Kids Ski Safety Checklist: Everything You Need Before Hitting the Slopes

Kids Ski Safety Checklist: Everything You Need Before Hitting the Slopes

Skiing with children is great fun, but safety should always come first. A few simple checks before heading onto the slopes can help children stay safe and give parents peace of mind.

From ski helmets and goggles to equipment and slope awareness, here’s a simple kids ski safety checklist to run through before your next ski day.

1. Check their ski helmet

A properly fitted helmet should always be at the top of your checklist. It should sit securely on your child's head without moving around, and the chin strap should be fastened correctly.

Little Skiers has children's ski helmets including the Giro Spur MIPS Kids Ski Helmets come in 3 sizes and a range of colours, all with added benefit of MIPS, the Multi-Directional Impact Protection System. (read more below on MIPS)

For an extra bit of fun and visibility, a CoolCasc Ski Helmet Cover can be worn over a suitable ski helmet. Options such as the CoolCasc Three Eyed Monster, CoolCasc Spike and CoolCasc Crab make children easy to spot on the slopes.

A helmet cover is an accessory and does not replace a proper ski helmet.

2. Make sure their goggles fit

Good visibility is essential when skiing. Children need to be able to see where they're going, spot other skiers and read piste signs.

Before heading out, check that their goggles:

• If they wear glasses, invest in a good pair of OTG goggles 
• Fit comfortably against their face to prevent fogging
• Work properly with their helmet
• Stay securely in place
• Give them a clear view

We stock the brilliant Salice Ski Goggles which have light adaptive options for all ages so work in whatever conditions the mountains through at you.   

3. Check their ski equipment

Give your child's equipment a quick check before they head onto the slopes.

Make sure:

• Ski boots are fastened correctly.
• Skis are suitable for their ability and size.
• Bindings have been correctly adjusted by a qualified professional and correct weight given for each child
• Nothing is damaged or loose.
• Poles, if they're using them, are set to the correct size:
  • Turn the ski pole upside down, holding it just below the basket (the circular disc near the bottom)
  • Rest the handle on the floor
  • Your childs elbow should form approximately a 90-degree angle
  • If your elbow bends more than 90 degrees, the poles are too short. If it is less than 90 degrees, they are too long.

  For younger beginners, Little Skiers also stocks equipment such as Little Skiers Beginner Toddler Skis and Poles and the Hobbledehoo Skiing Harness.

  4. Teach simple slope rules

  Even very young children can learn basic ski safety rules.

  Teach them to:

  • Look around before setting off.

  • Stay in control.

  • Give other skiers plenty of space.

  • Stop somewhere safe and visible.

  • Follow piste signs and instructions.

  • Never ski on a closed run.

  • Listen carefully to their instructor.

  • Tell an adult if they have a problem.

  Keep the rules simple and repeat them regularly.

  5. Talk about chairlift safety

  Chairlifts are an important part of ski safety, particularly for younger children.

  Before using a lift, explain what will happen and make sure your child understands that they need to listen to the lift operator.

  Remind them to:

  • Sit back properly.

  • Stay seated throughout the journey.

  • Keep their hands and equipment under control.

  • Follow instructions when getting on and off.

  • Never attempt to get off before the designated area.

  Always follow the specific safety instructions provided by the ski resort.

  6. Teach them what to do if they get separated

  Before skiing, choose a simple meeting point in case your family gets separated.

  Make sure your child knows who they should look for and who they can ask for help. Depending on their age, teach them to recognise ski patrol or resort staff.

  For very young children, keep them within sight whenever possible.

  7. Check their equipment before every run

  A quick check before each run can help spot potential problems.

  Safety check:

  ☐ Helmet secure
  ☐ Chin strap fastened
  ☐ Goggles sitting correctly
  ☐ Ski boots fastened
  ☐ Skis and bindings checked
  ☐ No loose or damaged equipment
  ☐ Child knows where they're going
  ☐ Child understands the next instruction

  8. Know when to stop

  Tired children can find it harder to concentrate and control their skis.

  If your child is struggling to listen, losing control, falling repeatedly or becoming frustrated, it may be time to stop for the day.

  Knowing when to call it a day is an important part of keeping young skiers safe.

  A simple safety checklist for young skiers

  Ski safety doesn't have to be complicated. Start with the essentials: a properly fitted helmet, suitable equipment, clear vision, awareness of other skiers and a good understanding of the mountain rules.

  A few minutes spent checking everything before heading out can help make every ski day safer and more enjoyable for the whole family.