I love cross country skiing. Considering that I live in the host city of the 2010 Winter Olympics where downhill skiing prevails, I am a bit of an oddball. I remember my first skiing experience – in Norway, a much more logical place for cross-country skiing. On rented skis, I stood at the top of a small hill, and with a gentle push I was off, hurtling downwards on a relatively steep slope, right towards the traffic on the road below. Needless to say, I exited that skiing experience rather quickly by bailing to the side of the ski hill.
My brother, on the other hand, had a much more novel approach to early childhood skiing. He would also stand at the top of the hill and start moving downwards, but instead of learning how to stop or throwing himself into a snowbank when things got rough, he would shout, “Beep! Beep!” as he whizzed down the gentle slope, scattering adult skiers this way and that.
This winter, we’re starting my daughter on cross-country skis, and if all goes well I hope that her first experiences will be less traumatic than those of the small children in my own family.
If you’re thinking about going skiing with a preschooler, how can you prepare?
If you’re just trying things out to see if your preschooler enjoys skiing and you are at a formal ski hill, you can purchase an all-inclusive rental package. Some skiing classes come with free rentals, too, and this can be a good way for your child to get introduced to skiing at a relatively low cost.
If you’re teaching your child yourself, then a trade-in or sports swap program where you can upgrade as your child grows may be the way to go. Or advertise on craigslist or the local paper for basic skis. Our favorite is the ski that incorporates a child’s existing snow boots so that you don’t need to buy boots as well. You’ll need poles as well, although it can be useful for a child to start out on a very mild slope without poles, just to get a sense of balance.
A hat is the most important piece of clothing for maintaining your body heat. Remember to bring good gloves, and a few pairs of them. Dress in layers that can be removed comfortably. Once your child starts moving, she’ll likely want to take off a few pieces of clothing. Socks are also important – frozen toes hurt, and a layer of moisture-wicking socks covered by a layer of wool will help keep small toes warm.
Have you gone skiing with your preschooler? What are your tips and tricks?