There’s nothing quite like seeing your child take their first wobbly glide down a snowy slope—their cheeks rosy, laughter echoing and confidence growing with every run. Skiing with kids can be one of the most rewarding family adventures of the winter—if you’re prepared.
Whether you’re hitting Mount Washington here on Vancouver Island or heading to the mainland for a weekend in Whistler or Cypress, a little planning goes a long way. With the right mindset and preparation, family ski trips can be full of fun, not frustration.
Start Slow
If your child is new to skiing, shorter is better. Think of heading to the hills for a morning adventure rather than a full-day marathon. The key is to stop while everyone’s still happy—even if you only get in a few runs.
Start on the bunny hill and cheer on every success. A little confidence goes a long way, and a few easy wins will make them eager to try again next time.
Dress for the Slopes
Cold kids are typically cranky kids. Proper layers are your best friend on the slopes—a thermal base, a cozy fleece and a waterproof outer layer. Add insulated mittens, a neck warmer and a good helmet. And don’t forget to pack extras because, somehow, gloves always get lost, and socks always get soaked.
Tuck a couple of hand warmers into your jacket, too. They’re like gold when little fingers start freezing.
Invest in a Lesson
Even if you’re an experienced skier, ski school is worth every dime for your kids. Instructors know exactly how to make learning fun, and as most of us know, kids often listen better to anyone but their parents.
Keep Your Expectations Realistic
Let’s be honest: Not every ski day will be perfect. There will be forgotten mittens, cold toes and quite likely tears. That’s okay. Take lots of breaks, keep it calm and don’t force it if everyone’s had enough.
Sometimes, the best memories come from snowball fights in the parking lot or sipping hot chocolate in the lodge instead of hitting every ski run.
Snacks Are the Secret Weapon
Pack a stash of easy, pocket-friendly foods (granola bars, trail mix, cheese sticks or fruit gummies). Keep them in an inside pocket so they stay soft and don’t get wet. Hungry kids lose motivation fast, and mountain food lines can be long.
Make the Journey Part of the Adventure
If you’re heading off-island, the trip can be part of the fun. Catching the ferry, spotting seals and grabbing a warm drink at the ferry terminal can turn a ski weekend into a mini family vacation. Even if you’re just making the trip to Mount Washington on island, pick a fun, scenic place midway there to grab a special treat and take some pictures.
Capture & Celebrate the Little Wins
Whether your child mastered the art of snowman making or made it all the way down the hill smiling, celebrate it! Take photos, laugh together and talk about the day’s adventures on the drive home. Those small victories are what fuel a lifelong love of the outdoors.
You’re not just teaching them to ski—you’re teaching them resilience, courage and joy in trying new things.
Pack Smart & Keep the Car Cozy
A well-packed car can save your sanity. Use bins to separate gear, snacks and dry clothes. Bring a cozy change of clothes and maybe a blanket for the ride home—nothing feels better after a day on the slopes.
If you’re driving up a mountain like Washington, make sure your vehicle is winter-ready with snow tires and an emergency kit.
In the end, skiing with kids isn’t about perfect turns or long runs, it’s about time together. So, pack the snacks, embrace the chaos and hit the slopes. You might just start a family tradition that lasts long after the snow melts.
As a way to keep things affordable, check out the SnowStart Kidz Pass. Available for kids ages six to 12, it allows three visits at each of the 60 participating ski areas across Canada—that’s more than 180 lift tickets so it’s like carrying a season’s worth of skiing in your pocket, all for $39.99 + tax!”
