"The natural tendency for parents is to put their little skier between their legs - kids like the closeness and parents like the feeling of control. This position however encourages the child to hang from their armpits and not carry their own weight. After a run or two, parents will feel the burn in their thighs and lower back. Try a learn-to-ski device like @sloperopes that teaches kids the proper stance and still gives their parents the safety they are looking for.
"
"With their baggy clothes they might not even be able to see their own feet, so you'll need to guide them through the process. Good coaching early on will enable them to do it on their own before you know it.
"
"Don't underestimate this simple task. It can take a lot longer than you think! Children will be dealing with technology they have never seen before, and they'll be excited and overwhelmed by everything around them.
"
"“It’s hard to have fun if anyone is feeling: too cold, too hot, too tired, too frustrated, too hungry, too thirsty, too much pressure, or too overwhelmed.
If you or your child is dealing with any of these feelings, back off and solve it. Skiing is fun! Never let this core concept stray from your mind.”
"
"“Be silly, sing songs, play games, and smile! Your children will be reading your expression - if you’re nervous, they will be too. If you’re having fun, so will they.”
"
"Give plenty of encouragement and praise. If they fall in the snow make sure to say, 'You did great! Don't worry about falling, everybody falls! That was so awesome!' Celebrate any little accomplishment. When in doubt, heap on more praise.
"
"Self explanatory (especially considering all of the layers outlined in the previous post!)
"
"A warm kid is a happy kid. And the happier the kid, the more time you get on the slopes before the next hot chocolate break.
"
"There are a lot of items required for skiing. Role model that being a skier means taking care of your gear. This simple bit of awareness helps develop an overall sense of responsibility and respect for the mountain and other skiers. It's important that children learn to carry their own gear, how to set their skis out on level terrain, and how to put them on a rack or out of the way at a break so they don't get lost or cause a mess for other skiers. Run through a checklist with your child. This will remind both of you to stay organized.
"
"Parents can use a huge duffel bag to hold all the kids' gear; then they can more easily carry it from the car to the lodge. Some people like to put the bag and ski gear on a cheap plastic sled and pull it that way.
"
"If you can, drop off an adult and the kids right up close to the lodge. Unload only the gear they'll need while the driver parks the car. Kids should walk in their regular shoes, and then change into ski boots in the lodge.
"
"Don't get too focused on the actual skiing. Be aware that each step along the way has its own challenges. Proceed forward calmly.
1. Get from the car to the lodge.
2. Find a bench and cubby space.
3. Get the tickets and get them attached.
4. Get the boots on and get everyone ready for the day.
5. Walk outside and carry your skis to the snow.
6. Put the skis on."