Skiing with kids can be one of the most magical family holidays you’ll ever take – but it pays to be prepared. From selecting the right resort to making the journey as smooth as possible, here’s everything you need to know to ensure your ski holiday with the kids goes off without a hitch.
Top Tips for Skiing with Kids
– Start slow and keep it fun: Your goal isn’t to create the next Olympian – not yet, anyway. Let the little ones warm up to the snow at their own pace.
– Book lessons: Ski schools in most resorts offer fantastic kids’ programmes with qualified English-speaking instructors. Group lessons also give children a chance to make friends.
– Dress for success: Layers, waterproofs, and a spare pair of gloves are essential. Cold, soggy hands are the fastest route to a snow tantrum.
– Take breaks: A hot chocolate pitstop is often more effective than a pep talk.
– Set realistic expectations: Younger children may only ski for a couple of hours a day – and that’s okay.
Best Resorts for Families with Children
Choosing a family-friendly resort makes all the difference. These resorts are renowned for their facilities, beginner-friendly terrain, and abundance of family-focused fun:
La Plagne, France
La Plagne is a long-time family favourite. With gentle nursery slopes, excellent ski schools, and childcare options, it’s ideal for beginners. Plus, the accommodation here is often ski-in/ski-out, saving time and tears in the morning.
Keep the kids happy in the mountains
Les Arcs, France
Linked to La Plagne via the Paradiski area, Les Arcs offers a fantastic mix of terrain for all levels. The Mille8 area in Arc 1800 is a purpose-built fun zone with a toboggan run, magic carpets, and themed ski slopes.
Val d’Isère, France
With the Village des Enfants and several free beginner lifts, Val d’Isère is surprisingly kid-friendly for such a prestigious resort. The resort also boasts a wide selection of catered chalets with hearty meals kids will love.
Tignes, France
From gentle green runs to thrilling snowparks (for the older kids), Tignes is packed with variety. It also offers plenty of non-skiing activities, making it great for mixed-age families.
Non-Skiing Activities to Keep Them Smiling
Whether it’s after ski school or on a rest day, these resorts offer loads of fun off the slopes:
– Swimming pools – Many resorts have excellent aquatic centres (try Le Lagon in Tignes).
– Sledging and tobogganing – A hit with kids of all ages.
– Ice skating – Available in Val d’Isère, Les Arcs and more.
– Indoor play areas – Perfect for burning off energy on bad weather days.
– Dog sledding or horse-drawn sleigh rides – A magical experience they’ll never forget.
Family playing in the snow
Feeding Hungry Skiers – Kid-Friendly Food in the Alps
After a day on the slopes, children will be ravenous – and thankfully, Alpine food delivers:
– Pasta, pizza, and chicken nuggets are widely available across resort restaurants.
– Catered chalets often offer earlier children’s meals – think hearty, home-style cooking with favourites like spaghetti Bolognese, sausages and mash, and warming soups.
– Many chalets will accommodate fussy eaters with prior notice.
Pro tip: Carry snacks on the slopes – cereal bars and mini chocolate treats can go a long way when energy dips.
Making the Journey Easier – Travel Tips for Families
– Choose your travel option wisely: Flying is quick, but train travel (like the Eurostar Snow Train) can be more relaxing with children, especially with less luggage hassle.
– Pack smart: Keep essentials like snacks, games, nappies, and a spare set of clothes within easy reach.
– Use airport fast-track where available and book transfers in advance.
– Get them involved: Letting kids pack their own rucksack or choose a ski hat can boost excitement and help ease travel nerves.
Follow our top tips to keep the kids happy in the mountains!
Ready to Hit the Slopes?
Ski holidays with children can be joyful, memory-making experiences for the whole family. With the right resort, thoughtful planning, and a flexible mindset, you’ll set yourself up for snowy success.
For more advice, browse our family ski holidays or speak to one of our ski specialists by calling 0330 102 8004.
Other articles you may like:
A Different Way To Travel to the Alps
Bubble or Quits – Ski Chalets with Private Hot Tubs