Making a ski day with your kids fun can depend on their age and ability. I hate to break it to new parents, but little kids (toddler age) will be less about actual skiing and more about simply enjoying the snow, with most of the fun and games in the lodge. But the real fun begins once your kids can link turns and are confident skiing beginner and intermediate runs!
While I can't think of anything better to do than spend an entire bluebird day skiing with my kids, they may need extra motivation to keep things entertaining on the slopes. I've compiled a list of things to help make a good ski day great.
Choose The Right Resort
Most resorts have a good mix of terrain for all ski levels, but make sure the resort you choose has amenities for kids. Resorts with snow parks, magic carpets, and short, easy runs help keep them entertained.
Incorporate Games
I like to make the downtime on chairlifts go faster with I Spy and Letter games. Select objects to look out for and the first to find or spot it wins (i.e., someone with a onesie, whacky helmet, or specific color). Another game we love is to run through the alphabet, one letter at a time and in order, found on ski run signs, lift signs, or other wayfinding signs. Note: This could take a few hours, so it keeps them engaged for an extended period of time.
Make It A Challenge
If your kids have even an ounce of competitiveness, they'll likely take you up on a challenge of some kind. Some of our favorites include:
- Skiing from point A to point B without stopping
- At the pre-determined point B stopping point – see who can spray the most snow with hockey stops
- (On an easy section of a run) see how far they can practice skiing backward, on one leg, how many 360 spins, etc.
Breaks, Breaks, Breaks
I truly believe sometimes my kids ski just for the hot chocolate and snacks. And that's OKAY! We all need a little motivation, and hot cocoa and cookie breaks are a must when it's a cold ski day. I like to use this time to hype them up on the improvements I see them making and set some challenges for when we're back on the snow. Note: If it's cold and they're tired or just too cold, it's okay to call it a day early. Ending on a positive note keeps them excited to ski again.
No Skiing, No Problem
If the kids get tired of skiing but don't want to leave, that's fine! Let them make snowmen, have a snowball fight, or roll around in the snow. Many resorts have activities like ice skating, tubing, or indoor activities to keep them entertained and happy.
Skiing with kids can be a fantastic family adventure. With the right planning and preparation, it's sure to be enjoyable for everyone, no matter the age!
