Toddler Snowboarding Lessons: The Beginning
You’ve got your gear and you’re ready to hit the slopes. I was so full of nerves and excitement not knowing what to expect. The key to starting out is this: KEEP EXPECTATIONS LOW.
That isn’t to say think things are going to go horribly, but hold off on the visions of them cruising down the slopes.
The first thing you need to do to set yourself up for success is.
- Get your toddler used to wearing all of their gear. It is a lot to put on multiple layers, all the accessories , and not be able to move or grab things as easily. Just getting your toddler dressed and on the slopes is a big step in the right direction. If they are fighting the process, just know the more often you do it, the less they are going to fight it.
- Get your toddler used to their board. Show them their board (or skis) at home. Have them stand on it and pull them around a carpeted floor. Talk to them about it. Show them videos of snowboarders, you snowboarding, and other kids snowboarding so they understand what it is they are doing!
- Don’t forget to bring snacks-duh, right? Have a few of their favorite snacks handy for when a moral boost is needed.
- Your main goal of the first time taking them to the slopes is having a positive experience. Make sure you’re getting all excited about each little thing. We’re in our snowboard gear- YAY! We made it to the lodge- YAY! Look at the snow- YAY! You have your snowboard on- YAY! You get the picture.
- If possible, I recommend trying to record a little bit of footage of them on the board to show them after it. It is one of my toddlers favorite things to watch and a great motivator for the next time.
- Once you’re on the mountain head towards the magic carpet. It will be where you’re spending a good chunk of time while they’re learning.
- At the top of the hill strap them into the board and let them wiggle around to see that they have control over their board. Then give them a little push and then run down next to them for when they need to be caught. Wash, rinse, and repeat.
- Another great tool to use is a harness. At first Beauden really did not like the harness but liked to just go down the magic carpet on his own. So we gradually add it in so he can get used to it- as that will eventually be a big help as you move to bigger runs.
Realistically, your toddler may only wanna do a few runs and then take a break. Just know even if it seems like such a small start, it’s great! And keeping it fun is the key for them wanting to come back and try again!