Going to the Ski Resort With Kids
Keeping Children Safe While Playing Recreational Snow Sports
Jul 6, 2009
Winter is a fantastic time to go to the ski resort with kids. For families unfamiliar with snow and its treacherous behavior, knowledge on snow and winter safety is crucial to ensure everyone has a good and safe winter holiday.
Here are some tips that parents can use for keeping children safe while playing recreational snow sports.
Dress Children in Layers of Clothing
Forget cotton and nylon, as these will not provide enough protection against the cold. Instead, dress children in several layers of warm clothing made of wool or synthetic fibers with insulating properties. Make sure they have thermal underwear, a turtleneck, a sweater and a jacket. Layering is useful because clothing can be added or removed according to changing temperatures easily. Make sure the head, feet and hands are covered with beanies, warm socks and water-proof gloves too.
Ensure Kids Wear Winter Safety Gear
If the kids will be out playing recreational snow sports like skiing, snowboarding and tobogganing, ensure they wear the appropriate safety gear. A ski helmet that fits correctly is a must to protect the head. Sunglasses or goggles are necessary for eye protection. Also, apply a sunscreen on the face to avoid sun damage as snow can reflect up to 85% of the sun’s ultraviolet light. Teach children to always observe warning signs and notices.
Enroll Children in Ski School
Most people have a winter holiday at a ski resort mainly to ski. So it makes perfect sense to enroll children in a ski school that will teach them the basics of skiing in a safe environment. Call the ski school in advance to find out how its ski lessons are structured and check its winter safety policy. Once the kids have learnt the proper way to ski, they will be able to enjoy the sport with their parents while showing off their newly acquired skill.
Teach Kids Snow and Ice Safety
Areas with thick snow and ice can be dangerous. Teach kids about snow and ice safety using the following guidelines:
- Never eat snow, even snow that looks clean and white, as it may contain pollutants and trace minerals like mercury.
- Never throw snowballs at others, as these may contain hard objects like stones or ice chucks that can cause serious injury to the eye and head.
- Never bury another person in snow or make tunnels in the snow.
- Never venture onto frozen ponds or rivers without an adult checking the ice first.
A winter holiday at a ski resort should be fun and safe. When going to the ski resort with kids, keep them warm by dressing them in layers of clothing, ensure they wear winter safety gear and enroll them in a ski school if they are new to skiing. In addition, parents should teach the children about snow and ice safety.
Found this article useful? Read also Going to the Theme Park with Kids, Going to the Beach with Kids and Going to the Zoo with Kids.
References:
The National Ski Areas Association Website – Ski Tips for Kids
Kids Health Website – Cold, Ice and Snow Safety
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