Ski Tips for Kids

"Sometimes you can signal the up-top liftie to slow the chair down for off-loading. If they see someone with a child making the universal gesture for 'slow down,' they'll know what to do.⁠ ⁠"

"While you are on the chair, make a plan before you get to the top. Which way are we going? Review these steps: Ski tips up as you approach, no need to jump, just stand up, keep the skis pointing straight when you stand up and ski faster than the chair.⁠ ⁠"

"Sometimes the cord on @edgiewedgies are too long, especially for the tiniest skiers. A simple solution is to just tie an overhand knot in the cord. Easy!⁠ ⁠"

"Don't lift the children into your own lap; they need to end up sitting on the chair, facing forward, all by themselves. And don't try this with poles!⁠ ⁠"

"While riding on the chairlift, you'll have an awesome view of the brand new run you'll soon be skiing on. Point out the big features, like where the trails merge and turns in the run. This can be a time to preview what's coming up next on the slopes below."

"Sandwich the kids between two adults, or position the kids on the outside of the chair near the liftie. The attendants at any Green lift will be accustomed to boosting kids onto the chair. But they can only do this with the kids closest to them. Kids who are in the middle of the chair won't get a liftie boost.⁠ ⁠"

"It's normal to just pick up the smaller kids and set them on the chair. It's best if they do most of the work, but that might not happen until they are bigger or have more practice⁠ ⁠"

"Chase the chair after it goes by, shuffle forward. Stay in your lane! You might need to do some pushing and pulling to get 'em moving fast enough. Then line your boots up at the next line.⁠ ⁠"

"Talk to the lift attendant (lovingly known as the 'liftie'). Make sure to tell him that this is the child's first ever chairlift ride. Ask if he can slow the chair down.⁠ ⁠"

"You can practice getting on the chairlift using a bench. Imagine turning around and watching the approaching chair. How much help you give them depends on their size and comfort. It's normal to just pick up the smaller kids and set them on the chair. It's best if they do most of the work, but that might not happen until they are bigger or have more practice.⁠ ⁠"

"Next introduce turning (lots more on this to come). Basic turning means putting more pressure on one ski than the other. Start with turning to one side. Draw a big arcing C-shape in the snow. Start in a wedge; ask them to put most of their weight on one ski and keep it there while you all count to 'Three Mississippi' as your little skiers slide.⁠ ⁠"