How kids learn to ski in Austria

In Austria's ski regions, a total of 22,000 kilometres of pistes await. But what to look for when heading on a family ski holiday? Generally speaking, it's easier for parents to keep track of what's going on in smaller winter resorts. A variety of wide, blue pistes is the best learning area. Keep an eye on family packages and deals for ski passes tailored to families. That way, you'll cut down on expenses right from the beginning.

Of course, besides a ski school that's easy to get to there are also other important things to consider, like family-friendly winter activities beyond the slopes. Is it possible to go on a winter hike nearby? To go ice skating, enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride or to whizz down a toboggan run? Or how about an picturesque town centre for a winter stroll?

Parents who are passionate skiers themselves should make sure the ski school for their kids is part of a winter resort offering a variety of slopes for different skill levels. That way, the whole family can enjoy the slopes - and later a pit stop together at a mountain hut. Alternative activities are essential in that case as well. If the snow comes down too heavy, it's nice to spend precious family time together in the holiday apartment or at the hotel. But it could be equally enjoyable to visit a thermal spa together, or go on a family show-shoe hike.

Future ski instructors have to be excellent skiers already before they start their training. The training itself consists of four levels, from aspirant to state, certified and diploma ski instructor. The levels are regulated by laws within the individual provinces, but in general, they are fairly similar. At the beginning, the main focus is on teaching beginners and children. Improvement of communication skills and educational foundations are also part of the schedule. The goal is that the new instructors are able to teach high-quality, well-structured lessons. The training in Austria ranks among the best in the world.

Depending on topography, philosophy and teachers, every ski school works slightly different. However, the Austrian Children's and Youth Skiing Curriculum with age-appropriate learning games is always the foundation. In most cases, parents bring their kids to the meeting point in the morning, where the ski instructors take over. Especially with very young children this can take a while. Afterwards, it's time for the first educational games. Most ski schools have a break after about an hour, then continue until lunch time. Depending on the ski school and the parents' preferences, the kids have lunch with their ski group, or their family. For the youngest, this is the end of their course day. Older children continue with their training until the afternoon, but usually have a longer lunch break, combined with some fun social programme.

Our recommendation is to book a one-week course, as kids can celebrate their successes day after day that way, and experience their first downhill run and final race with award ceremony at the end of the course.

As with any great ski holiday in Austria, preparation is the name of the game - and it can be fun, too. If you start planning well in advance, you are sure to find the perfect holiday destination for the whole family! Booking sorted? Now it's time to get your kids in the winter spirit! Check out the mascot on the ski school's website, or maybe even start rehearsing its song (if there's one). When you choose the ski clothes for everyone at the latest, your children will surely look forward to heading to a snowy winter wonderland!

To make sure everyone is well-equipped for the family ski holiday, we have created a short list of things to pack - you will probably have some of it in your closet already:

• Skis, poles, ski boots and helmet (or rent on site)
• Snow goggles and sunglasses
• Sunscreen with high SPF and lip balm
• Ski jacket (hardshell jacket, for warmer weather softshell is fine as well) and ski pants, for children we recommend a one-piece suit
• Fleece sweater/jacket
• Ski underwear and socks
• Ski gloves
• Cap/headband
• Scarf

You don't need a car in most ski regions, because getting around by public transport is very easy. However, your own vehicle das have its upsides: Suitcases and bags can go in the trunk, skis and snowboard on the roof, and you have everything together. If you decide to travel by car, please remember that in Austria, a vignette is mandatory. You can either buy it at gas stations near the border or online in advance.

Just arrived at the ski resort and can't wait to hit the slopes? Head to the local sports shop and pick up your equipment! It pays off to book it online in advance, as it usually comes with discounts. Wants to spontaneously try out another ski or snowboard? Or your child has lost a ski pole? No problem either. The local sports retailers are equipped for these cases.

Almost every ski resort offers extraordinary experiences: Whether night skiing, a torchlight hike, guided snowshoe tours, wildlife feeding, concerts or readings - there is something going on for every family member. Check the events of the week at your hotel reception or the local tourist information centre upon arrival.

Ski schools use learning games to teach children the right techniques. And, of course, to ensure they have fun on the piste.

There is a lot to discover for the little ones in the mountains, and most ski schools also have a mascot and their own ski school song. Playing in the group is usually just as exciting for the little ones as their newly acquired skills. Older siblings will be delighted with Austria's top-notch snow parks, downhills and fast-paced race tracks.

Many regions also offer mini clubs (Zwergerl Clubs), where children from 1 to 7 years can spend a day away from the slopes.

An exceptionally well-developed network of regional trains, pick-up services and modern local transport concepts are standard in Austrian ski resorts, as sustainability is taken seriously here. Check in advance if your guest card and ski pass include public transport. In most ski regions in Austria, local transport as well as ski buses are free of charge.

Many hotels offer package deals including accommodation, full or half board and the ski pass. With many guest cards, you also get discounts at the ticket counter at the valley station. Ski passes can be booked online in advance in most winter sports regions. Additionally, they often double as tickets for local transport.

It's best to find out what's included as soon as you've decided on your perfect winter sports resort.

You like planning ahead and booking everything in advance when heading on your ski holiday? We totally understand. However, if you are unsure whether your children will actually enjoy skiing, it's best to opt for a ski school offering trial courses. The standards at Austria's ski schools are very high, both when it comes to teaching and safety. We recommend to choose a ski school that is easily accessible from your accommodation - ideally within walking distance.

From the train to the shuttle bus and off to the holiday apartment? No problem in Austria! Our ski regions have an exceptionally well-developed network of regional trains, pick-up services and modern local transport concepts. In many areas, local bus rides are free of charge with the region's guest cards. Tirol has a shuttle service from the train station that can be booked online, and Carinthia offers low-cost shuttles from 19 train stations directly to hotels. Overall, more and more regions are focusing on sustainable travel and on-site mobility.

From the slopes to the spa - there's no better way to relax your body and mind after a long day on the slopes. After carving on perfectly groomed slopes during the day, guests can treat themselves to a steam bath or a spa visit. Many hotels have their own wellness area - after all, the mix of piste and subsequent spa is a tradition in Austria.

For those staying in private accommodation, there are spas and swimming pools within easy reach and very close to the pistes.

To the most beautiful spas in ski resorts