This is a guest blog post from our good friends at FIS SnowKidz.
FIS SnowKidz is the first phase of the Bring Children to the Snow campaign. It is a unique program and communications platform that enables organisers around the world to share and showcase their events to bring children to the snow.
Kids getting into skiing can be stress free and fun!
Here are some tips for parents wishing for their kids to fall in love with skiing
Videos, seeing the sport on TV, a chance meeting with a professional athlete, a story from a family member, an invitation from a friend, or social media.
These are just some of the numerous inspirations for parents wanting to get their children into skiing.
The good news is that skiing is a sport which you do not need to sit on the sidelines while your kids have all the fun.
Start Young
The love for skiing starts young.
In some cases as young as 2 – 3 years of age. Therefore as a parent do not be afraid to do a family trip and bring your toddler or baby to the snow.
A trip doesn’t necessarily need to involve skiing, simply touching snow for the first time can start the connection and initiate the love for snow.
Having your child playing in the snow from as early as possible will help them associate fun with snow!
2. Visit a family friendly resort
One would naturally think that all ski resorts cater to families. This unfortunately is not the case.
When selecting a resort for your family vacation be sure to look out of items such as family discounts on lift passes e.g. kids ski free if parents purchase a lift pass of the same duration.
Additionally check if the resort has a designated kids area for learning to ski.
Some resorts in Europe even go so far as to offer free use of the “magic carpet” lift so parents can be with their kids.
From Dinoski team! Check out this blog post for some of our favourite family friendly ski resorts.
A great family friendly ski resort can make a big difference to your holiday.
3. Sign up for lessons or a programme
Lessons are a great way for kids to learn quickly and make new friends.
Most ski schools will begin lessons at age 5 and up. If your child has already caught the “skiing bug” you may want to look into signing them up for a programme.
Programmes are great substitutes for day care and during school holidays. To check if your resort has a programme simply visit any ski school and inquire.
Practice makes perfect for kids and skiing! Help them get the right fundamentals in place.
4. School trips rock
If you are lucky enough where your child’s school organises an annual ski trip, don’t delay sign the waiver and let them go.
If your school does not have a ski trip and you wish they did, pitch the idea at your next parents meeting.
Alternatively you can send an email to snowkidz@fisski.com and they will happily guide you in right direction.
A school ski trip could make a big difference for your child!
5. Join a club
You wouldn’t think it but ski clubs are prevalent.
Most clubs are run by local people, run regular affordable trips to the snow and a good place to get cheap second hand skis for your kids.
PRO TIP: Not all clubs are focus on competition. “Social ski clubs” do exist and in most cases they do both.
Social ski clubs could help your child fall in love with skiing.
6. Keep riding together & don’t be offended if they want to ride with friends
There comes a time in every kids life when they want to do activities with just their friends.
Skiing is no exception.
The good news is that skiing is a sport you can do with or without your kids. In most cases if they see you skiing they will want to come to.
Good luck and let us know how your next family ski trip goes by tagging us on Instagram with @dinoskiwear! And a reminder to check out all the great work our friends at FIS SnowKidz are up to.
