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Skiing with toddlers might sound like an adventure in itself—slightly chaotic, possibly snowy, and definitely full of surprises. But with a little preparation, patience, and some pre-trip practice, you can set your little ones up for a successful (and fun) day on the slopes. We've learned a lot teaching our own 2 and 4 year olds to ski this season, so here are our top tips for skiing with toddlers—because while they might not be racing down the black diamonds anytime soon, they can certainly enjoy the ride!
1. Start with Seasonal Rentals—But BUY the Helmet!
Ski gear can be an investment, especially when your toddler is still growing. We highly recommend starting with seasonal rentals for skis and boots, which is often cheaper than renting for just a weekend at the mountain. Plus, seasonal rentals allow you to switch out sizes throughout the season without having to worry about outgrowing equipment mid-trip.
The one thing we don't recommend renting? Helmets. While rentals might seem convenient, helmets should be replaced after a significant impact since their internal foam can lose effectiveness. It's a small investment for something that keeps your little one safe. You can find great options that fit properly, which will help your toddler feel secure and comfortable while learning the ropes.
2. Break in the Boots—Seriously!
We’ve all seen the discomfort that comes with ski boots, and we know adults often struggle with them. So imagine how your toddler feels the first time they try them on! To avoid meltdowns at the mountain, break in their boots ahead of time. Have your toddler wear them around the house to get used to how they feel. Let them walk, climb, and play in them, even if they only last a few minutes the first time. The more they practice wearing them, the better they'll tolerate them once you're on the slopes. You might even be surprised at how long they keep them on once they’ve gotten used to the feel!
3. Practice Inside First
Skiing might seem daunting, but you can introduce your toddler to the motions before you even get to the mountain. One of our favorite tricks is practicing on carpet indoors. You can help them get a feel for gliding skis forward by sliding them across a rug or soft carpet. Practice making a "pizza" (the wedge shape) to stop or "french fries" (straight skis) to go fast. Make it fun! If you’re feeling extra creative, pull up a POV skiing video on YouTube, and have them time their steps to match the skiing moves. This can get them excited and ready to hit the real slopes with confidence!
4. Hype it Up!
Toddlers can be unpredictable, but one thing they love is praise and excitement. Make sure to hype up the experience from the moment you mention the trip. Talk about how awesome their boots look and how they’ll be just like the big kids. Cheer them on when they time the moves just right, even if it's just on the carpet or a tiny backyard hill on a snow day. Remind them of all the fun things they’ll see on the mountain—snow, trees, maybe even a snowman! Positive reinforcement can go a long way in getting your toddler to enjoy skiing more than they might expect. A little enthusiasm is contagious!
5. Gear Up for Comfort and Safety
This one’s huge! When it comes to skiing with toddlers, having the right gear isn’t just about warm, waterproof clothing—it’s also about the tools that keep them safe and comfortable on the slopes! This could easily be a whole blog post in itself, so we've put together a section of our Amazon Storefront with the gear we recommend- such as our favorite harness with a built-in backpack! These harnesses help you guide and support your toddler as they learn to ski, making it easier for them to stay on track (literally!). It's also a great way to bring along snacks—trust us, you'll be glad you stocked up to keep the energy high and the mood light between runs.
6. Play "I Spy" on the Lift
You know how the ski lift can sometimes feel like an eternity? With toddlers, this time can drag on even more! Our family’s favorite way to pass the time is playing “I Spy” while on the lift. It’s a great way to keep their minds occupied while taking in the scenery. Look out for trees, snowmen, wildlife, or even fellow skiers. It’s a simple game, but it keeps things fun while giving everyone a chance to relax for a moment.
7. Start Small and Build Confidence
It’s tempting to head straight to your favorite ski resort, but if you’re new to skiing with toddlers, we recommend starting small. Research local mountains and find those that offer beginner-friendly slopes. Some places, like West Mountain in upstate New York, even offer discounts for bunny hill-only tickets, and some don’t require lift tickets for kids under a certain age (West Mountain, for example, doesn’t require a ticket for kids until they turn 7!). Starting small and focusing on building confidence will make for a less stressful experience and leave everyone with positive memories to build on for next time.
Final Thoughts:
Skiing with toddlers can definitely be a challenge, but it’s also one of the most rewarding experiences you’ll have as a family. With the right mindset and some careful preparation, you’ll find that the day will be full of joy, excitement, and yes—maybe a few tumbles along the way! But these are the moments that build resilience, laughter, and a love for the outdoors. Get ready to make some amazing memories on the slopes!
Happy skiing! ❄️⛷️
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