The right choice, but keep in mind that skiing should be a game. Nothing will discourage a child from continuing to ski more than parental pressure to perform. Take your time. A day on the mountain can be overwhelming in itself. We asked Filip Zeman, a former acrobatic skier and experienced instructor, for advice on how to proceed?
Filip, when is a good time to start skiing? Some enthusiastic parent-skiers would prefer to put their offspring on skis the moment they learn to walk.
It is advisable to start skiing when the child is physically mature and interested. It is generally recommended to start around 3 to 4 years of age, when the child has mastered coordination and is able to listen to instructions. It is also key to create a positive experience and not put pressure on them to perform.
Should parents take on the teaching themselves or do you recommend leaving the teaching to professionals and if so WHY?
I recommend entrusting teaching to professionals. Professional instructors not only have the necessary skills but also have experience in teaching children. They are trained on how to teach through play and enjoy every progress. This creates a positive experience while parents can focus on supporting and encouraging their child without the stress of teaching.
It is clear that there are many different opinions on how to teach a child to ski, however, the practical advice of a ski instructor who has been teaching children extensively can be a benefit and inspiration to parents. So, will you tell the readers the imaginary "PATERO" of Filip Zeman?
1. Well-being is key: Create a pleasant environment and focus on the joy of play. Without pressure to perform, learning will be more effective.
2. Adapt to the child: Every child is unique. Watch his or her pace, respect his or her limits, and acknowledge each progress.
3. Practice, not pressure: Focus on gradual improvement in technique. Focusing on rapid progress can discourage children.
4. Expert advice: use professional instructors. They provide not only technical skills but also psychological support for children. Their experience is invaluable.
5. Family fun: get the whole family involved in skiing. The shared experience strengthens family relationships and gives the children more motivation.
What is your opinion on children and ski mountaineering? Yes or no?
Yes, ski mountaineering can be a positive experience for children, but with caution. It is important to respect the child's physical and mental abilities. They should start with easy routes, always with adequate equipment and under the supervision of experienced guides. Emphasis should be placed on safety and gradual familiarisation with new skills. Ski mountaineering can be a great way to develop a love of the mountains and the outdoors, as long as it is done responsibly and safely.
What role does the actual choice of ski equipment play and what do you recommend?
The choice of ski equipment for children is crucial to their well-being and safety on the slopes. Start with skis and bindings that are suitable for beginners and allow for an easy to control arc. Skis should reach the child's nose height. Avoid boots that are too stiff to keep feet mobile. A helmet and goggles are essential to protect the head and eyes. I recommend consulting a professional or instructor to help you choose the right size and type of equipment for your child's abilities and needs.
Introducing Filip Zeman
Filip used to compete in acrobatic skiing and after retiring from his skiing career, he felt it was important to develop and promote physical activities in children's lives.
He made it his goal to teach as many children as possible how to play sports, to use sport to create a foundation for a healthy lifestyle and to remember to keep themselves and their parents happy and healthy through sport.
These ideas led him to foundSportkids, an agency with a diverse range of projects and a long-term vision to develop the idea: MOVEMENT - HEALTH - CHILDREN!
