Tools for Training a Toddler in Skiing

For many, skiing is a lifestyle sport more than it is a recreational activity. You want to get as much time on the snow as you can. Once you have children, that means one thing: you'd better teach them how to ski early so they develop the skills and passion to share in your favorite hobby. While teaching toddlers and small children is a challenge, there are many tools that will aid you.

  1. Tip Locks

    • Ski tip locks, sometimes called "edgie wedgies," secure the front of the two skis to keep the tips together and provide better stability for your child. Your child won't be so free to move the tips in various directions and will be kept in the wedge position, which will help your child learn. Some tip locks double as a ski carriers, allowing you to carry multiple pairs of skis in one hand -- something you'll be glad of when it comes time to haul your children's skis back to the car after a long day.

    Ski Lift Harness

    • One of the most intimidating parts about skiing -- for children or adults -- is the getting on and off the ski lift. To help make this less worrisome and more seamless for your child, consider purchasing a harness. Harnesses wrap around your child's body and have a handle on the back so that you can lift your child when loading and unloading the lift. Your child will feel more at ease and you'll be able to guarantee her safety. The harness can also help while skiing, allowing you to quickly pick your child up and get her back on her way.

    Ski Leash

    • Like a ski harness, a ski leash will allow you to guide your child's learning process, only the leash will be used when actually skiing. You'll be able to follow closely behind your child to monitor his progress while using the leash to help him with turning and maintaining speed. Your child will be safer and you'll get to be hands-on in teaching him how to turn and navigate. Leashes often work in conjunction with ski lift harnesses.

    Ski Wedge Lock

    • Ski wedge locks work in conjunction with tip locks to provide even more form and stability to your child's skis. The wedge lock connects in the middle of the two skis and serves to keep your child's feet apart, ensuring that she remains in wedge position. The stability will help your child to lean into turns and should hasten the learning curve for standing and turning on skis.