Goggles or sunglasses are necessary to protect eyes from the bright sun and wind.
3. Sun Protection: Even on cloudy days, the sun’s rays can be intense on the slopes. Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to any exposed skin, including the face and lips. Bring lip balm with SPF to prevent chapped lips, which can be a common problem when skiing. Also, consider purchasing ski gear with built-in sun protection.
4. Hand Warmers: Hand warmers are a great addition to your child’s ski gear. They can provide extra warmth and comfort on cold days. Look for hand warmers that are safe for children and easy to use.

But be careful not to overdo it! Make sure to dress your children in layers just like you would, as overdressing them can be just as problematic as underdressing them.

5. Sign-up them up for ski lessons

Access to excellent ski instruction is one advantage of family-friendly ski resorts. Depending on where you stay, you might have access to a ski camp with free kid-specific lessons or you can pick between the group and private courses based on the their age. 

Ski lessons can help your child develop their skiing skills at their own pace and in most cases, ski instructors are trained to work with children of different ages and ability levels, so your child can receive personalized attention and instruction. They are also a great way for kids to meet other kids who share their interests and ski instructors often group children of similar ages and abilities, which can help your child make new friends and have fun on the slopes.

And the other main advantage of course is some child free time for you to ski in peace whilst they are in their lessons as well.

6. Keep them hydrated and fed

Staying hydrated and well-fed is essential when skiing with kids as the activity in itself can be physically demanding and dehydrating, especially for children who may not be used to the altitude or the cold. Here are some tips for keeping your kids hydrated and fed on the slopes:

1. Water: Encourage your child to drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if they don’t feel thirsty. Dehydration can cause headaches, fatigue and dizziness which can be dangerous on the slopes. Pack a reusable water bottle and make sure to refill it regularly.
2. Snacks: Pack healthy and energy-boosting snacks that your child can eat throughout the day. Trail mix, granola bars, fruit and sandwiches are all good options. Avoid sugary or processed snacks, which can cause crashes and lead to hunger pangs.
3. Lunch: Plan to take a break for lunch at a mountain restaurant or lodge. Many resorts offer kid-friendly menus and it’s a great opportunity to rest, refuel and warm up. If your child has any dietary restrictions or allergies, be sure to plan accordingly.
4. Hot Drinks: On cold days, hot drinks like hot chocolate or tea can provide warmth and comfort. Many mountain restaurants offer hot drinks, or you can bring your own in a thermos.

Always pack more food and water than you think you’ll need and remember to take breaks throughout the day and listen to your child’s needs. If your child is hungry or thirsty, take a break and give them some food or water.

7. Let them take breaks

This is probably just a follow on from above however in terms of child comfort, I have added it separately. In general, you should also include time for a few breaks while you are skiing with your kids. If your kids are exhausted, try not to worry about deviating too much from the program because skiing requires a lot of energy and will be cold.

Additionally, as with adults, accidents and injuries are more likely to occur when the child is tired. Schedule many breaks in advance and don’t count on them lasting the entire day.

Fortunately, there are many other things to do if you’re staying at a ski resort with lots of facilities for kids. Bring them in for hot chocolate, take a moment to unwind in your room or set aside time for them to construct a snowman or play in the children’s areas.

8. Use a Ski Harness

A ski harness is a tool that can be used to help young children learn to ski and feel more secure on the slopes. It’s essentially a type of leash that attaches to the child’s ski boots and the parent’s ski poles or harness. Here are some things to consider when using a ski harness:

1. Age and Ability Level: Ski harnesses are best suited for young children who are new to skiing or are still developing their skills. As children become more comfortable and confident on the slopes, they may no longer need a harness.
2. Proper Fit: Make sure the harness fits properly and is adjusted to the child’s size. The harness should be snug but not too tight, and the child should be able to move their arms and legs freely.
3. Safety Considerations: It’s important to use a ski harness safely and responsibly. Never leave your child unattended while using a harness and always keep the harness slack to avoid jerking or pulling on the child. Be aware of your surroundings and keep a safe distance from other skiers.
4. Gradual Release: As your child becomes more comfortable on the slopes, gradually release the harness to allow them more freedom and independence. Eventually, they may no longer need the harness at all.
5. Practice: Practice using the harness before hitting the slopes. This can help your child get used to the feeling of being attached to you and can help you get comfortable with controlling their movements.

it is important to note however that whilst a ski harness can be a helpful tool for young children learning to ski, it’s not a substitute for proper ski instruction. As above consider enrolling your child in ski lessons, even if you plan to use a harness.

9. Use the buddy system

Using the buddy system is another option and can be an important safety measure when skiing with kids. Skiing can be dangerous and having a buddy can help ensure that your child is safe and accounted for on the slopes. Encourage your child to ski with a friend or sibling who is of a similar age and ability level as this of course can make skiing more fun and enjoyable for both.

Additionally, choose several meeting points throughout the day where your child and their buddy can regroup and check in with each other. These meeting points should be easy to find and remember. And finally here, it’s important to communicate with your child and their buddy throughout the day and to establish clear guidelines for staying together and checking in with each other. With the buddy system, your child can have a fun and safe skiing experience with their friends or siblings.

10. Have fun!

One of my most vital and final tips for first-time skiers with kids is for you to unwind and take it all in. It’s okay if things don’t go exactly as expected. Any modifications from your plan should not be seen as a setback to your journey but rather as a new adventure. Think of your family’s first ski trip as an introduction, and don’t set the bar way too high.

Plan to complete any activity the following time if, for instance, you had something you wanted to accomplish but couldn’t fit in. After all, the objective is to make the kids feel at ease on the slopes, so they will be prepared to take on greater difficulties when you return.

And of course, HAVE FUN!

There you have it, my 10 practical and doable tips for skiing with your kids. I would be pleased to know how this article helped you, and as usual,  let me know of your experiences with them.

Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.

Until next time.

Have fun

Paul