They’re the age-old questions: Skiing or snowboarding? Which pass do you get? Where do you go? When is the right time to start bringing the kids? 

One of the most common things snow-loving parents ask is, “When can kids start skiing or snowboarding?” It’s a great question! Getting your little ones on the slopes as early as possible opens up a lifetime of winter fun. 

3 to 5 years old is a great age to teach kids how to ski or snowboard, and the typical age kids start ski school, but there’s no exact perfect age. Every kid develops differently. 

While some avid skier parents might take their 1 ½ year olds along, swaddled in baby backpacks, most skiing and snowboarding schools require a child to be at least three years old and potty-trained to be in a group lesson. At age 3, most kids can be pretty fearless. They are also little sponges that constantly soak up information and new skills, making for a good balance when learning how to ski or snowboard. They’re better primed for learning than an adult and are adaptable and excited. 

Tips for Teaching Young Kids

For the most part, teaching little ones to ski or snowboard is about getting them familiar with the equipment and the feel of gliding on snow. Once they get that gliding feeling down, they can advance to riding the chairlift. A lesson with a qualified instructor is always a good idea considering kids need hands-on help to get the hang of things. Instead of telling a 4 year old to turn left (a direction that might confuse them), a seasoned instructor (or intrepid parent) will use stickers, colors, or props to help give directions in a fun, low-stress atmosphere.

Keeping kids comfortable is essential when a child is learning. If they are feeling cold or hungry, they are likely to get upset or angry, making the experience much more difficult and sometimes impossible. It’s also important not to force the issue. ODn’t make a 3 or 4 year old think they have to go skiing or snowboarding. Instead, shoot to make them want to go, making the experience as fun as possible. 

Challenges for Kids Learning How to Ski or Snowboard

A significant initial challenge for 3 and 4 year olds on the snow is that they almost universally carry their center of gravity in their heads rather than in their core. This can make snowboarding more difficult than skiing for kids to learn, at least at younger ages. Most kids have trouble getting the mechanics of standing sideways down before age 5. That said, instructors and equipment are available to help children ages  3+ to play on the snow in any way they choose. 

Again, an uncomfortable child is always a challenge – cold and hunger are the two biggest factors in keeping kids comfy when heading down the slopes. Make sure mittens are warm, socks are doubled, and bellies are full of nutritious food. 

And remember, every kid develops differently, so there are no worries if they start later than age 3. It’s never too late, and plenty of excellent skiers and snowboarders learned a bit later in life. 

Kid-Friendly Ski Resorts In Colorado

Skiing or snowboarding in Colorado has never been safer or more enjoyable, with resorts like Breckenridge and Keystone leading the way. A lot of these family-friendly ski resorts offer dedicated learning zones, certified kids instructors, and terrain designed specifically for young snow-lovers. 

Vail

Vail is one of Colorado’s largest and most family-friendly ski resorts. They offer over 5,000 acres of terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. The resort features three unique base villages, perfect for families. Shopping, dining, and ice skating are all there, with other family-focused amenities, making it ideal for an unforgettable Colorado ski vacation. 

Keystone

Designed with families in mind, Keystone offers affordable accommodations, slope-side convenience, and extensive kid-friendly activities. Families can enjoy ski and ride lessons, take the Gondola to the World’s Largest Mountaintop Snow Fort, go snow tubing, ice skating, and choose from on-mountain dining options that appeal to all ages. 

Keystone also has a Kids Ski Free program, which allows children aged 12 and under to ski for free every day, all season long. Additionally, they feature Kidtopia, Kids Adventure Zones designed to teach young skiers new skills and improve their confidence while on the mountain. 

Breckenridge

Combining Colorado’s rich mining history with world-class skiing, Breckenridge is perfect for families. Just 90 minutes from Denver, Breckenridge offers easy access and lifts that drop families right into the heart of town. Beginners can explore gentle slopes, while more advanced kids can tackle the Five Peaks. Breckenridge also provides a charming mountain town atmosphere, offering shops, dining, and ski activities for the whole fam.