Kids and teens

Everybody loves snow flakes - catching snowflakes on your tongue, building the biggest snowman, throwing snowballs at your friends and making snow angels all capture that magic of the mountains. Combine the sparkle of the snow with a fun mix of instructors and programs and you have one of Australia's best on-snow learning centres.

Thredbo offers a variety of age specific programs for children 3 – 18 years, covering skiing, boarding and new school riding.

Choose from the selection of kids and teens programs from the left hand menu.

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Tips to help get your kids going and making the most of their time on the snow.

Watching your child experience snow for the first time is a beautiful sight. Making their first snowman and catching their first snow flake are memories you’re sure to cherish forever. But how do you prepare your child for the cold weather, their first chairlift ride and ensure they’re comfortable in ski boots?

1. Educate - Education is the key when it comes to getting your little angel mentally prepared for the snow – and no we’re not talking about exams. Explain to your child what snow is by reading them a book about snow and watching a snowy movie together. Tell them snowman jokes while drawing pictures of snowflakes and buy them a colouring-in book about winter. You can also show them photos of your previous snow holidays to get them excited.

2. Test Run - Make sure your child understands how cold it can get and how many layers of clothes they will have to wear. If you have your child’s snow gear early enough before your holiday, get him or her to try it all on at once. That way they can get used to the style of pants and jacket and also become familiar with wearing a helmet, gloves and goggles. If you have their ski or snowboard boots before you leave home, get them to wear them around the house so their feet don’t become sore on their first day of snow riding. They will also be better at doing them up when they hit the slopes.

3. Lessons - Talk to your child about ski school. Explain what ski school is, what activities they will participate in, such as Tuesday’s Animal Theatre in Thredboland, and what their instructor will teach them. To save any hassles when you reach Thredbo, call Thredbo Snow Sports on (02) 6459 4044 to book your child’s lesson. You can find out about Thredboland and Freeriders before you leave home through this website. Thredboland caters for children three to six years of age (skiing only) and Freeriders is for kids seven to 14 years of age (skiing and snowboarding). When you are at the snow and your snow angel has met his/her ski instructor, don’t stand around watching. If they catch you watching them in their lesson they will become distracted and you will interrupt the class and other kids. Meet back up with them when their lesson is over.

4. Correctly Fitting Gear - When it comes to comfort on the slopes, properly fitting clothing is a necessity. Whether you are buying or hiring outerwear for your child, ensure the clothing is comfortable and easy for your child to take on and off. Avoid ski pants that have cuffs on the bottom as they will ride up the legs. A bib and brace will also take a young child too long to get in and out of during toilet stops. It’s always tempting to borrow gear from friends with kids, especially as children grow so quickly, but remember that such clothing also needs to fit correctly. This is vital when it comes to boots. Poorly fitting ski boots will lead to sore, cold feet and unhappy children. Also, make sure the skis your child uses are fitted by an expert.

5. Waterproofing - When it comes to the quality of the gear your child will be wearing, a high waterproof rating will mean your child will stay dry and warm. Remember: they’ll likely be spending plenty of time sitting and playing in the snow and will need pants that protect them from the cold.

6. First Layers – Layer up. Avoid a big bulky jumper under the ski jacket and buy some good quality thermal layers. The same applies for pants – thermal pants or tights are a much better option than tracksuit pants that will be too cumbersome and heavy. If your child gets too hot you can always take off a layer but if they get too cold, it will ruin their day and yours. HAVE A

6. Backup – Whenever you can, have back-ups of basic items. Having two pairs of gloves is a good way to avoid a rush to the shops when your child drops one off the chairlift. The same goes for beanies, while a change of clothes, socks at the very least, in the car will ensure a happy child at the end of the day.

7. Headwear – Goggles and sunnies are a must in the snow. When it comes to goggles, if they are too big they will fog up while if they are too small they could cause headaches or interfere with your child’s vision. You can also opt for sunglasses on clear sky days but if it is snowing or windy, these will not do. Helmets are a must and will give not only them, but you as well, more confidence.

8. Carry Snacks – Giving your child a muesli bar or snack to have in their pocket is a good way to keep their energy levels up. They use a lot of energy while skiing so ensure they have a big breakfast and meals such as pasta. It’s also important to keep them hydrated, so be sure to stop every now and then for some water.

9. Watch the sun – Just because you’re in the snow doesn’t mean you won’t get sunburnt. Even on cloudy days, the glare of the snow can lead to sunburn. Apply sunscreen to your child’s face, especially to exposed areas such as on and under their nose and chin. Also regularly apply lip balm to prevent cracked lips.

10. Be organised – Get onto the slopes early so there is no rushing around. The time it takes you to get out of the house on a normal day – double it in the snow. It’s a good idea to get ready the night before. Lay clothes out so you don’t scramble to find socks and gloves at the last minute and place skis and boots at the door.

11. Understand – Above all else, ensure your child understands they are at the snow to have fun. Try to remember what it is like learning to ski and allow your child to take his or her time. It is better to have a child that is a strong, consistent skier than one that doesn’t know how to stop. It’s important not to overestimate your child’s ability, no matter how great you think they are. Have modest expectations and try and make their transition to the snow as stress-free as possible.