Tuesday 12 July 2016

What age is the best to learn to ski?


When is the best age to ski? A very tricky question! This question is usually asked when parents are considering entering their children into ski school for the first time, we will breakdown how to decide whether it’s time to strap of some skis and start mastering the snow plough!

It is natural for parents to worry they will push their children too soon into trying to learn to ski but they also don’t want their children to be left behind and miss out on mastering a new skill whilst having a fun! So when is the best time for the kids to start skiing?

Too early?


How early is too early? When you see very tiny children whizzing down the slopes and around adults, it may seem that they were born with skis attached but this is a rare occurrence and goes against the general rule. There is also the increased risk that children can be put off a new hobby or ski by starting too soon. So when should they start?

Realistically, the very earliest that kids can ski is from three years old. Children under three will struggle to co-ordinate and control their skis as well as lack the strength to stay up and balance. There is also the issue of more limited communication, concentration and the need for toilet stops!

Too late?


Wondering whether you have waited too long to start teaching your child to ski or sending them to ski school can be the bigger concern for some parents. The main thing that you must remember is that progress should be measured in terms of enjoyment and happiness for the young skier not in terms of technical accomplishments and trophies.

Like most sports, an early start can help but mainly if you want them to become an international sports star. Then again, a lot of the most competent skiers didn’t learn at a very young age. Skiing, like any skill, gets mastered through a combination of natural ability and a lot of practice! With getting a lot of practice or having a natural talent for skiing means that you can start at any age.


My first experience of skiing was at the age of 15 and although I might not be shredding down the black slopes, I have a decent level of ability and absolutely love my time in the mountains! So don’t worry to those parents worrying about when to start skiing. As long as your child is enthusiastic on the slopes and loves putting on planks; they will be skiing by your side in no time!  

Our Favourite Family Friendly Ski Chalets



This beautiful chalet has stunning views over the valley, a magnificent spa, outdoor hot tub and massages for mum and dad with the option of having professional nannies and babysitters on hand to entertain the kids in the chalets indoor pool or fantastic playroom with a real tepee!



This beautiful ski in/ski out luxury chalet comes with a complimentary nanny services included in the rental for off-peak weeks! There is also a kids TV snug, plenty of toys, games and sledges to keep the children amused whilst you take on the mountains.



This outstanding chalet in the heart of Meribel is a child's (and grown ups!) dream with a fantastic cinema room, separate living room just for kids to hang out and play table football, table tennis and plenty of games!


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