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 Re: Taking family skiing for first time-Need Advice
 
 11/18/2007 11:56:19 AM
Kjerstin
9 posts
www.skiwarehouse.com


Re: Taking family skiing for first time-Need Advice
While lannae an my comments are too delayed to truly address the first question it appears that many people have similar questions about heading to the slopes with kids.  Skiing is a great family outing or vacation. Kids really respond to being outdoors and there isn't a child in the world that doesn't love snow.  The first question to answer is whether your kids are ready for skis. This vary's from child to child and if one or more of your children are not ready for the slopes it does not necessarily rule out a ski vacation. Children show they are ready for the slopes simply by showing enthusiasm and willingness to participate. If they resist they may not understand what is being offered but it doesn't matter. If they don't want to do it they will make your life miserable and it may ruin skiing for them in the future - don't push. If they figure out that everyone else is going skiing they will join you eventually. There are pleanty of programs for non skiing kids at family oriented resorts that everyone will have fun. It is my suggestion to start all children in a lesson program for at least half the day. They will enjoy the independence, it will give you a chance to work on your own skills, get a feel for the mountain and have a bit of adult time. Regardless of the age of your children make sure to keep the days short so that they don't fall asleep in their dinner and there is time and energy to enjoy other aspects of the resort - the hot tub and pool for instance! Keep kids well hydrated when you travel as long car trips, plane rides and altitude can dehydrate them rapidly and may result in crabbiness, leathargy or even altitude illness. As far as gear goes you may rent, buy or lease equipment based on how often you plan to hit the slopes. If you are traveling it may be easier to just get the kids set up for the week when you get to the mountain to minimize baggage and hassle. Be sure that boots fit properly and do not size up to get more time out of them. If they are too big the child will not feel in control and will not enjoy their experince and may risk injury. Skis should remain short and the current shape ski models will really speed up the learning curve. Proper clothing is VERY important. Kids do not have the body awareness to realize that they are cold until it is too late which may result in over chilled children or even dangerous frostbite. Most department store snow jackets, pants and gloves simply will not cut it. They do not have high quality insualtion or wind protection that will withstand conditions on the slopes. Layer only with wool, silk or performance synthetic fabrics. Avoid cotton and the 'pretend' fleece at all costs. For a full list of what you need for the slopes check out my article at Ski and Snowboard Check List for the Slopes . The key to any successful vacation is to plan ahead and be organized so that you can be relaxed and simply enjoy being together as a family.
 12/10/2007 9:44:42 PM
FamilySki
1 posts


Re: Taking family skiing for first time-Need Advice

You can check out the reviews of some of the places you're considering at http://www.familyskiresorts.net.

 

Of the 3 you mention, you really have some good choices.  Pretty comparable slopes, I'd go with where the cheapest lodging is.

Also, don't forget alternate resorts like Gunnison.  Could save big bucks, plus still drive to Vail for a day.
 10/23/2008 10:29:34 PM
BEESON
1 posts


Re: Taking family skiing for first time-Need Advice

The BeeS,

You guys should consider putting on a little extra hairspray so that you can make it all the way out to Park City!  I swear the snow in Wasatch is way better than Colorado's, which is patchy at best.  So leave your rock skiis at home and pack an extra pair of camo coveralls cause' we're headin' to Utah.  While your'e there make sure to check out some bars, it's really entertaining for the locals.
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