Mt. Abram Learning Center Ski School - Helpful Hints

Please take the time to prepare your child for an amicable and encouraging morning separation from you. Children need time to become accustomed to their equipment and environment, to make new friends with the staff and other children. It is then advisable to leave your child to enjoy the day, "out of view", with no interruptions. Your child will do better and have less separation anxiety if they do not see Mom and Dad watching them. Our Westside Lodge allows for great viewing of our learning area while remaining out of sight of our youngest skiers.

Please only one wool or polypropylene sock per foot, per boot in any weather! Additional socks or pant legs that are stuffed into ski boots will actually cause pressure points which lead to decreased circulation, and therefore, cold feet.

Dress your child appropriately for the day's weather. Remember that this is an active sport and lots of movement will be occurring. Participants in first time lessons are usually overdressed, which will lead to sweating and coldness. Gloves are an essential part of the daily attire. Mittens are warmer but provide less dexterity. Gloves should be water-resistant or waterproof. Knitted or cloth gloves are not recommended. Neck/face gators are also recommended for windy days.

Play and "act out" with their equipment to familiarize them with it. If you don't have equipment for them, show them yours or take a trip to a sports shop. Have them put your stuff on and walk around with it (if they can). The more comfortable they become with the process of dressing, wearing goggles etc., and the more they anticipate the routine, the more likely the success of their (and your) experience once you arrive at the Resort.

Find books and videos in the library on related subjects, like snow, winter, skiing etc. Get excited about the sport!

Get an early start. Remember every minute you save, is one that will come back to you many times once you arrive at the Resort. Also, the less harried and hurried the experience, the greater the chance for success!

Different people learn at different rates. Don't expect them to love the sport after the first day just because their brother or sister did -- find ways to celebrate success on each visit.