How to Teach Kids to Downhill Ski

Skiing can be a rewarding winter pastime to learn at an early age. Ski resorts around the world are full of skiers of all ages. If you're an experienced skier, you can teach your kids to downhill ski.

Things You'll Need

  • Skis
  • Ski poles
  • Ski boots
  • Ski goggles
  • Snowsuit
  • Mittens
  • Helmet
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Instructions

    • 1
      Show your child how to put on the ski equipment.

      Show your child how to put on the ski equipment indoors. Have him stand on a soft, carpeted surface while putting on the equipment. Give him time to get used to the feel of the equipment. Instruct him to walk in the ski boots to practice his balance. As with any sport, it is important to get used to wearing the equipment before actually trying the activity.

    • 2

      Drive to a ski slope with your child. If there is a small hill used for sledding in your area, take your child there before going to an actual mountain or large hill.

    • 3
      Help your child put the ski equipment on.

      Dress your child in his or her snowsuit and mittens, and help him put the ski equipment on, including ski goggles and a helmet.

    • 4
      Show the child how to use the poles to propel through the snow and glide on her skis.

      Work on the child's balance and rhythm by encouraging her to lift one ski in the air and stand on the other for several seconds at a time, and then alternate. Show the child how to use the poles to propel through the snow and glide on her skis.

    • 5
      If you are at a ski slope, ride the ski tow or ski lift to the top of the beginner hill.

      If you are at a sledding hill, walk with the child to the top of the hill. If you are at a ski slope, ride the ski tow or ski lift to the top of the beginner hill, also known as the bunny slope.

    • 6
      Demonstrate the snowplow technique.

      Demonstrate the snowplow technique. Bend your knees slightly and point your toes together so your skis form a "v" shape. Encourage the child to practice this pose on level ground until he feels comfortable.

    • 7
      When the child is ready, tell him to ski down the hill using the snowplow technique.

      Glide on your skis 10 feet down the hill. When the child is ready, tell him to ski down the hill using the snowplow technique. Grab the child when he or she gets close enough so he doesn't lose control of his speed. Repeat this process several times until the child is comfortable with the technique.

    • 8

      Teach the child to turn on his skis. Show the child how to lean her weight to one side, thereby placing more weight on one ski to help pivot for the turn. Show the child how to help make the turn by digging in with one ski pole and pushing to the opposite side. Build up to a point where your child can descend a small hill with several stops, then fewer stops and finally, without stopping at all.

    • 9

      Ski down the hill slowly and have the child mimic your turns and movements behind you.

    • 10
      Enroll the child in a beginner's ski class.

      Enroll the child in a beginner's ski class at a ski slope to learn more advanced downhill skiing techniques.