Where to go
The most important consideration is finding a "child friendly" resort. These should have short transfer times,
be not too far from the lifts and good nursery slopes. Car free resorts are obviously a safer bet.

When to go
There might be some restrictions for children in school. Late in the season avoids the very cold weather especially
for younger children. Try to avoid the last two weeks in February as the resorts become very busy because of the
European half term school holidays.

Travel arrangements
Try to keep the transfer time from the airport as short as possible. don't consider driving unless you make a lot of
stops on the way.

Accommodation
Chalets and apartments are best. Either take over a whole chalet or choose one which is advertised as a
family chalet. Apartments are cheaper but not as convenient, and someone still has to do the cooking.
Resort supermarkets can be expensive, too. There are a number of specialist family hotels.

Clothing and sunscreens
Helmets are recommended for younger children. Remember that goggles should be big enough to fit over the helmet.
A one-piece ski suit is the most convenient but at least with a two piece the child can wear the jacket at other times.
Mittens or gloves should always be worn and hats most of the time.
A vest and cotton polo neck underneath should be sufficient except on very cold days and thick tights may be needed. Sunglasses or goggles and suncream should be worn even on cloudy days. Make sure the children have access to
drinks - altitude is dehydrating.

Ski schools and creches
The biggest problem with ski schools can be the language. If you find that the Ski School instructor doesn't speak
much English, you do have the right to ask that your child be transferred to another class. Make sure you check
the times. Unfortunately, the children's Ski School times might not coincide with your own lesson so you may have
to be late for a class or leave early.
The ultimate is to hire a ski instructor for private lessens.
In some places they will organise childrens lunches which is great for you but again, make sure you know.
Most places should have indoor recreation if the weather turns bad.

General tips for kids equipment:
Don't be tempted to buy equipment too big for them to 'grow into' because it can make skiing difficult or even hurt your child.
Rental equipment is much better as you can always change the size and get a repair made.

Boots
Ski boots should fit like trainers - with enough room for toes to wiggle.
It's hard sometimes to get feedback from smaller children so, if you can, take the liner out of the shell to get a better
idea of where their toes are.

Ski
Children's skis tend to be shorter, softer versions of adult skis and the new shaped skis turn more easily than
traditional straight skis.
It's a good idea to choose shaped skis for kids because they don't exert too much leverage on children's legs.
They're also shorter and therefore easier to turn and manage.

Length
As with adult skis, you should take into account the child's weight, ability and aggressiveness when picking the
correct
ski length.
Rental shops should always consult parents about their child's ability.
Carving skis, Should come somewhere between the top of the shoulder (for light kids) and eye level
(for the heavier ones).

Helmet
Is a must for all children. Make sure it fits properly and that your child can still see to the sides and hear clearly.

Poles
Kids poles don't tend to use them until they have at least learnt the basics.
They are distracting and get in the way on lifts.

Bindings
They should be high quality and have a DIN setting that goes low enough (maybe down to 0.5) for your child.

Always get bindings check!!!