In my previous blog “A Family Ski Vacation—Already?” I discussed why hitting the slopes is a great way to spend time together in the great outdoors—even when the mercury is hovering around freezing. Once you commit to strapping on the skis and you find a family-friendly resort (most are)… it should be downhill from there. To ensure that you have your bases covered consider following these tips:
· Dress Appropriately. Staying warm (and making sure your children are warm) should be your top priority. When planning a family ski trip it is critical to be sure everybody is dressed for the weather. Forget about style (many teens care more about what they look like on the slopes than whether they are at risk for frostbite) and stress warmth. A cold skier is an unhappy skier. What’s more, hypothermia is scary—yet, it is avoidable. A reasonable clothing checklist includes: Insulated bib overalls, a turtleneck, good water-resistant ski gloves, a jacket and a hat. (Turtlenecks or neck cuffs are better than scarves, which can get caught in lift machinery.)
· Bring Extra Clothes. Pack an extra pair of gloves for the kids to change into mid-day. If you’re just at the resort for the day, pack dry clothes to change into during the drive home.
· Use Plenty of Sunblock. Winter sunlight reflecting off the snow at high altitudes is intense. In addition to slathering on the sunscreen, you should also protect your child’s eyes from the sun with a wide-brimmed hat or visor, kid-size ski goggles, or sunglasses.
· Listen to your child. Remember that beginners fall down a lot. If your child is cold or just plain miserable then perhaps it is time to call it a day. (Use your own discretion—if your child is complaining about being cold and miserable after being out for just 10 minutes then try diverting his or her attention.)
· Pack Snacks. Bring some high-energy snacks–dried fruit and peanuts, granola, GORP, even crackers (such as Wheat Thins) are great for a break in the snow, and provide an energy boost between meals.
· Avoid The Crowds. Plan your ski trips for midweek when the slopes are less crowded.
· Renting vs. Buying. If you have young children and don’t live near a ski area I would suggest renting your equipment. Kids grow fast and equipment needs change as skill levels improve.
· Have Fun. Don’t be like the father I once saw on the slopes who constantly peppered his son with insults and shouts of: “What’s wrong with you? You can do better than that. Get up and try again.” Don’t burden your children with expectations about their abilities. Rather, encourage and congratulate them for whatever progress they make, and for the simple fact that they’re out in the cold putting forth effort.