The Parentzone

For Frequently Asked Questions about Snow School, more Cold Weather Tips, and How to Determine the Status of Lessons, Click Here.

SKI TIPS FOR KIDS from the National Ski Areas Assocation

Your Responsibilities

Have your child memorize the “Your Responsibility Code.” It’s the ten rules of the slopes and many accidents can be avoided by adhering to the Code.

Helmets

Snow Sport helmets are a good idea. If your child wears a ski helmet, remember you may have to raise your voice more to get their attention because a helmet may impede their hearing. Make sure the helmet fits correctly. A ski helmet is not an item you buy for your child to grow into. Educate your child about the benefits and limitations of the helmet. Wearing a helmet doesn’t give permission to ski or snowboard faster or recklessly.

Dress Properly

Dress in layers. Layering allows you to accommodate your body’s constantly changing temperature. For example, dress your kids in polypropylene underwear (top and bottoms) which feels good next to the skin, dries quickly, absorbs sweat and keeps you warm. Your kids should also wear a turtleneck, sweater and waterproof jacket.

Mother Nature has a mind of her own. Kids should wear a hat or headband, 80 percent of heat-loss is through the head. Kids should also wear gloves or mittens (mittens are usually better for kids who are susceptible to cold hands).

Sun Protection

Be sure they wear sun protection, even on cloudy days. The sun reflects off the snow and is stronger than you think! A ski vacation with a sun burn is no fun!
Kids should have sunglasses and goggles with them. Skiing is a lot more fun when you can see. Always wear eye protection.

Be Prepared

Be sure you child has the name and phone number of your hotel written down on a piece of paper and it’s in a secure pocket. If you carry a cell phone, include this number too.
Although it is very unlikely that your child would get separated from the instructor, be sure your child has a trail map and is able to remember the instructor’s name.
Make sure your child knows when to stop skiing. For example, if the clothing layer next to their skin stays wet and they’re chilled, if they’re injured, have a problem with equipment or even if they’re simply worn out. Educate them that it’s alright to stop before the end of the day and breaks are fun.
Make a meeting place if you get separated, for example, at the bottom of the chairlift. The walkie talkies now available are convenient and a big hit on the slopes.

ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE INFO

UPON ARRIVAL

Buses and Cars will Load/Unload in front of lodge. If you are arriving by car and will accompany your child into the building, DO NOT LEAVE CAR UNATTENDED IN LOAD/UNLOAD AREA. Please park car in designated areas.
Students who have not been issued badges will pick up their badges at the Customer Service Desk.

If Renting:

Enter through Customer Service entrance (right main door when facing lodge).
If you have been pre-fitted, your Boots and Helmets can be found on shelves to the left with students last name printed on heel. If not, go to the Rental Shop desk.
After boots and/or helmets are on, proceed outside past the rental desk, down the hallway and out the back door. You will find your skis or snowboard leaning against fence with YOUR name on them. DO NOT pick up poles; they will not be needed on first lesson. You may pick up poles on 2nd lesson if suggested by your instructor.
Once you have your equipment, proceed towards the teaching area which is located near the tubing park (left of base lodge). Please meet your instructor by your Ski or Snowboard level ability sign.

If you have your own equipment:

LEAVE ALL YOUR EQUIPMENT OUTSIDE ON RACKS – no skis, poles or snowboards are allowed in lodge. This is for your safety and convenience!
Students may change inside, pick up gear and make their way towards the teaching area located near the tubing park (left of the base lodge). Please meet your instructor by your Ski or Snowboard level ability sign.

DEPARTURE
For Renters:

Return ski/snowboard/poles to the fence outside rental shop.
Return boots to shelves.
Return Helmet to rental counter.
Gather all belongings. Forgotten belongings will be placed in LOST AND FOUND bin to the right of the lodge exit.
Proceed to bus or car with designated group or parent.

If Not Renting:

Place equipment on racks outside; skis, snowboards or poles are NOT allowed in lodge.
Gather all belongings from inside lodge. Forgotten belongings will be placed in LOST AND FOUND bin to the right of the lodge exit.
Proceed to bus or car with your designated group or parent!

DOWNLOADABLE FORMS AND RESOURCE LINKS

Ski Ward