It really depends. I'd say once they are sufficiently potty trained and out of diapers. Perhaps 2.
At that age, don't expect much. Playing in the snow for 30 minutes or so and then hot chocolate or other non-snow activities.
I'd highly recommend a place like Smuggs to do this for you. It's like a daycare on the slopes so they get to play in the snow and do other fun things to keep the kids entertained - including naps. You don't have to even worry about rental gear. Just do this for several days in a row and your kid will be ripping it!
We took my newly 2 year old on the bunny slope this past winter and the zero expectations part was key to a good experience for all.
Two runs down the bunny slope. About 20 minutes total, so the fact she’s still in diapers wasn’t an issue.
Also it helps she loves snow and doesn’t mind getting into her snow pants, mittens, etc if it means she gets to go play in snow.
I expected to be able to make a few runs while my kids were in their first lesson…..I made one, then the day went south. One kid crying with the instructor, one kid with faulty rental gear, one kid pissed for no reason other than to be a ahole and one angry wife. So yeah, spot on. Embrace the suck, don’t buy yourself a lift ticket, and be prepared to buy $45 worth of hot chocolates and a few $87 chicken finger platters. Save a few bucks by chucking a few beers in the backpack and hope the wife doesn’t get mad when you crack one under the table that took 30 min to secure.
Yeah don't even bring the skis or ski boots.
I made the mistake of bringing my ski boots one time and wound up just hanging on the ski rack. Well when the day finished, I forgot I had them there.
Luckily for me my custom fitted, punched, stretched and insoled boots were in the lost and found the next day.
My brother started his kid on bunny slopes this year. Kid is 2. He just walked next to him on magic carpet for a couple of days. Plan is for lessons next year
We got my kid (2.5 y/o) on skis 3 times this season. 2 lessons , one time just me and him. He was able to get up the magic carpet on his own after a while and could go straight down the littlest bunny hill, but couldn't turn or stop, so I (or the instructor ) had to be ready to catch him before hit anything.
He really enjoyed it, but after his last lesson he had a complete meltdown. Like the worst he's ever had, and he is typically a really chill kid. I think he was just way too over tired. Had to carry him kicking and screaming to the car, so be prepared for that possibility. He passed out in his seat before we left the parking lot.
It depends on the kid. In my experience 2 is the youngest. 4 is average. Also temper your expectations the first year. Kids in that age range are still developing their motor skills. Some may just be able to walk on skis and others may be able to make controlled turns. Also (and this is most important) listen to your kid and go at their pace. I’ve seen quite a few parents put their kids off skiing by pushing them when they aren’t ready. Source: 25 years of ski instructor experience.
I always see these parents with the 2-6 year old in black/double black terrain. Kid terrified and crying parents frustrated they can't understand why they're terrified looking at from their narrow eye perspective what is a vertical wall. Then think to myself they probably wonder why their kids hate skiing and wanted to play some trad sport like baseball and need therapy.
The best was on Spruce at Stowe, We're riding up. See this parent standing at the bottom of that little wall. Kid 3/4 the way up, tumbled and trying to stand up. Not hurt just having a melt down and over it. As we see another parent start to approach the child, my buddy yells out **"Don't touch it or it's mother won't take it back!!"** I almost fell off the lift laughing and you could hear everyone else laughing as well.
I see a lot of responses on here talking about having no expectations, and as a Kindergarten teacher for 8 years, I can't stress this enough.
For starters: just have your kid around it, show them your passion for it, and give them every opportunity to join in. There's no faster way to ensure they WON'T want to do it than by forcing it on them, or making it stressful in any way.
The next thing I'll add, is that long before you even think about getting them to an actual ski mountain, you should be pulling them around on skis in your backyard. Little shit like that goes a long way in building a love for the sport through memories and quality time spent together.
This is the way. I've had all three of my kids on skis once they could walk/stand. We bought strap on skis and would drag them around the backyard and at the base area of whatever mountain we were at, as long as they wanted to and only while they were into it. Also, we'd take them on lifts or gondolas and ski down holding them on mellow terrain or put them in a backpack, again, only when they were into it. Exposure is key, but on their terms.
Another thing we did/do with all of them is letting them pick out their own gear. They'll look ridiculous but will love getting into their ski costume...if they love their stuff it makes getting out there so much easier.
I just finished this phase with my daughter this season. It was her first season with a real setup (which she requested after a few days). She turned three in March. She skis the bunny hill with confidence and will get lessons next season. My boys are 6 and 5 and they rip. They love everything about skiing and I credit that to letting them own the experience.
2 is pretty good to get hyped up about it and start having fun. Backyard is fine if you have a small hill you can trudge up.
30 minutes and done is probably what you should shoot for. If possible, find a place that does a seasonal kid rental program where you can trade up as they grow.
For my 4 year old this year (started at 2) I would take him for like an hour or two in the afternoon before closing. This gave us a natural stopping point as well which can be handy cause they don't know when to stop before melting down because they're tired. My wife or I got to ski in the morning, get lunch, then head out with the kid.
On the weekends most lessons have already cleared out so it worked pretty nice.
His brother will be 2 this month so will get him started this winter. The younger one is much less fearful of things because he sees his brother doing it so I suspect he'll get pushed a bit faster because he wants to keep up.
Edit: also there's a huge difference between 2 and 2.5 and like 2.9 in terms of two year old.
I totally read that second paragraph thinking, wow you can trade up your kid as they grow? That’s amazing? Like, ehh, he’s really not living up to my expectations, his next birthday I’m going to that kid rental place and getting an upgrade.
So much good advice here but I'll throw in my two cents as well. Our son has a February birthday so I'd bring him on the magic carpet and kind of just play when he was turning 3. We didn't bother with lessons at this point because potty training was still going on and at that points like others have said it's just about getting them introduced and enjoy playing in the snow. He also rode to Gondi at Stowe with my wife will I'd ski down below them so he could see me skiing and I think that really helped. I also tend to watch a lot of skiing stuff in Youtube and Instagram and since he was 2 he always kind of snuggles up next to me and enjoys it as well.
The next year (3/4 years old) we threw him in to lessons as much as we could. Stowe did full day lessons and they do a great job. Out west in Breck we went out in the spring and their lessons were done for the year but I'd take him out on the greens and he did fantastic. At this age they still don't really have the strength to really ski but it's again about building the fun! I'd always have Skittles in my pocket for every chairlift and every fall. It's all about positive motivation. My son likes to lead so he was always ahead of me and I'd kind of feather behind him to make sure no one would come by and clip him.
This last year (4/5 year old) we again threw him in lessons quite a bit. Admittedly it costs a small fortune but the instructors at Stowe, Park City, and Breck did a much better job than I could. If we are on a week vacation he'd been in lessons 3 days. On the off days I'd usually go skiing in the morning then come grab him for the afternoon. At this point it's still about fun but I really saw a lot of noticeable improvement this year because he had the strength in his legs to actually improve. By the end of the year he was skiing blues from the top of Park City and skiing the trees in Breck.
Just remember - positivity and patience! I may ski slower than I ever would wth my son but it's by far the most rewarding time on the mountain.
Started at 1.5. He could stand up and slide about 8 ft without falling over. Went twice for maybe an hour each time. At 2 he could glide well, at 3, more of that. First day out at 4, he made a pizza, second day out was making turns. By the end of the season he could ski easy blues. This winter at 5 we stuck with blues and added some easy trees. I’ve learned he listens better to instructors than dad. Always quit at least one before you think you should. If your kid wants to ski 4 runs and quit, go with it, you don’t want them to hate it. I used to teach kids for many years, they learn fastest at between 7 and 12. Every year you wait for the first experience they learn faster. At 2 you might make turns after a whole season. At 3 the kid might be able to ski greens at the end of the season, mine did not. At 4 it usually takes 4-5 days, at 5/6 about 2-3 days, at 7 they will ski the beginner slope in a day.
Had all 3 of my daughters on the magic carpet at 2. We’d go a couple times a week and just walked next to them. Just get them used to sliding on their feet at first, then snow plowing. As soon as they can turn each direction on command and stop, get them on the lift. From there they exponentially improve. Always keep it fun. As soon as my wife and I sensed frustration, we left.
We never did lessons. Skiing is pretty intuitive for kids and the whole point was to foster a love for it and have something to do with them for life. Now my girls are 12, 10, and 8. The older 2 just competed and medalled at National Championships for freeride and park! They’re getting their first lessons for park stuff now because they want the extra help.
I started at 4-5, def could’ve (and wished) I had done earlier.
Save up all your patience! It sometimes takes an hour to get out there, and then it’s… I have to go to the bathroom, or I’m starving! Line your coat with snacks, to squash food breaks and use candy as rewards!
It’s rewarding to get them out there and watch them grow. Hardest thing I did as a parent though! I taught two kids on my own.
My sister-and brother-in-law tried to get our niece out two winters ago at age 3. Her ticket was free so at the end of the day they’d bring her out to the magic carpet, and it didn’t go well.
Fast forward to last winter at 4, and she had a blast! They put her in lessons for most of the day and then we’d pick her up mid afternoon and ski with her until she wanted to quit (which was usually when lifts closed).
We also have a little one on the way (due the 27th) and my (way too early) plan is to see how it goes in the yard before even considering to bring him to the mountain. Can’t wait to ski with him though (he better love it 😂)!
I put both my kids on skis at 2. Used an edge wedgie to cheat a bit but by the end of the season when he was almost 3 he was doing blues without it. We went every weekend though.
The "every weekend" thing seems to be key. My wife was NOT a skier when we met. We went together a couple of times a year for 4 years or so and she still didn't like it and never got beyond total beginner level. We (I, really) got a season pass at a local hill and started going every weekend, and by the end of the season she was hooked on the sport and a solid blue square skier, and a couple of years later she was embracing the hard stuff at Jay.
This was my wife's first year too. She didn't go every weekend with us but she did go at least twice a month. She's still the easiest green on the mountain skier. When it comes to adults there's a huge fear factor they need to get over and she's still working on that.
So much good advice on here already but first and foremost just temper all expectations.
We did an 8-week lesson program for our 5-year-old and decided to teach our two and a half-year-old at the same time.
By the end of the season our 5-year-old was completely hooked and wanted to be on the hill non-stop. He was able to steer and stop on his own on all of the green runs and most of the blue runs without help.
Contrast that with our 2.5 year-old. By the end of the season she could do the magic carpet by herself and slide down the Bunny Hill, but she was still unable to consistently stop on her own, and had a hard limit of about 60 minutes on the hill. If we wanted to take her on a Green run she could do the easiest ones but we had to have her in one of those harness leash things which she didn't really like.
My husband and I both like to ski so we did a lot of divide and conquer with the kids. But it's a lot of work and it does take a lot of the fun and recreation out of skiing for the parents. You have to think of it as a long-term investment and something that your family will enjoy together so much when your kids are big enough to be more autonomous on the hill.
Videos for tax purposes!
5 year old: https://imgur.com/a/CtRwbxF
2.5 year old: https://imgur.com/a/NTqEaz2
You can do 2 but only if you are dying to. Really just make sure they are getting laps regularly when they are 5 and you will be good to go. Not much carryover between seasons before that.
I have seen some really young kids out there, like 4 or 5, and they have a good time. I started my kids at 7 and 8 (they are a year apart) and that was great. They were old enough to take instruction but young enough to relax and enjoy. Both were skiing black diamonds 3 years later maybe. My daughter progressed faster (ski camp) but both were quite good by middle school.
We had our daughter on the hill at 20 months in December. 2 runs a day for 4 days. Learn to ski area shuttle at killington. We each held a hand and were just trying to get her used to having skis on her feet and keeping weight on her legs.
I love this thread! I was born in Lincoln, NH. By the time I was two, my parents had me in ski school because it was cheaper than daycare and closer to my house. Fast forward 40 years, and I have started both of my kids at the same age of 2. My youngest is now 11 and has almost a decade of experience on the slopes! It really pays to start them with something they can enjoy as young as possible while still being safe!
Having taught a lot of little kids over the years as a ski instructor, two is generally a little bit young. They don't have that dexterity or the muscle to do much with the skis or learn anything. Yes, there are a few wild exceptions out there of kids learning to rip when they're two years old but that's very rare. The best you can hope for is having him out there for an hour or so just messing around with them between your legs going down the bunny slope.
Actually learning to ski and doing it on their own doesn't happen till at least three maybe better at 4.
my son was 10 months when he was on skis. He took 3 runs down the bunny hill with me. Afterwards, i pulled him around on a sled for another half hour and went home.
I was a ski instructor for about 4 years. If you plan on going the lessons route, waiting until 6 or so is probably the best financial decision. If you are a good skier and plan to do the teaching yourself, 2.5-3 is probably ok to start things. I’d recommend maybe just putting on boots the first day. Playing in the snow. Slowly build from there. Play games , things like “red light green light” are great for kids to keep engagement and practice stopping. I would also try to keep sessions short at first, maybe a half hour or so, then a break and something to eat.
Best of luck !!
Start in your back yard or the local park - you don’t need to drive all the way to a mountain to teach them how to put boots on and skate around a little bit.
2 or 3 years old works. Helps if they see an older kid doing it.
At 3, my son had zero interest. We tried a couple of times and he just hated everything to do with ski boots. At 4 he decided he wanted to snowboard like his sisters and so we did a season rental. We did about 3 lessons and then we slowly worked him up to being able to go on the lift 1/2. Little buddy and I would go after preschool for a couple runs a few days a week and by the end of season he was on blues with no problem. He had days when he wanted to go for 5 or 6 runs and days when he did 1 and was pissed his favorite run was closed and he was done.
had mine on a snowboard at 16 months. Doesnt mean he was snowboarding but he was out there having a good time. Hot chocolate and snacks are key, at this age its just about getting them out into the scene and cultivating it as a place they want to be - not actually "improving" or learning to ride.
Two years old worked for us. Just getting him to the hill the first time seemed like a win. He did great and the first day we did one run on the bunny hill and he sort of tolerated it enough that we thought maybe we could try again. The good thing about being a passholder at a hill where tots ski free is that if you're willing to commit to the ride, you can keep introducing them to the snow over and over, which seems to be magic, vs one big trip with high expectations.
Fast forward that season, and forgive the dad-brag, but here's another perspective - be prepared for them to absolutely love it and ski themselves stupid. By the third time we went, we did 12 "runs" and he was screaming at me to "do it myself" (get on and off the carpet lift, which he did) and day only ended because he was exhausted. We had to bribe him to get **off** the hill. Tears, screaming "one more run," that whole scene.
We ended up going 10 times this season, and by the end we lost count of how many runs we did each day. Physically, he never got much beyond straightlining, pizza/french fries was a bit beyond his understanding, but he stood up and skied straight pretty easily. So, yes, 2 is a good age to start.
I had bunny slope action going on the harness when both kids were about 2-2.5. I really enjoyed teaching my kids to ski with the harness and even though I was stuck on lower mountain greens, it was just a blast to see them learn and pick up the sport.
7. Before that is is incredibly frustrating. It can be done, but not worth the effort unless you are one of those pro skiiers who must have their kids with them all the time..
I got my little one out at 2. The first few times it was just enjoying the snow. And a couple fits on how'd she rather hump into snow and make angels. But every time we made it a point to put on skis. Even if it was only 1 little run. Always make sure to get the skis involved for that connection. Be patient and enjoy how they evolve. Almost every time they get better. Some times you will get a bad day where they simply don't want to ski at all. They will conquer the slopes at their own pace just like you and I. If you have a local mountain that's easy to get to try going out twice a week but at least once a week is good depending on conditions. This winter season she will be turning 7 and going into the rave team development program. I'm not expecting her to get real competitive or racey but to get the interaction of skiing with other kids and learning from the coaches and instructors. Dad can only explain so much without being an instructor lol
Oh and forget about skiing lol I put my boots and ended up jogging alongside every time. Then carry her up the slope and then again. Please don't do this during a busy day. We are lucky to have our local mountain open at night midweek and be completely dead. 2 hours max at that age. If that lol it's so much fun though.
Took my 1.5 yr old on the mtn 5 times this year. Prepped for months putting gear on inside, dragging around carpet, goggles/ helmet on and off, lots of seeing what works and doesnt. It really helped when he got on the mtn. Gear was easy to put on and comfortable, he was excited since we did it inside everyday for months.
Walked him up bunny slopes, magic carpet, etc. last 2 days we were on the lift. He snowboarded though, hasnt touched skis
I had my kid on skis and on harness age 1. At age 2 he’s still on a harness but his balance is amazing and we are doing rollers.
I’d say 2, but keep your expectations low
If you can, put them in cross country skiing first. They’ll learn so much about how to move their bodies, how to balance and how to get back up, and it makes their first downhill skiing a breeze. Our local Nordic centre had a ski program for like $60/winter and finding used gear was easy, so we didn’t feel like we wasted any time or money because they were really comfortable on skis the first time we went downhill.
We had ours on skis by 3. They’re now 9 and 12, and the 12 yo can definitely out-ski us, with the 9yo not far behind.
Just beware, if you start them so young they’ll want to ski all the time and you can just kiss your paycheque goodbye.
I'm late the party hear but the ideal age will depend somewhat on the kid and on your interest in doing many short sessions. If you get snow at your house backyard sessions are fun as soon as they can walk. When you go to the hill you want to again start wih short sessions. There are a variety of different progressions you can use -harness with leash vs. ski pole side-by-side vs. between the legs. Usually best to start by walking up, then go to the magic carpet/rope tow, then go to a slow and low chair with some greens. You will again appreciate the steepness of different slopes. Even blues can be scary steep. And kids won't be able to independently load the chair for a long time though so plan to have a lifting harness for a while.
There's decent ski school programs that have a dialed in progression and peers to play with / learn from / emulate. Those usually require the kid be potty trained and 3-4 to start.
It really depends. I'd say once they are sufficiently potty trained and out of diapers. Perhaps 2. At that age, don't expect much. Playing in the snow for 30 minutes or so and then hot chocolate or other non-snow activities. I'd highly recommend a place like Smuggs to do this for you. It's like a daycare on the slopes so they get to play in the snow and do other fun things to keep the kids entertained - including naps. You don't have to even worry about rental gear. Just do this for several days in a row and your kid will be ripping it!
I will echo the importance of having zero expectations.
We took my newly 2 year old on the bunny slope this past winter and the zero expectations part was key to a good experience for all. Two runs down the bunny slope. About 20 minutes total, so the fact she’s still in diapers wasn’t an issue. Also it helps she loves snow and doesn’t mind getting into her snow pants, mittens, etc if it means she gets to go play in snow.
I expected to be able to make a few runs while my kids were in their first lesson…..I made one, then the day went south. One kid crying with the instructor, one kid with faulty rental gear, one kid pissed for no reason other than to be a ahole and one angry wife. So yeah, spot on. Embrace the suck, don’t buy yourself a lift ticket, and be prepared to buy $45 worth of hot chocolates and a few $87 chicken finger platters. Save a few bucks by chucking a few beers in the backpack and hope the wife doesn’t get mad when you crack one under the table that took 30 min to secure.
Yeah don't even bring the skis or ski boots. I made the mistake of bringing my ski boots one time and wound up just hanging on the ski rack. Well when the day finished, I forgot I had them there. Luckily for me my custom fitted, punched, stretched and insoled boots were in the lost and found the next day.
I grew up at Smuggs, got on skis at 3 years old and haven’t stopped!
My brother started his kid on bunny slopes this year. Kid is 2. He just walked next to him on magic carpet for a couple of days. Plan is for lessons next year
We got my kid (2.5 y/o) on skis 3 times this season. 2 lessons , one time just me and him. He was able to get up the magic carpet on his own after a while and could go straight down the littlest bunny hill, but couldn't turn or stop, so I (or the instructor ) had to be ready to catch him before hit anything. He really enjoyed it, but after his last lesson he had a complete meltdown. Like the worst he's ever had, and he is typically a really chill kid. I think he was just way too over tired. Had to carry him kicking and screaming to the car, so be prepared for that possibility. He passed out in his seat before we left the parking lot.
Kids ski instructor here. He needs lots of breaks and at 2 it should be an hour and a half, two max. It is absolutely exhausting for little ones.
3, lessons at 5
It depends on the kid. In my experience 2 is the youngest. 4 is average. Also temper your expectations the first year. Kids in that age range are still developing their motor skills. Some may just be able to walk on skis and others may be able to make controlled turns. Also (and this is most important) listen to your kid and go at their pace. I’ve seen quite a few parents put their kids off skiing by pushing them when they aren’t ready. Source: 25 years of ski instructor experience.
I always see these parents with the 2-6 year old in black/double black terrain. Kid terrified and crying parents frustrated they can't understand why they're terrified looking at from their narrow eye perspective what is a vertical wall. Then think to myself they probably wonder why their kids hate skiing and wanted to play some trad sport like baseball and need therapy. The best was on Spruce at Stowe, We're riding up. See this parent standing at the bottom of that little wall. Kid 3/4 the way up, tumbled and trying to stand up. Not hurt just having a melt down and over it. As we see another parent start to approach the child, my buddy yells out **"Don't touch it or it's mother won't take it back!!"** I almost fell off the lift laughing and you could hear everyone else laughing as well.
I started when I was 3. I’m 13 now and shredding
I see a lot of responses on here talking about having no expectations, and as a Kindergarten teacher for 8 years, I can't stress this enough. For starters: just have your kid around it, show them your passion for it, and give them every opportunity to join in. There's no faster way to ensure they WON'T want to do it than by forcing it on them, or making it stressful in any way. The next thing I'll add, is that long before you even think about getting them to an actual ski mountain, you should be pulling them around on skis in your backyard. Little shit like that goes a long way in building a love for the sport through memories and quality time spent together.
This is the way. I've had all three of my kids on skis once they could walk/stand. We bought strap on skis and would drag them around the backyard and at the base area of whatever mountain we were at, as long as they wanted to and only while they were into it. Also, we'd take them on lifts or gondolas and ski down holding them on mellow terrain or put them in a backpack, again, only when they were into it. Exposure is key, but on their terms. Another thing we did/do with all of them is letting them pick out their own gear. They'll look ridiculous but will love getting into their ski costume...if they love their stuff it makes getting out there so much easier. I just finished this phase with my daughter this season. It was her first season with a real setup (which she requested after a few days). She turned three in March. She skis the bunny hill with confidence and will get lessons next season. My boys are 6 and 5 and they rip. They love everything about skiing and I credit that to letting them own the experience.
2 is pretty good to get hyped up about it and start having fun. Backyard is fine if you have a small hill you can trudge up. 30 minutes and done is probably what you should shoot for. If possible, find a place that does a seasonal kid rental program where you can trade up as they grow. For my 4 year old this year (started at 2) I would take him for like an hour or two in the afternoon before closing. This gave us a natural stopping point as well which can be handy cause they don't know when to stop before melting down because they're tired. My wife or I got to ski in the morning, get lunch, then head out with the kid. On the weekends most lessons have already cleared out so it worked pretty nice. His brother will be 2 this month so will get him started this winter. The younger one is much less fearful of things because he sees his brother doing it so I suspect he'll get pushed a bit faster because he wants to keep up. Edit: also there's a huge difference between 2 and 2.5 and like 2.9 in terms of two year old.
I totally read that second paragraph thinking, wow you can trade up your kid as they grow? That’s amazing? Like, ehh, he’s really not living up to my expectations, his next birthday I’m going to that kid rental place and getting an upgrade.
Exchange reason: crying on a green trail.
I’ve given lessons to 3 year olds at our local hill. Honestly if they can kinda stand and kinda talk they’re good to go
So much good advice here but I'll throw in my two cents as well. Our son has a February birthday so I'd bring him on the magic carpet and kind of just play when he was turning 3. We didn't bother with lessons at this point because potty training was still going on and at that points like others have said it's just about getting them introduced and enjoy playing in the snow. He also rode to Gondi at Stowe with my wife will I'd ski down below them so he could see me skiing and I think that really helped. I also tend to watch a lot of skiing stuff in Youtube and Instagram and since he was 2 he always kind of snuggles up next to me and enjoys it as well. The next year (3/4 years old) we threw him in to lessons as much as we could. Stowe did full day lessons and they do a great job. Out west in Breck we went out in the spring and their lessons were done for the year but I'd take him out on the greens and he did fantastic. At this age they still don't really have the strength to really ski but it's again about building the fun! I'd always have Skittles in my pocket for every chairlift and every fall. It's all about positive motivation. My son likes to lead so he was always ahead of me and I'd kind of feather behind him to make sure no one would come by and clip him. This last year (4/5 year old) we again threw him in lessons quite a bit. Admittedly it costs a small fortune but the instructors at Stowe, Park City, and Breck did a much better job than I could. If we are on a week vacation he'd been in lessons 3 days. On the off days I'd usually go skiing in the morning then come grab him for the afternoon. At this point it's still about fun but I really saw a lot of noticeable improvement this year because he had the strength in his legs to actually improve. By the end of the year he was skiing blues from the top of Park City and skiing the trees in Breck. Just remember - positivity and patience! I may ski slower than I ever would wth my son but it's by far the most rewarding time on the mountain.
Every kid is different but I had mine walking around the yard in skis at 1 and a half, magic carpet at 2… but she didn’t really take to it till 4
Started at 1.5. He could stand up and slide about 8 ft without falling over. Went twice for maybe an hour each time. At 2 he could glide well, at 3, more of that. First day out at 4, he made a pizza, second day out was making turns. By the end of the season he could ski easy blues. This winter at 5 we stuck with blues and added some easy trees. I’ve learned he listens better to instructors than dad. Always quit at least one before you think you should. If your kid wants to ski 4 runs and quit, go with it, you don’t want them to hate it. I used to teach kids for many years, they learn fastest at between 7 and 12. Every year you wait for the first experience they learn faster. At 2 you might make turns after a whole season. At 3 the kid might be able to ski greens at the end of the season, mine did not. At 4 it usually takes 4-5 days, at 5/6 about 2-3 days, at 7 they will ski the beginner slope in a day.
Started mine at 3
I was 3 when I started. Haven't missed a season since.
Had all 3 of my daughters on the magic carpet at 2. We’d go a couple times a week and just walked next to them. Just get them used to sliding on their feet at first, then snow plowing. As soon as they can turn each direction on command and stop, get them on the lift. From there they exponentially improve. Always keep it fun. As soon as my wife and I sensed frustration, we left. We never did lessons. Skiing is pretty intuitive for kids and the whole point was to foster a love for it and have something to do with them for life. Now my girls are 12, 10, and 8. The older 2 just competed and medalled at National Championships for freeride and park! They’re getting their first lessons for park stuff now because they want the extra help.
I started at 4-5, def could’ve (and wished) I had done earlier. Save up all your patience! It sometimes takes an hour to get out there, and then it’s… I have to go to the bathroom, or I’m starving! Line your coat with snacks, to squash food breaks and use candy as rewards! It’s rewarding to get them out there and watch them grow. Hardest thing I did as a parent though! I taught two kids on my own.
My sister-and brother-in-law tried to get our niece out two winters ago at age 3. Her ticket was free so at the end of the day they’d bring her out to the magic carpet, and it didn’t go well. Fast forward to last winter at 4, and she had a blast! They put her in lessons for most of the day and then we’d pick her up mid afternoon and ski with her until she wanted to quit (which was usually when lifts closed). We also have a little one on the way (due the 27th) and my (way too early) plan is to see how it goes in the yard before even considering to bring him to the mountain. Can’t wait to ski with him though (he better love it 😂)!
I put both my kids on skis at 2. Used an edge wedgie to cheat a bit but by the end of the season when he was almost 3 he was doing blues without it. We went every weekend though.
The "every weekend" thing seems to be key. My wife was NOT a skier when we met. We went together a couple of times a year for 4 years or so and she still didn't like it and never got beyond total beginner level. We (I, really) got a season pass at a local hill and started going every weekend, and by the end of the season she was hooked on the sport and a solid blue square skier, and a couple of years later she was embracing the hard stuff at Jay.
This was my wife's first year too. She didn't go every weekend with us but she did go at least twice a month. She's still the easiest green on the mountain skier. When it comes to adults there's a huge fear factor they need to get over and she's still working on that.
So much good advice on here already but first and foremost just temper all expectations. We did an 8-week lesson program for our 5-year-old and decided to teach our two and a half-year-old at the same time. By the end of the season our 5-year-old was completely hooked and wanted to be on the hill non-stop. He was able to steer and stop on his own on all of the green runs and most of the blue runs without help. Contrast that with our 2.5 year-old. By the end of the season she could do the magic carpet by herself and slide down the Bunny Hill, but she was still unable to consistently stop on her own, and had a hard limit of about 60 minutes on the hill. If we wanted to take her on a Green run she could do the easiest ones but we had to have her in one of those harness leash things which she didn't really like. My husband and I both like to ski so we did a lot of divide and conquer with the kids. But it's a lot of work and it does take a lot of the fun and recreation out of skiing for the parents. You have to think of it as a long-term investment and something that your family will enjoy together so much when your kids are big enough to be more autonomous on the hill. Videos for tax purposes! 5 year old: https://imgur.com/a/CtRwbxF 2.5 year old: https://imgur.com/a/NTqEaz2
You can do 2 but only if you are dying to. Really just make sure they are getting laps regularly when they are 5 and you will be good to go. Not much carryover between seasons before that.
I started at 3 and haven’t missed a season in 25 years
I have seen some really young kids out there, like 4 or 5, and they have a good time. I started my kids at 7 and 8 (they are a year apart) and that was great. They were old enough to take instruction but young enough to relax and enjoy. Both were skiing black diamonds 3 years later maybe. My daughter progressed faster (ski camp) but both were quite good by middle school.
We had our daughter on the hill at 20 months in December. 2 runs a day for 4 days. Learn to ski area shuttle at killington. We each held a hand and were just trying to get her used to having skis on her feet and keeping weight on her legs.
Started my son at 3 and he really enjoyed it. This was our second year and he rode the chairlift.
I started the kids on the ski leash at 2.5, got them used to sliding, got them sliding on their own, then started lessons at 5.
Fine to start at 2-3. Definitely start before 5-6.
Mine learned at 2-1/2 and took to it instinctively. Had no problem turning & skiing where they wanted to go after a few days on skis.
I love this thread! I was born in Lincoln, NH. By the time I was two, my parents had me in ski school because it was cheaper than daycare and closer to my house. Fast forward 40 years, and I have started both of my kids at the same age of 2. My youngest is now 11 and has almost a decade of experience on the slopes! It really pays to start them with something they can enjoy as young as possible while still being safe!
Mine were 4 and 3. It can be tedious, but I always viewed it as an investment. Now they’re older and we can go on trips and they’re better than me!
Having taught a lot of little kids over the years as a ski instructor, two is generally a little bit young. They don't have that dexterity or the muscle to do much with the skis or learn anything. Yes, there are a few wild exceptions out there of kids learning to rip when they're two years old but that's very rare. The best you can hope for is having him out there for an hour or so just messing around with them between your legs going down the bunny slope. Actually learning to ski and doing it on their own doesn't happen till at least three maybe better at 4.
my son was 10 months when he was on skis. He took 3 runs down the bunny hill with me. Afterwards, i pulled him around on a sled for another half hour and went home.
I was towing mine on a snowboard at 3, and I've seen some even younger. My other one hopped on a snowboard at 6 and just took to it instantly.
I was a ski instructor for about 4 years. If you plan on going the lessons route, waiting until 6 or so is probably the best financial decision. If you are a good skier and plan to do the teaching yourself, 2.5-3 is probably ok to start things. I’d recommend maybe just putting on boots the first day. Playing in the snow. Slowly build from there. Play games , things like “red light green light” are great for kids to keep engagement and practice stopping. I would also try to keep sessions short at first, maybe a half hour or so, then a break and something to eat. Best of luck !!
Start in your back yard or the local park - you don’t need to drive all the way to a mountain to teach them how to put boots on and skate around a little bit. 2 or 3 years old works. Helps if they see an older kid doing it.
At 3, my son had zero interest. We tried a couple of times and he just hated everything to do with ski boots. At 4 he decided he wanted to snowboard like his sisters and so we did a season rental. We did about 3 lessons and then we slowly worked him up to being able to go on the lift 1/2. Little buddy and I would go after preschool for a couple runs a few days a week and by the end of season he was on blues with no problem. He had days when he wanted to go for 5 or 6 runs and days when he did 1 and was pissed his favorite run was closed and he was done.
had mine on a snowboard at 16 months. Doesnt mean he was snowboarding but he was out there having a good time. Hot chocolate and snacks are key, at this age its just about getting them out into the scene and cultivating it as a place they want to be - not actually "improving" or learning to ride.
If they can walk, you can find gear that fits them, and there's snow on the ground.
Two years old worked for us. Just getting him to the hill the first time seemed like a win. He did great and the first day we did one run on the bunny hill and he sort of tolerated it enough that we thought maybe we could try again. The good thing about being a passholder at a hill where tots ski free is that if you're willing to commit to the ride, you can keep introducing them to the snow over and over, which seems to be magic, vs one big trip with high expectations. Fast forward that season, and forgive the dad-brag, but here's another perspective - be prepared for them to absolutely love it and ski themselves stupid. By the third time we went, we did 12 "runs" and he was screaming at me to "do it myself" (get on and off the carpet lift, which he did) and day only ended because he was exhausted. We had to bribe him to get **off** the hill. Tears, screaming "one more run," that whole scene. We ended up going 10 times this season, and by the end we lost count of how many runs we did each day. Physically, he never got much beyond straightlining, pizza/french fries was a bit beyond his understanding, but he stood up and skied straight pretty easily. So, yes, 2 is a good age to start.
2.5 me
I had bunny slope action going on the harness when both kids were about 2-2.5. I really enjoyed teaching my kids to ski with the harness and even though I was stuck on lower mountain greens, it was just a blast to see them learn and pick up the sport.
As early as you can keep them warm and entertained. Adjust accordingly
7. Before that is is incredibly frustrating. It can be done, but not worth the effort unless you are one of those pro skiiers who must have their kids with them all the time..
I got my little one out at 2. The first few times it was just enjoying the snow. And a couple fits on how'd she rather hump into snow and make angels. But every time we made it a point to put on skis. Even if it was only 1 little run. Always make sure to get the skis involved for that connection. Be patient and enjoy how they evolve. Almost every time they get better. Some times you will get a bad day where they simply don't want to ski at all. They will conquer the slopes at their own pace just like you and I. If you have a local mountain that's easy to get to try going out twice a week but at least once a week is good depending on conditions. This winter season she will be turning 7 and going into the rave team development program. I'm not expecting her to get real competitive or racey but to get the interaction of skiing with other kids and learning from the coaches and instructors. Dad can only explain so much without being an instructor lol
Oh and forget about skiing lol I put my boots and ended up jogging alongside every time. Then carry her up the slope and then again. Please don't do this during a busy day. We are lucky to have our local mountain open at night midweek and be completely dead. 2 hours max at that age. If that lol it's so much fun though.
Took my 1.5 yr old on the mtn 5 times this year. Prepped for months putting gear on inside, dragging around carpet, goggles/ helmet on and off, lots of seeing what works and doesnt. It really helped when he got on the mtn. Gear was easy to put on and comfortable, he was excited since we did it inside everyday for months. Walked him up bunny slopes, magic carpet, etc. last 2 days we were on the lift. He snowboarded though, hasnt touched skis
I had my kid on skis and on harness age 1. At age 2 he’s still on a harness but his balance is amazing and we are doing rollers. I’d say 2, but keep your expectations low
If you can, put them in cross country skiing first. They’ll learn so much about how to move their bodies, how to balance and how to get back up, and it makes their first downhill skiing a breeze. Our local Nordic centre had a ski program for like $60/winter and finding used gear was easy, so we didn’t feel like we wasted any time or money because they were really comfortable on skis the first time we went downhill. We had ours on skis by 3. They’re now 9 and 12, and the 12 yo can definitely out-ski us, with the 9yo not far behind. Just beware, if you start them so young they’ll want to ski all the time and you can just kiss your paycheque goodbye.
I'm late the party hear but the ideal age will depend somewhat on the kid and on your interest in doing many short sessions. If you get snow at your house backyard sessions are fun as soon as they can walk. When you go to the hill you want to again start wih short sessions. There are a variety of different progressions you can use -harness with leash vs. ski pole side-by-side vs. between the legs. Usually best to start by walking up, then go to the magic carpet/rope tow, then go to a slow and low chair with some greens. You will again appreciate the steepness of different slopes. Even blues can be scary steep. And kids won't be able to independently load the chair for a long time though so plan to have a lifting harness for a while. There's decent ski school programs that have a dialed in progression and peers to play with / learn from / emulate. Those usually require the kid be potty trained and 3-4 to start.