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Ski vacations make fantastic family vacations. They are the perfect way for a growing and changing family to stay connected and close as the years pass by. Taking young children on their first ski vacation can be challenging and will certainly be a very different experience than any pre-children trips.

The importance of good planning and preparation cannot be overstated. To a young child, a ski resort can seem incredibly daunting and confusing. If you are lucky enough to be at a resort in the mountains, and your children are new to the altitude and sheer enormity of the landscape before them, it is easy for a young child to feel overwhelmed well before they have ever set foot on a ski run.

Altitude can affect children quickly and easily, leaving them feeling dizzy, nauseous and fatigued. Making sure they stay hydrated at all times and keeping their food intake up with plenty of snacks can help reduce any problems, but be vigilant and make sure their symptoms don't worsen.

Dressing your child correctly for the weather is the next point to take care of. Dress them in layers, and make sure that their clothing fits snuggly but not too tightly. A good snow suit is essential, along with a hat that covers their ears. Also waterproof mittens and boots for use when they are not wearing their skis. Keeping hands and feet dry and warm is essential if you are to have any success helping your children learn to ski.

Children grow so rapidly, that unless you live close to a ski hill and know you will make frequent use of them, there is little point in buying kids ski equipment. Instead, rent boots and skis from a reputable outlet. They will measure your child's height and weight and fit them appropriately.

The next step is to make sure your child is comfortable with their equipment. Explain how bindings work and practice getting into and out of them. It is worth the effort to go through these seemingly simple preparations. Next have them experiment with feeling their skis slide along the snow. If you are a competent skier you may choose to teach your children yourself. However, if you are at all nervous, chances are your child will pick up on that and be nervous themselves.

Fortunately there are plenty of fantastic kids ski programs and ski schools, staffed by well qualified and enthusiastic teachers, who will teach your children the ins and outs of the slopes in no time at all. In the right environment children are fast learners. With their lower center of balance and better flexibility children often learn at an incredible pace. After just a few lessons, they will likely be ready to tackle just about any green slope with the rest of the family. Lessons are a great investment and an ideal way to make sure your kids are safe on the slopes.

Learn more about this author, Julie Wood.
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