When to Teach Your Child To Ski or Snowboard.

When I was about two years old, I remember stepping into my first pair of skis. Back then the newest technology in kids performance gear was a sweet pair of red plastic skis, a pair of boots that were way too big and my dad equipped with a thick old rope tied around my waist. And it was complete with my private ski hill- our very steep driveway!

Things have changed a bit these days and the starting age for getting kids out skiing and boarding has become younger and younger. And forget about those old plastic skis! Now companies like Volkl, Rossignol, and others make skis tiny enough for the wee beginners starting at 60+ cm. You don’t have to tie your kid up anymore but rather fit them with a great and comfy harness. And if you can’t do all the teaching, Steamboat Ski Resort along with most ski resorts have great lessons designed just for the kids.

Check out this little girl in Mammoth, CA who can’t get enough bunny runs on her Snowboard!



So what about the age thing? There really is not a set age that determines when a child can begin to ski or board. It is highly dependent on the child and your setting. Most say the earlier the better. Ava's mom is all for this philosophy! As soon as they can walk, start to get them familiar with the equipment and the feeling of moving on snow. Not all kids will be born yearning for snow however it will make the learning curve easier if they start out younger!

Check out these resources for determining how to get your child started:

• Google Shopping for Kids Ski/Snowboard Gear
• Child's Sizing/Fitting Guide
• Ski Diva: Moms advice from their experiences
• Steamboat Ski Resort Ski School
  

I have the Best Backyard in the World! By Luka.

How many children can say that this is their backyard, their every day playground?

Pictured, Howelsen Hill in downtown Steamboat Springs on the front and Mt.Werner at the Steamboat Ski Resort on the back.

This is where I learn, train and excel from the tiny magic carpet on Howelsen to the back bowls and hikes of Mt Werner. I am a alpine skier, snowboarder and a tele skier.

In the evenings when my older brother trains with Winter Sports Club, I go tubing on Howelsen with my mom and my friends. The concession stand has the best hot chocolate chip cookies when I need a break. I love my home town.

My name is Luka, I am 3 years old and this is my Steamboat.

(Luka is Maria's son. Maria is the Reservations Manager for ResortQuest Steamboat. For the insider advice on your planning a vacation in Steamboat for your family, contact Maria at (866) 634-9616 or email SteamboatInfo@ResortQuest.com).