Author: CoachZ

The holidays are upon us and for many parents that means an extended ski trip with the kids. After years of teaching and skiing with kids, I’ve learned some things about how to make the most of your child’s lessons and your family vacation.

Take it easy that first day. I often see families who arrived late the previous night show up at the mountain the next day stressed or tired. Instead of trying to jam too much into that first day, you should relax and have fun. If your kids already ski and this is your first time out for the season, consider spending time with them on easy slopes and playing on the snow in the beautiful outdoors. Don’t overdo it your first day or you may be too sore to enjoy the rest of the week.

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Many skiers don’t know that ski instructors take clinics themselves. In fact, PSIA instructors are required to take clinics to maintain their certifications. Last week, I had the privilege of participating in a Mini-Academy at Killington, which is offered to Level 3 certified instructors and led by a member of PSIA’s Demonstration Team.

The demo team is comprised of the top teachers in the country, as established by a week-long competition held at Snowbird once every four years. These try-outs are like an episode of “Survivor.” Instructors are run through an endless series of ski drills until only the best remain. In addition, instructors have to complete a series of indoor and on-snow presentations to ensure that only the best teachers and communicators make the team.

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