Are group ski lessons for kids really worth it? Do kids actually learn anything or is it just glorified babysitting so that parents can get some alone time on the mountain? We’re about to explore the benefits of group ski lessons for kids and why we believe they are the recipe for a successful ski holiday together as a family.
The Benefits of Group Ski Lessons for Kids
- A safer learning environment
- More enjoyment
- Sociable
- Quicker progression
A safe learning environment
As much as we know you’d like to be the one teaching your kids to ski (or maybe not!) it’s true that kids learn quicker from their peers and away from their parents. Children are more likely to have a good time and enjoy playing and having fun in the snow alongside their new pals, rather than clinging to their parents.
Ski Instructors in Europe have to undergo safeguarding courses, first aid courses and are fully qualified, meaning they have been through rigorous training for years and know how to keep kids safe on the mountain. They also ensure kids learn the fundamental skills like how to clip into their skis, how to side step and carry their own skis so they can be more independent on the mountain. (Plus as a parent it saves you having to carry everyone’s skis, sweating in your thermals before you’ve even started sliding! Not ideal.)
It’s essential that kids begin to learn in a safe environment, like a magic carpet area or a beginners slope where the terrain is mellow and they can gradually come to stop even before they have mastered their snowplough. Most resorts have these specific areas set up and are essential to building confidence, and allowing kids to play and have fun, out of the way of other busy slopes.
Sociable
Ski lessons for kids are not only an important part of their development as skiers, but also as independent individuals. In a group setting, children are able to learn from one another and build relationships with other like-minded kids.
This sense of camaraderie and support is essential in helping them to progress and become confident skiers.
More Enjoyment
Kid’s have way more fun in a group environment and lap up the ski instructor’s energy each day. You’ll know when they have had a good time because you won’t be able to get a word in when you pick them up at the end of the day. Ski Instructors know when to take breaks to keep them fuelled, when to play more instead of teaching to keep them engaged and much more.
Instructors also have great analogies for teaching kids certain drills so they can understand things in a playful manner as it’s true they learn in a different way.
Quicker progression
In addition to the social benefits, group ski lessons for kids are also great from a practical perspective. Ski schools tend to have a high ratio of instructors to students, which means that each child gets the individual attention they need to learn at their own pace. Ski instructors are also able to provide feedback and guidance to parents on how their child is progressing, which can be really helpful in terms of setting realistic expectations for the rest of the holiday.
Adding ski lessons onto the bill for your holiday is always going to cost more, but the benefits of group ski lessons for kids far outweigh the cost and we strongly believe that the sooner they begin ski school, the easier the transition will be. And the more enjoyment they will gain from the slopes for the rest of their lives.
So there you have it – group ski lessons for kids are not only a lot of fun, but they’re also an important part of their development as skiers. So next time you’re planning a family ski trip, be sure to sign them up for some group lessons! They’ll thank you for it in the long run. And if you’re skiing in Europe, sign your kids up for group ski lessons with us! We’re based in over 20 resorts across the Alps and have a range of lessons for every level of skier from 4 years upwards.
Want to make the most of family time on the slopes?
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