The search for a family-friendly ski area, price comparisons and the purchase of the necessary equipment for young and old – preparing for a ski holiday with the family usually takes a lot of time. Here we have 5 tips for ski holidays with children and how the holiday can also be an experience for the little ones.
The choice of the ski area
When looking for the right ski resort, the first thing that counts is the age and skiing ability of the little ones. For younger children and those with little or no experience on the slopes, flat ramps and easy-to-use lifts are particularly helpful. In addition, designated children's ski areas are ideal, as they are specially tailored to the needs of the little ones. But it is also important to ensure that the offer is family-friendly with older children or skiers. Often it doesn't have to be a particularly large ski area to inspire the family. Smaller areas are usually more personal and clearer to the parents.
With the ski pass to the ski course
In many ski areas, children receive more than a 50 percent discount on the ski pass or can use all lifts for free up to the age of six. So it pays to compare prices beforehand. When it comes to a ski course, not only the price is decisive. Learning through play and the safety aspect are especially important. And the smaller the group, the more individually the instructor can respond to the young skiers and their needs.
The necessary equipment
Parents should ideally purchase ski underwear, a ski suit, scarf, helmet and gloves before starting the trip. This way you can be sure that you don't have to go from store to store in the short term to pick up the missing ski clothing. When it comes to ski equipment, however, it can be more relaxed to rent it in the holiday region. Renting equipment is particularly suitable for children who are on skis for the first time or for families who are rarely on the slopes. The experts in the ski rental also know very well which ski boots and which ski models are suitable for the novice skier. A helmet with the right ski goggles is essential. The headgear should be sturdy yet comfortable and provide adequate ventilation. The ski goggles must have sufficient UV protection, since you are exposed to more intense sunlight at high altitudes and the snow has a reflective effect.
Ski fun for the little ones
During a ski holiday with small children, there are a few special features that parents should keep in mind. For example, in order not to overwhelm the youngest snow holidaymakers, ski instructors recommend starting ski lessons only when they are about three years old. In terms of coordination and physique, a ski course is simply too heavy for the little ones. On the other hand, it makes sense to do exercises in the snow where you can approach the sport in a very relaxed way. Since the young skiers tire more quickly and need breaks, parents should also pay attention to the children's program outside the "ski course". For shared experiences with the family, Mum and Dad should also remember to take days off on the skis and test the offer off-piste. Winter walks, horse-drawn sleigh rides and sightseeing in the region are suitable for young and old.
Caution instead of tolerance
Family holidays are often planned and booked well in advance. But especially with children you usually have no planning security. For example, if the little ones become ill shortly before or during the trip, so that the holiday cannot or must not be interrupted, it becomes expensive for parents, especially during a ski holiday. It is therefore advisable to take out suitable travel insurance. So if the worst comes to the worst, the family is optimally protected. It can also be costly in the event of an accident on the slopes. In the case of a skiing accident in the mountains, often only a difficult and often expensive rescue can help. Accident insurance would be an additional option to protect yourself here, but it's important to check exactly when it comes into effect.
