Fun and Safe Family Ski Vacation for Kids

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Skiing can be one of the most exhilarating ways to enjoy winter, and sharing this passion with your kids will give you family memories you’ll always treasure. As an avid skiier, I’ve always been excited about introducing young adventurers to the slopes. But experience has taught me that safety has to be a top priority for a successful family ski trip.

Here are my top tips for keeping your family of “beginners” safe on the slopes:

First, select a family-friendly ski resort with plenty of bunny slopes, zones specifically for kids, and a well-organized ski school appropriate for all ages and skill levels. If the resort has on-site childcare or enclosed playgrounds, it can be a godsend if the little ones need a time-out and the rest of the family wants to keep skiing. Look into all kinds of family ski packages, with many resorts offering all-inclusive deals for lift tickets, rentals, and lessons for the kids. 

Next - prioritize the quality of your equipment. Make sure they’re safe and that they fit perfectly. Everyone has to wear a helmet - this is not optional. Everyone should also have warm, waterproof inner layer, well-fitting waterproof gloves, and ski goggles. Label all the gear to make this part smoother. Gearing up with kids can get chaotic and ruin a morning before you even see the slopes - so make sure you’ve done a dress rehearsal with all the gear. Pack extra gloves and socks in case some are lost on the slopes, or they just need a dry replacement. It’s also wise to pack a bag with snacks, water, sunscreen, and whatever else you might need to keep the day running smoothly.

Remember that your kids' first day on skis is about developing confidence, and nothing else. Start them on gentle, beginner slopes. Don’t rush them if they don’t feel ready. Praise their improvements as they master the magic carpet or make their first turn. Schedule short blocks of training with plenty of time in between to rest and recover. Some hot cocoa by the fire on your first day is always a welcome treat, and makes a great memory. 

Most parents think they can handle the ski instruction, and many can. But remember that the professional instructors on the hill are trained to engage and instruct kids safely and make sure they have a good experience. Plus, it’s great to have another grow-up providing guidance in these new situations - ones without parental bias. Be aware that ski schools book up quickly - reserve your spot well in advance, ideally as soon as book as your vacation. 

Before you let your kids hit the slopes on their own, make sure they know all the basic safety rules of the slopes: yield to downhill skiers, don't stop in busy areas, and how to get help if they're lost or injured. Give your kids a whistle to wear around their necks in case they need to call for help. Also, make sure everyone in the family knows where the meeting point is, in case someone gets separated.

The slopes can be exhausting and tempers can flare, especially with kids who see everyone having a great time while all they do is fall. Build in some things to make it a fun, positive experience for them, helping them push through the growing pains and find a love for skiing. Take a pause on the slopes to take photos and tumble around in the snow together. A lot of resorts have sledding areas, which can be a blast for kids who are still struggling with their ski legs. With every day on the slopes having ups and downs, make sure and end the day on a high note. Remember that the tantrums are part of the trip - be flexible, keep a positive attitude, and remind yourself that even the less-than-perfect moments make great stories later. 

Introducing your kids to skiing can be one of the most rewarding experiences for any family. A family ski vacation is a great tradition, and with some effective planning and a lot of patience, it can be at least 60% fun. So bundle up, hit the slopes, and savour every moment!

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