Is ski school right for your kids?

How do you know if ski school is a good match for your kids?  You may have many questions about ski schools.  How do you pick one?  What lesson is the best for my child?

Follow these simple guidelines to help you determine if Ski School or a lesson is right for your children.

1. Do the kids want to go?- It is hard for fun and learning to take place if a child does not want to be in a lesson.  
2. What will they learn?- Most ski schools adhere to the mantra of "Safety, Fun, and Learning".  In other words, your children will be safe, they will have fun, and they will learn something in the lesson.  Ski schools are skill based and they develop skills amongst children which are age appropriate.
3. It is too expensive- Most ski schools offer deals if you plan in advance and book in advance.  However, if you are on a ski vacation and realize that lessons may be appropriate, explain the situation and ask what deals or discounts are available.  In other words, if you walk up to a window and purchase a product, be prepared to pay full price.
4. Have realistic expectations- Your child may not be Bode Miller or Lindsey Vonn over night.  As children get older, it takes longer for them to progress from one level to another.  It also takes longer for the skill development.  For example, there are nine levels in alpine skiing.  A child who has never skied might be able to go through Level 1, 2, and 3 in one day.  However, as that child progresses from a Level 4 to a Level 5 it will take many days, weeks, or even seasons.  Level 9 is the highest level which might take a child years and many days per season to achieve.  It is all about the mileage or amount of time on the slope the child can receive.
5. Group versus private lessons- Groups offer many different learning opportunities, including social interactions with other students.  Children might be able to meet a new friend that becomes a penpal.  Private lessons offer a more intimate setting and you can be assured that your child will receive one-on-one, personal coaching.
6. All day, half-day, or one hour lessons- The more time a child can spend in a lesson, the more opportunities there are for learning.  However, younger children (3-4 year olds) do not have the stamina to ski all day, whereas older children (11-12 year olds and teens) may have the stamina to ski all day.  Ask the ski area or resort what they recommend depending on the age of the child.

Follow these simple guidelines to help you decide if ski school is right for your children. Most resorts and areas have well educated staff to help answer any questions you might have.  The more specific questions you can ask, the better choice you can make for your children.

Enjoy the slopes this season!