Ski Holidays with Children: Age, Lessons, Clothing and Choosing a Resort

The secret of a ski holiday with children is making the child's first experience of snow an enjoyable one: a short journey, a warm, well-dressed body, a children's ski school and frequent breaks. Many ski schools offer lessons specially for children from a young age; however, the starting age varies with the school and the child's development. When choosing a resort, the travel time, how close the hotel is to the slopes and the non-ski activities are the deciding factors.

At what age do children start skiing?

There is no fixed age. Most ski schools run lessons for children from pre-school age; the age limit varies by school. What matters is whether the child:

• Can spend a short time with an instructor, apart from an adult,
• Has enough leg strength to walk in heavy ski boots,
• Can follow simple instructions.

If your child is not ready yet, sledging and building a snowman are enough to make a ski holiday unforgettable for them. Skiing can wait until next year.

Lessons or teaching them yourself?

Parents often want to teach their children themselves, but this is usually tiring for both the child and the parent. A children's ski school:

• Teaches through games; children learn faster and with more fun alongside their peers.
• Starts them off with the right technique and prevents bad habits.
• Also leaves parents time for their own skiing.

Lessons are usually not included in the tour price and are bought separately. We finalise your family plan together at the quote stage.

How should you dress your child?

Children get cold and wet faster than adults. The right clothing makes the difference between a day that ends happily and one that ends in tears.

• Thermal base layer: Synthetic or wool, not cotton.
• Fleece mid-layer.
• Waterproof ski suit, or jacket and trousers: All-in-one suits stop snow getting in when they fall.
• Waterproof gloves: For small children, warm mittens may be more practical than gloves with fingers.
• Ski socks: A single layer, knee-length.
• Helmet: Absolutely essential. Children's helmets can be rented at ski resorts.
• Ski goggles and sunscreen: Children's skin and eyes are more sensitive to the sun.

Do not forget spares: Extra gloves and socks are a lifesaver for changing wet ones at the lunch break. For the full list, see our ski clothing and equipment list.

How should you plan the day?

• Keep it short: A few hours of skiing is enough for small children. A tired child is both unhappy and more likely to fall.
• Frequent breaks: A break for a hot drink, a snack and a warm-up every hour or two does them good.
• Keep the afternoon free: Sledging, playing in the snow or resting at the hotel.
• Reward them: Celebrate the first successful turn and the first ride up the chairlift.
• Follow your child's pace: If they do not want to, do not force them; try again the next day.

Which resort suits families?

When choosing a resort for a family, look at these criteria: travel time, how close the hotel is to the slopes, beginner areas and non-ski options.

Short journey, first try

• Kartepe: Close to Istanbul, with day trip or 1-night, 2-day options, it is a practical start for children's first encounter with snow.

Weekend, no flights

• Kartalkaya: 2 nights, 3 days, by coach. With the hotels right at the foot of the slopes, getting around with a child is easy; going back to the hotel with a tired child takes just a few minutes.

Longer holiday, by air

• Erciyes: Wide, open slopes; an optional Cappadocia day for family members who do not ski.
• Palandöken: Close to the city; optional Erzurum city tour. Children need to be dressed well for the very cold mornings.
• Sarıkamış: Quiet slopes in the forest; if the weather allows, horse-drawn sleigh rides on Lake Çıldır, an experience children will love.

For a comparison of the resorts, take a look at our article comparing ski resorts in Türkiye.

Travel tips

• By air: Carry some of the ski clothing in your hand luggage; if your baggage is delayed, you will not be unprepared on the first day.
• By coach: Prepare comfortable travel clothes, snacks, water and small toys for your child.
• Arrival day: Sort out equipment rental on the first day, so you do not have to queue the next morning.

Health and safety

• Bring any medication your child takes and a small first aid kit.
• At high-altitude resorts the sun is stronger; reapply sunscreen during the day.
• Put a note with your name and phone number in your child's jacket pocket.
• Agree a meeting point with your child in crowded areas.

For adults skiing for the first time, our guide for first-time skiers may also be useful. For all family programmes, see our ski holidays page.

Frequently asked questions

At what age can children ski?

There is no fixed age; most ski schools run children's lessons from pre-school age, but the age limit varies by school. What matters is whether the child can spend time with an instructor and walk in ski boots.

Should I teach my child myself or should they take lessons?

Children's ski schools are usually more effective and more fun, as they teach through games and alongside peers. Lessons are usually not included in the tour price.

Can you have a ski holiday with a small child who does not ski?

Yes. Sledging, playing in the snow and the snowy scenery make for an unforgettable holiday for small children too. The optional trips on the Erciyes, Palandöken and Sarıkamış programmes also offer options for family members who do not ski.

Can you rent a helmet for a child?

Yes, children's helmets can be rented at ski resorts. Every child who skis is recommended to wear a helmet.