Teaching someone a new skill can simultaneously be the most frustrating and rewarding thing imaginable. And both of these are amplified when your student is a child, and the new skill is skiing. So what’s the best way to teach your kids how to ski? Well, realistically, it’s the same as teaching an adult. Just focus on the fundamentals:
How to stand: center of gravity and relative positions of body parts can be tough concepts to convey to a child, so settle for something a little easier to grasp. Start them in a position where they are standing straight up, and have them bend their knees and lean forward a little. I don’t recommend starting children with poles; it’s just something extra to think about, and can hinder them in developing a good sense of balance on their skis. Add the poles later. Instead, have them bend at the elbow to make a 90 degree angle with each arm, and rest their elbows comfortably at their sides.
How to walk: before skiing down a hill, they should learn to walk in skis. Find a small incline and have them face their skis perpendicular to the bottom, and side-step their way up. Also, on a flat area, show them how to skate. This is achieved by placing the backs of the skis close together, and the tips further apart. Then, have them push one ski toward the outside of their body, followed by the other, then repeat. Once they get momentum, this becomes much easier, so sometimes a little push is required to get them started.
How to get up: yes, inevitably, they will fall. Have them start on the ground, and again place their skis perpendicular to the bottom of the hill. Then, they simply push themselves up with their arms. Have them start in different configurations of skis crossed or uncrossed to simulate getting up from a real fall.
How to snow-plough: teach them how to slow down and regulate their speed by having the tips of the skis almost touching, and the backs spread apart. Have them play around with different angles to get a feel for how this works.
How to turn: Keep it as simple as possible here, because this is not easy. Teach the foundation, and let them learn the subtleties as they go. From the wedge position, have them look in the direction they want to turn. Then, shift their weight to, and put more pressure on the ski on the opposite side. Start by turning all the way to one side until they stop. Then, the other side. Eventually, work up to turning back and forth without stopping.
And don’t forget one of the most often overlooked parts in teaching anyone to ski: positivity. Give them positive feedback! They will become frustrated at some point! Help them deal with this frustration, and their confidence will skyrocket. Keep them on the bunny hills for a while; make sure you give them plenty of time to practice these valuable skills. And don’t buy equipment! There is no sense in spending money on gear when they are still learning.
And if you’re looking for a great place for your little ones to learn, consider La Plagne. The chalets at La Plagne would be a great option for the entire family. They offer gorgeous views and nearby skiing, equipment hire, restaurants, and other activities. And should your little ones need some more help, lessons are offered too. It’s an all-around great place to spend your ski holiday.
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