Are you contemplating getting your kid(s) started in either skiing or snowboarding? Being that Canada is a winter wonderland, these sports are fantastic for building confidence, improving coordination, and enjoying family time outdoors. If your family is ready to hit the slopes (for kids skiing or snowboarding specifically) this guide will help you get started on the right foot.

Prepping for the First Lesson

Before your kids’ skiing or snowboarding lesson(s), a little preparation will go a long way in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are some highly recommended tips:

Dress to Stay Warm

Winter sports are all about base layers, mid layers and an outer layer! Kids need a waterproof jacket and pants, insulated gloves or mittens, and a warm hat or balaclava. Ensure their base layers are made of moisture-wicking materials like merino wool or synthetic fabrics. Don’t forget ski socks—these are thinner than regular socks to fit snugly in boots.

Hydrate and Fuel Up By Having A Few Snacks Prepared

Outdoor activities in the cold require energy. Make sure your child eats a hearty breakfast and drinks plenty of water to stay hydrated. In a pack, also make sure you have some snacks like granola bars, nuts, dried fruits, or squeeze packs, in case the hunger kicks in after you’ve started skiing or snowboarding.

Talk About Safety

Teach your kids about basic slope etiquette, like staying in control, yielding to downhill skiers or riders, and being aware of their surroundings. This helps build confidence and respect on the hill. Because they are sharing the mountain with other kids at various skill levels, it’s important to emphasize that along with fun comes rules to stay safe.

Mental Preparation

Help them feel excited rather than nervous. Talk about how fun it’ll be to glide through the snow and learn a new skill. Watch videos of kids on the slopes having fun, watch tips for beginners, talk with other friends that have gone, and just let them know they can learn and go at their own pace.

Ski Gear & Equipment: Rent or Buy?

For beginners, renting things like ski boots, ski poles, snowboards, a helmet, and other gear is usually the best choice. Many resorts and local ski shops offer affordable rental packages. In general through, here’s what you’ll need:

• Skis or Snowboard: Ensure the equipment is the right size for your child. Staff at rental shops will help with proper fitting.
• Ski Boots: Comfort and fit are key. Ill-fitting boots can ruin the experience, you can wear the same boots for kids skiing or snowboarding.
• Helmet: A helmet is non-negotiable for safety. Most rental packages include a helmet.
• Ski Poles: For kids skiing, if you are taking ski lessons or just starting, younger kids may not need ski poles right away, but older beginners may use them. You can rent these as well.
• Goggles: Protect their eyes from snow glare and wind with ski/snowboard goggles; these come in kids sizes as well and are highly recommended.

If your child loves the sport after a few lessons, consider investing in their own equipment. Many shops offer seasonal rental programs or trade-in deals as kids grow.

What to Expect During the Lesson

Beginner lessons focus on the basics, like balancing, stopping, and learning to turn. For kids, the lessons are typically playful and encouraging, ensuring they’re having fun while learning essential skills. Don’t expect your child to be zipping down the slopes right away—the key is to build confidence and comfort on the snow. Kids get to different skill levels with time and confidence, the most important thing is to emphasize safety and fun.

Tips for a Fun and Stress-Free Day

1. Arrive Early
   1. Give yourself extra time to park, rent equipment, and get your child dressed before the lesson starts. Rushing can create unnecessary stress.
   1. It’s also recommended to get your lift tickets ahead of time, so you know you are guaranteed space on the mountain.
2. Pack Snacks and Drinks
   1. A small snack and a thermos of hot chocolate can be a great morale booster after the lesson.
   1. Ensure you have water for hydration as well.
3. Take Breaks
   1. Don’t push your child to stay out too long. A few short sessions on the hill can be more productive than trying to ski all day.
   1. Kids skiing, regardless of being on a bunny hill, is tiring, so be prepared to cut it short if need be.

Why Skiing and Snowboarding Are Great for Kids

Beyond being a fun outdoor activity, skiing and snowboarding teach perseverance, patience, and adaptability. They’re also excellent for physical fitness and building family traditions at all skill levels. By starting early, kids have years to develop their skills and enjoy Canada’s incredible winter landscapes.

So bundle up, hit the slopes, and watch your kids discover the joy of skiing or snowboarding. Who knows? It might just become their favourite winter activity!

Ready to Get Started? Check out beginner programs at your local hill and make this winter one to remember!

Here’s a list of some of the best Canadian Ski Hills for Beginners. Check out their websites for specific group lessons, kids ski lessons, kids private classes, and recommendations for beginner snowboarders.

Toronto Snowhawks Ski & Snowboard School: Toronto, ON

Offers certified instruction for children and adults at various mountains, including Mount St. Louis Moonstone and Blue Mountain. Programs include specialty programs, holiday programs, and destination trips.

snowhawks.com

City of Toronto Ski and Snowboard Lessons: Toronto, ON

Provides a range of lessons for all ages and abilities at Earl Bales Ski and Snowboard Centre, including Learn to Ski and Snowboard lessons, leadership courses, and race programs.

toronto.ca

Snow School at Glen Eden: Milton, ON

Offers Core Lesson programs suitable for new skiers and snowboarders, with options for weekly lessons or camps during winter and March breaks.

gleneden.on.ca

Snow Valley School Programs: Barrie, ON

Provides lessons and certification programs for school outdoor recreation excursions, focusing on fun and innovative learning environments.

skisnowvalley.com

MagicPow Ski & Snowboard Training Centre: Aurora, ON

An indoor training facility offering year-round ski and snowboard lessons for children and adults, with membership options and trial lessons.

magicpow.ca

Alpine Snow School at North Toronto Ski Club: Toronto, ON

Offers private lessons for children and adults, with options for day trips and specialized instruction.

ntsc.ca

Blue Mountain Resort Snow School: Collingwood, ON

Provides daily ski and snowboard lessons for children, including full-day group lessons for ages 7-12, with supervised lunch included.

bluemountain.ca

Evolve Snow Camps: Toronto, ON

Specializes in ski lessons, camps, and coaching programs for children, operating on Saturdays in January, February, and March at Mount St. Louis-Moonstone.

evolvecamps.com

Wherever you are in Canada, there’s likely a beginner-friendly hill/mountain nearby. Most resorts also offer family passes and special packages for lessons and rentals.

Enjoy your time on the mountain making memories!