Children Ski & Snowboard Equipment & Lessons
Just because you have a baby does not mean you are unable to still go skiing or snowboarding. Most ski resorts have day care and depending upon the child's age, have age appropriate indoor and snow play activities. While children can be ready to ski once they are stable walking and taking instructions, most resorts begin ski and snowboard lessons at 3 years of age or older.
Once they learn to ski or snowboard, riding with your child down the slopes together and sharing their experience is one of the best parts of being a parent. Especially when you see the excitement in your child's smile and eyes as they learn and have a strong desire to show you what they have learned and even ski along with them. Have fun, ski/snowboard safe! J. DeCarli |
Clothing & Basic Layers
Proper clothing is necessary to keep your child warm and safe. They will be much happier as well with proper three layers of clothing (Learn more about layering basics):
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Additional Clothing & Equipment
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Ski & Snowboard Equipment
It is best to rent skis or snowboard for the first several times. It is also best to rent at the ski resort, so in case boots are too tight or loose they can be changes easily. Most ski resorts will have packages for rentals and lessons. Ski rentals include skis and poles, but can include helmet. Snowboard rentals include snowboard and boots, and can also include helmet. Renting is the best since the child outgrows boots quickly. However if you plan on going more than several times in a season, compare daily rental prices at the resort compared to leasing for the season either at the resort or at a local ski or snowboard shop. Often leasing works well, especially after the child has gone several times, enjoys skiing or snowboarding and you know the proper sizes for their ski/snowboard and boots. This is helpful as well because you do not have to wait in rental lines and if often less expensive.
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Lessons
With lessons, it helps build self confidence and they also get to ski with other children their own age. But nevertheless make sure the instructor is a qualified instructor. Many ski resorts have great ski packages for various ages as young as 3-years of age.
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Energy & Hydration
Before you start the day with your child and especially before lessons make sure you have a healthy meal. It is always fun to make this part of the activity. Once you check in, you have have breakfast at the restaurant at the resort of a meal they enjoy with hot chocolate and make it a fun experience. Generally, depending if you keep the child full or half day, but full day generally includes lunch and proper hydration. Once your child starts skiing or snowboarding with you make sure they have proper energy snacks and hydration.