7 Reasons Kids Should Attend Ski School

As a family residing in sunny Miami, we truly value the unique joy that a ski vacation brings. Since we only get to the mountains about once a year, ski school plays a crucial role in our trips. We've traveled to California, Colorado, and Wisconsin for ski lessons.

While ski school does add to the cost of a family ski trip, every time we’ve enrolled our daughters, it has proven to be worth the investment. Here’s why.

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Introduce Them Early Before Fear Sets In

We’ve always believed in encouraging our children to embrace new experiences without letting fear hold them back. At just 4 years old, our youngest has already tried surfing, zip-lining, and parasailing.

For many adults, their first skiing experience can be quite daunting, filled with apprehension. This fear often arises from a clear awareness of the risks and preconceived notions—whether accurate or not. In contrast, children approach new activities with curiosity—unless influenced otherwise—and since they typically don’t grasp the risks involved, they tend to be far less fearful. This openness can lead to a more relaxed and effective learning environment.

I vividly recall my daughters’ first ski school experience. They eagerly strapped on their skis, excited to tackle the bunny slopes without a moment's hesitation.

However, this year will present some changes on various ski slopes. Many resorts are not offering ski school for ages 3 and 4 this season—unless you opt for a private lesson. Be sure to check with your ski resort for details regarding its ski school programs for the 2020–2021 season.

Children Quickly Acquire New Skills

It’s undeniable that kids learn new skills much faster than adults.

You may not know if your children will develop a lifelong passion for skiing, but starting them young typically leads to better results. For example, my husband first tried skiing at 30, and I can confidently say our kids outperformed him on the slopes.

In a typical year, many ski schools offer lessons for children as young as 3. While it can be challenging to determine the ideal age for kids to start skiing, if you feel your kids are ready, go ahead and enroll them—you might be pleasantly surprised. This year, the best option for the youngest skiers would be to arrange some one- or two-hour private lessons and build from there.

Ski School is a Blast

I’ve watched my kids during ski school, and I must admit: I felt a pang of envy.

Their lessons were a world apart from mine. They enjoyed multiple breaks to play in the snow, got snacks like cookies and ice cream, and even skied through forts and fun trails. Plus, unless they’re in a private lesson, they have other kids their age to hang out with. This year, many group ski lessons will have a limit of four to six children, making it a more manageable experience.

When it’s time to pick them up, even if they’re a bit tired, they eagerly share stories about their new friends and all the fun they had.

Children Thrive When Parents Are Absent

Have you ever attempted to teach your kids something, only for them to either struggle or get frustrated, but once you stepped back, everything clicked?

Without parents around, there tends to be less whining, reduced resistance, and sometimes even a boost in motivation as they try to keep pace with their classmates. While we often want to be the ones guiding our children, it doesn’t always mean we’re the best fit. Enrolling your kids in ski school guarantees they receive proper technique instruction along with essential safety guidelines for their time on the mountain.

Gives Parents Some Well-Deserved Time Off

Honestly, one of the top reasons kids should attend ski school is that it provides parents with some much-needed free time.

Whether you're taking your own lessons, carving down slopes your kids haven’t tackled yet, soaking in the hot tub, working out, enjoying a spa day, or simply unwinding, you'll find yourself with several hours of free time.

It's likely a safer option

While most skiers and snowboarders learn the sport without major issues, skiing does carry some inherent risks. If you're not well-versed in teaching a young, beginner skier how to stop, turn, and safely get on and off lifts, it may be best to let the professionals handle those skills, as they practice them daily.

Fosters New Family Bonds and Keeps Adults Feeling Young

Once the whole family has completed their lessons and feels confident on the slopes, skiing together becomes a wonderful bonding experience.

There’s nothing quite like witnessing your children thrive in a new activity, falling in love with it, and enjoying it together. I cherish how each year my daughters eagerly ask if we’re going skiing again. Their enthusiasm for skiing also motivates my husband and me to return year after year. Ultimately, their successful learning journey at ski school contributes to our family's active ski vacations.

In Conclusion

Ski school has turned into a cherished family tradition. Regardless of when you introduce skiing to your children, enrolling them in ski school significantly accelerates their learning, reduces frustrations, and allows them to have fun with peers while mastering new skills. With numerous quality ski schools available, here’s a roundup of some of the best ski schools nationwide.