alpine
Hit the slopes with kids in tow Planning ensures a hassle-free ski day
Leslie Foster
I
f you’re nervous about skiing with your children, get over it. A little ski-forethought goes a long way toward a good day on the slopes for everyone. Start by picking a familyfriendly hill or resort – most of them are – and bring along a sitter if you can. If you can’t bring a sitter, go with another family, so parents can take turns watching the kids in the chalet while the
rest get more ski-time. Before you leave, check your gear. Starting with the idea that one-piece snowsuits are bad news for trips to the bathroom. That said, if your gear is in good working order and fits properly – especially boots – there won’t be any bad surprises. Did we say especially boots? Yes! Too big, and socks bunch up, boots rub, and blisters will
signal a quick end to a ski day. Too tight, and feet will get cold or hurt. Once you’re on the road, don’t travel in the car with those boots on. Feet will sweat and wet feet get cold. Helmets are required for kids, to protect them from falls and collisions. And they’re warmer than hats. For keeping children – or anybody – warm, a waterproof outer
layer is essential. The goal is to stay warm riding the chairlift but not sweaty while bombing down the hill, so an insulated breathable fabric is best. If it has a hood, be sure that it fits over your child’s helmet to avoid heat loss around the neck. A child needs a hip-length jacket with a built-in snow barrier. Layers of thermal clothes will wick sweat away and keep kids warm. And layers allow you to take clothes on or off as the weather dictates. Bring hand and toe warmers. Once the skiing is under way, put the kids in a group lesson at some point for uninterrupted grownup ski time. Some hills offer childcare; take up the offer. Children ride between adults on ski lifts to help them on and off and keep them warmer for the long ride up. Hungry kids are miserable, so pack lots of food – finger food and hot cocoa are favourites – but make sugary treats just a small part of your meal. You don’t want kids bouncing off the walls on a sugar high and then come crashing down. Because kids grow fast, think about renting equipment or buying gently used gear at ski swaps or consignment stores like Play It Again Sports. When the day is done, ensure a happy ride home with cozy blankets and stuffies for the young passengers. You might get lucky and have sleeping kids before you hit the highway. Once you’re home, put a checklist in your ski bag, so next trip you’re not caught at the hill missing snow pants or ski boots
Ski trip checklist Lift passes or tickets purchased on-line Ski/boards/poles Ski boots (left and right!) Ski jacket Ski pants Helmets
Goggles or sunglasses Ski locks Snow boots Hand/toe warmers Hats/balaclavas Neck warmers/ scarves Extra socks
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Gloves and mitts aplenty A change of clothes for accidents (puddles or other) Slippers for in-thechalet wear Snacks and drinks
(lots of them) Toys (electronics, books and board games are good bets) Health card Any medication you might need (for you or the kids)
First aid kit (BandAids work miracles) Sunscreen and lip balm Disinfectant wipes for hands and tables Lots of tissue for runny noses
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