Skiing with children is one of the most popular winter activities, but many parents have concerns about whether a ski vacation with kids is the right choice, especially if they themselves have little or no skiing experience. Often, parents worry that they might be depriving their children of an experience by not going on a ski trip. In this blog post, we’ll address the most common misconceptions and show how a ski vacation in Davos Klosters can become a memorable adventure for the entire family.
The Five Most Common Misconceptions About Skiing with Kids
- Skiing in Davos is only for the wealthy.
- Kids spend more time on lifts or in expensive restaurants than on the slopes.
- The cold and bulky clothing make skiing uncomfortable.
- Children forget everything they learned in ski school by the next season.
- The athletic benefits of skiing are limited.
It’s true that a ski vacation comes with costs, but with proper planning, families can enjoy a fun and affordable winter getaway in Davos Klosters.
1. Preparation: How to Make Your Ski Vacation with Kids a Success
1.1 Small Children, Snow, and Cold Weather
Before booking a ski trip, it’s important to consider whether your child truly enjoys the snow and cold weather. While many kids love the snow, some are more sensitive to cold, which can make the trip challenging. Ask yourself these questions:
- Do my kids enjoy snow and cold temperatures?
- Can they handle wearing thick winter clothing and gloves comfortably?
- Are they able to give early notice when they need to use the bathroom?
- Are they comfortable interacting with unfamiliar adults, like ski instructors?
1.2 Weather-Appropriate Clothing
The layering principle is the best way to keep children warm without restricting their movement. Multiple thin layers help regulate body temperature more effectively than one thick layer.
A good example of appropriate clothing is long-sleeved merino wool base layers. For sensitive skin, wool-silk blends are a great option. The outer layer should be windproof and waterproof – a summer hiking jacket can work well for this. Make sure long underwear does not bunch up in the ski boots, as this can cause painful pressure points.With ski socks, only wear one pair to avoid discomfort caused by multiple layers folding in the boots.
Tip: Mittens keep hands warmer than gloves and also provide room for hand warmers, which are especially useful on very cold days. Hand warmers are a simple way to keep fingers from getting too cold. Give your child some to carry, and let the ski instructor know they have them.
1.3 When Should Children Start Skiing?
The right age for skiing depends on the child’s development. Some children can start skiing as early as 3 or 4 years old, while others may need more time. For families without expert skiers, it’s often best to start skiing around age 5 or 6, when children can better assess risks and attend ski school independently.
1.4 Finding the Right Accommodation
A nearby accommodation is essential, especially if the kids get tired or the weather turns bad. The lodging should be no more than 30 minutes from the slopes. Also, ensure there’s enough space for relaxing evenings indoors with the family.
For accommodation suggestions in Davos, check out our blog post The Best Hotels in Davos.
1.5 Motivation for the Ski Trip
It’s important that both parents and kids are excited about the ski trip. If no one is really enthusiastic, it may be better to consider a different vacation. However, if there is excitement, everyone will be more willing to take on the preparation and costs.
2. Equipment: Getting the Right Gear for Your Ski Trip
The right ski equipment starts with the helmet and ends with the skis. Here are some key tips:
- Helmet: Ensure that the helmet fits well and that your child likes it. For younger children, there are helmet covers with stuffed animals that make the experience even more fun.
- Balaclava or neck gaiter: Never use a scarf, as it can get caught in the ski lift and pose a strangulation risk.
- Ski goggles: The bigger, the better. Larger goggles protect the face more effectively and can be used for several years. Avoid mirrored lenses, as they scratch easily and are more expensive.
- Ski boots: Properly fitting ski boots are the most important part of the equipment. It’s recommended to rent ski boots for children, as they grow quickly. Never buy ski boots without trying them on first.
- Skis: Used skis are a great option, but make sure the bindings are no older than two years. Have the bindings adjusted to your child’s weight and skill level at a sports store.
For more information on the best ski rentals in Davos, check out this post: The Best Ski Rentals in Davos.
3. Tips for the Slopes
3.1 Additional Costs
A ski trip with kids often comes with extra costs. In addition to lift tickets, you’ll also need to factor in ski school fees and rental equipment. To save money, consider booking package deals that include ski school and equipment rental.
Kids tend to need more frequent breaks, so it’s always a good idea to pack small snacks like nuts, mini salamis, or a thermos of hot cocoa to keep them energized throughout the day.
3.2 Choosing the Right Ski School
A great ski school is essential for kids learning to ski. The Ride and Smile Ski and Snowboard School is highly recommended, offering experienced instructors who make learning fun with positive teaching methods.
Our excellent reviews on TripAdvisor speak to the quality of our services.
3.3 The Ideal Ski Area
Smaller ski areas like Rinerhorn in Davos or Madrisa in Klosters are perfect for families with children. They offer a relaxed atmosphere and family-friendly slopes. You can find more information on the best ski areas in Davos here: SkiAreas in Davos.
4. What to Do When the Kids Want a Break from Skiing
Not all families spend the entire day on the slopes. When it gets dark early, there are many ways to make the most of your time indoors:
4.1 Board Games and Card Games
Classic games like Monopoly and Uno are a great way to enjoy quality time with the family in the evenings.
4.2 Reading Books
Reading stories together is a lovely way to unwind after a day of skiing. Books like “The Little Dragon Coconut” or “Petterson and Findus” are great options for different age groups.
4.3 Puzzles and Crafts
Puzzles are a wonderful way to keep kids entertained after skiing. Craft supplies like colored pencils and paper can also encourage creativity.
5. Other Snow Activities in Davos
Aside from skiing, Davos offers many other winter activities for the whole family. Options include ice skating, sledding, horse-drawn carriage rides, or a visit to the indoor swimming pool.
For more inspiration, check out our blog post: The Best Winter Activities in Davos.
