10 Tips on Teaching a Special Needs Child to Ski

A How to Guide on Teaching Neurodivergent Children a New Way to Move on the Snow

Teaching a neurodivergent or special needs child to ski or snowboard comes with a unique challenges, but the benefits are substantial. These activities promote physical fitness, sensory integration, and improved balance and coordination.

Special needs can range from people with autism, cerebral palsy, down syndrome, dyslexia, blindness, ADHD, and cystic fibrosis. They can also include cleft lips and/or palates, port-wine stains, and missing limbs. Any kid who needs extra support can enjoy some aspect of gliding on snow amongst family and friends.

Moreover, they offer opportunities for social interaction, fostering communication skills and friendships. Children often gain confidence and self-esteem as they conquer challenges on the slopes, leading to mental and emotional benefits.

In this blog we will cover the unique aspects of teaching a special needs child to ski or snowboard. We will discuss the many benefits this challenging learning experience can provide as well as summarize ski teaching tools, adaptive gear and programs, and offer insights from our personal journey as a family.

As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, we earn from qualifying purchases.

No Child Left Behind: Special Needs Kids Want to Join

Inclusion is everything. If they see you enjoying an activity or hear friends talk about the fun they had last weekend, they want to be included. When we first start introducing the sport it can be as simple as feeling or putting on the outwear, playing on a flat or very slight incline in a park with ski or snowboard equipment and having a cup of cocoa before a lovely play at a playground after.

Teaching a child, any child, to take calculated risks is a gift. Teaching a special needs child to gently push their boundaries is priceless and necessary for them to survive. Life is hard, learning to push through the hard to find the reward or growth is essential. 

When I first wrote this piece almost four years ago, I was teaching my eldest (now 10) to ski. I’ve since updated it as I’ve learned so more from teaching my second special needs child and learning from other special needs parents on social media as we’ll as proper ski instructors that have taken their programs online.

You don’t need to be a seasoned skier or snowboarder to enjoyably introduce your family to be the sport. It may take half a decade or more to get off the bunny hill but if your enjoying a day outside as family on the mountain, does it matter?

Truth be told I haven’t met a special needs parent that isn’t already a super hero capable of managing many dynamics at once. If teaching your kid to ski sounds even remotely run, I highly encourage you to try. While every kid (and family) is different, I am a fierce proponent in giving each child a chance to learn.

Take your tool box of breath work, fidgets, and visuals with you to the ski hill. If you’re going to be providing constant therapy, might as well be outside. I know both my kids are calmer and more receptive when immersed in nature.

What is the Best Age to Start Learning to Ski or Snowboard?

Spoiler alert, there isn’t one. I personally thought starting my kids while they were in diapers was a good idea. I thought if I tried hard enough they would learn they way I did. Then I actually met my children. While I don’t necessarily think it helped with their progression, I do believe it instilled a love for the environment early on.

I’ve learned no two special needs kids are alike even if they share the same diagnosis. It was clear to me she wasn’t ready till she was about 5 years old. The first season was all about adjusting to the gear. The second she learned to go up and down the magic carpet by herself and the third she could go up and down the bunny hill on her own and go for little jumps.

When I started my youngest I thought she was my neurotypical kid. My mistake out the gate was using her snowboard harness as a crutch while I tried to teach two kids at once. She didn’t really learn her balance or how to focus because I did it all for her till I ditched the harness.

She’s now 7 and just learning to turn which is totally okay. We’ve worked hard helping her focus and navigating sensory overload. Last year she learn to skate, get on and off the magic carpet and ride her heel side down the bunny hill. I’m genuinely thrilled by how far we’ve come.

Adaptation is the name of the game. Take what you need and leave the rest, not everything is applicable to all children. My only hope is to inspire you to get outside and have fun with your kid. It truly doesn’t matter how it looks. It took me years to understand there was no there

I’ll be the first to admit I’ve lost my cool, my plan and my kids trust on the ski hill. I’m not one of those perfect instagram parents who has the right words at just the right time. But over time I’ve learned to breathe, take breaks and offer a tool box of phases that are sure to build back trust and redirect harder moments.

Why Special Needs Kids Benefit from Learning to Ski or Snowboard

I’m not going to sugar coat it, teaching a special needs kid to ski or snowboard can seem impossible or even irresponsible. I’ve gotten my fair share of side eye as my kid hit the deck (face first into the ground in tears) in the middle of a busy lift line or ski lodge. As you already know learning to manage meltdowns is part of the process.

As a kid who grew up on the slopes, I couldn’t fathom raising my girls anywhere else. Early on I realized our walk was going to be at a different pace but much to my husband’s dismay, I was one hundred percent committed to the process. Even after the hard days when we drove 45 minutes up Boulder Canyon only to spend another 30 minutes of it simply adjusting to the drive, gear, cold and busyness of a ski resort only to turn around and head home.

The focus and concentration required in skiing or snowboarding can be particularly helpful for children with attention disorders, enhancing their attention span. These activities also encourage independence and empower children. It’s magic to watch as they gain confidence and self-esteem as they conquer challenges on the slopes.

Furthermore, the skills acquired while skiing or snowboarding, such as balance and coordination, can be transferred to other aspects of life. No doubt setting and achieving goals on the slopes is another valuable life skill that children can develop.

The term “special needs” is an incredibly broad term, but your kid just might surprise you and be able to do the seemingly impossible. Nothing convinced and encouraged me more of this than the numerous social media accounts of special needs kids jumping and racing and simply enjoying mountain life. Perhaps it’s between gummy bears and 5 minute breaks cool downs or throwing snowballs but it’s happening. Just getting to the ski hill is a hug win. Be sure to celebrate the wins.

How to Set Your Family up for a Successful Ski Day

Firstly, there are many steps you can take to prepare you family for a successful day on the ski hill long before you actually get to the ski resort. I started preparing my children young by taking them outside often in all weather. This meant for half the year they got into the drill of layering, wearing outer wear like snow pants and jackets as well as putting on mittens, hats and neck gaiters.

I wish I could tell you exactly how many winter ski accessories we’ve been through over the last decade. My eldest struggled with mittens/gloves and to this day won’t wear them unless it’s below 20 degrees Fahrenheit or below and even then I’ve caught her trying to just wrap her hands in her jacket.

Adjusting to the heaviness, bulk and general extra sensation of outwear took a long time. I realized the more I listened and adjusted their gear accordingly, perhaps almost constantly, the more my kids met me half way and tried to adapt to the overwhelming sensations they were and still do feel.

I thrifted and sold gear which I took to sledding hills for several years before they ever stepped foot on a ski resort. When they could safely make their way down a sledding hill, I finally took them to the magic carpet. Many but not all states have at least one resort with a free bunny hill, find that hill so there are very little expectations on the day.

Repeated positive exposure is everything. All that matters is that your kid has fun and you end on a high note. Phrases like, “I just love being out here with you” and “wow, you’re a really great skier” are extra helpful especially when they see neurotypical kids moving past them.

Slow Transitions and Low Expectations 

One of my children cries every single time we head up to the ski hill. She’s also the same kid who gets upset when it’s time to go home. I’ve learned to prep her when we are planning a trip as far in advance as possible. I lay out clothes and she watches me pack the car the night before while helping me gather crafts, activities, tablets, snacks and drinks.

We use Rumple blankets, warm drinks and stuffed animals to ease the early morning cold transition to the car. They sleep in their base layers and when we get to the ski hill I try very hard not to rush them. This looks like me getting ready first then getting the kids ready which is backwards from how you would prepare for a neurotypical kid because I’m often putting on their gear while I overheat in mine but that okay. It’s not uncommon for my kids to hang out in the car for 30-40 mins while they adjust to being at the ski hill.

They are now old enough I can leave them with Rocky Talkies while I snag a lap or two. These rugged walk talkies have a very long range and work very well at our home resort which lacks any cell service. Giving them a slice of responsibility and the tools to communicate empower and make them feel safe at the same time. Every parent’s comfort level is different. Trust your instincts.

Create Your Special Needs Ski Community

The biggest take away I’ve gathered over the last four years are the connections I’ve made with other special needs parents over social media and even after posting of this article. I was so hesitant to write this piece as I feared “sharenting” or overexposing my girls unnecessarily. However we’ve all really benefited from witnessing and relating to other families experiences.

We’ve had a lot of fun introducing our friends and neighbors to the sport as we know how to keep expectation low and the fun vibe high. When there is no “there” the sky’s the limit on how much fun you want to have. Building community is so helpful, just having a friend to meet you there makes a world of a difference.

Additionally, family and friends don’t need to ski or board to be able to help. Asking my father to spend time with one while I teach the other child is a ritual my kids love. They’ve learned that when grandpa visits they get solo ski time with mom and mama’s happy because she gets to ski with grandpa. It’s a multigenerational love for the ski life which precisely the stuff of this mountain mama’s dreams.

Adaptive Ski Program for Kids

Many ski resorts offer adaptive programs tailored to special needs, providing trained instructors and specialized equipment. This makes it possible for these children to enjoy the mountains like anyone else.

They come with special instructors and equipment that can be incredibly helpful. Your child doesn’t have to require physical support to utilize the program. They are designed to be inclusive spaces where a child can be themselves through the learning process. Scholarships are usually available.

Keeping Kids Fueled is Key

Bring healthy meals and bars so that your kid isn’t all spun out on sugar and additives. I’ve made that mistake too many times. This can look like soups in thermoses or bento boxes full of fruit, veggies, grains and proteins. I leave it in the car and pack my backpack and pockets full of nuts, dried fruit, crackers, bars and gummies like Honey Stinger or Skratch Labs.

Need snack ideas? Check out this post on the best adventure snacks.

With that said, Little Dudette got a Snicker’s bar recently on a really cold day. Go with the flow and have fun. I’ve also ordered pizza and fries on occasion. There’s no one right way except to not have any food, that’s treacherous territory.

Hydration is also easy to forget, yet crucial. I’ve found a Camelback under a jacket does wonders if your child is willing to try. Without a doubt kids hydrate best with hydration packs but my kids aren’t crazy about wearing them so I’ve been known to stuff juice and even small waters in their pockets. I like Burton’s one-piece suits for their huge pockets for this reason.

I also let them drink out of my bladder all day. If I’m worried about hydration, I allow all the juice and cocoa they want. Altitude sickness is no joke.

Special needs kids may not always be able to communicate when they are cold, hungry and even in pain or sick. Pay closer attention when you’re on the hill with them. Consistently ask questions to check in, it’s not fun if you’re cold and headachy. Take off their gloves and put a hand on their chest. Have they gone to the bathroom at least once? I even keep an eye on how much protein they eat as I’ve seen they do better with more on active days.

Hold Boundaries and Expectations

Your child is going to push back, even if they pick up the sport easily and enjoy the cold they will bump up against being uncomfortable eventually. It’s okay to set expectations and hold firm boundaries. What that looks like depends on the dynamic of the family.

I remind my kids I’m not up for skiing with them if they are going to whine the whole time. I will and have left them home for this reason. Being on the mountain is a privilege which requires what we call a growth mindset. That means being willing to try even when you’re cold and scared.

I sent my kids to ski school to teach them the rules of the mountain with their peers. We did both dry land gyms and our local mountain’s weekly ski school. I also sent comfort items such as stuffies and blankets that my kid could keep in a backpack or pocket.

We have talked about mountain safety excessively and I stop them to explain dangerous situations or areas on the mountain regularly. My eldest skis with a walkie talkie and we have a meeting point if anyone gets lost. They know and trust ski patrol as well from making a few visits over to their office.

Finally, label everything. From the helmet to the boots. Loosing gear is never fun especially after your child spent time adapting to that specific piece of gear.

Walkie-talkies and other kid tracking devices can also ease anxiety for parent and child.  

Jen, TTM Team

Additional Protection on the Ski Hill

Even when its cloudy sun protection is necessary. Being in the mountains means you are higher up and subsequently closer to the sun. My kids hate it but understand a little application is expected if you want to ski or go out all day in the snow for any reason. The same applies to googles. Snow blindness is real and terrifying.

Pro Mom Tip: Stick sunscreen is easier to put on dodging faces.

For kids who struggle with the feeling of goggles, try wearing them in short increments with breaks and treats for keeping them on. We also use sun glasses on warmer days.

Feet warmers are smaller than traditional hand warmers and therefore fit into tiny gloves.

Wearing pads encourages kids to take risks and step out of their comfort zone. They don’t need to hit the half pipe to benefit from padding after a hard fall. We started with Burton’s G-Form Total Impact Shorts but ultimately feel in love with SBShellz due to softness, warmth and comfort of their pants.

Additionally, spine protector vests like The POC POCito VPD Spine Vest are a great idea, especially if your kid has a hard time following commands and might get hit.

Gear We Recommend When Teaching a Special Needs Child to Ski or Snowboard

There are many ski teaching products on the market with new innovations coming out each day. An Eddie Wedgie is a small piece of gear that holds the ski tips together and makes a huge difference.

We’ve found the MDXONE harness to be great for learning to ski (as well as snowboard). An extra pair of gloves, a snack and chapstick fit perfectly in the little backpack. However, it can easily turn into a crutch. Be mindful how you use and when you pull away from it.

With that said, we’ve tried all sorts of trainers and just found what worked for us. My friend used a climbing harness with a dog leash to control the speed for her child till they learned.

Patience is essential, both on and off the hill. Using a hulla hoop, cones, toys and stickers can all turn learning to ski in a game which is the best way to learn. There are many help resources on ski games you can play to teach them. A little bubble blowing can do wonders for learning to turn.

Outerwear that is light weight, waterproof, warm and easy to get on is essential. Please hear us when we say it doesn’t have to be brand new or top brand either. Look for well known brands used and on discount. Sell what gear doesn’t work for your kids.

Let Go of Expectations and Breathe Mama

There are many times we went to the ski hill and I didn’t even strap in or buy a lift ticket. Low investment can help keep expectations low. If I can’t settle it’s because I need a good workout. I can either try to tap out with my partner and take a few solo laps or try to get my energy out before we get to the ski hill. Not all of it though!

Starting the day with the right mindset, enough energy to take on a challenge and enough fuel to keep us going is sure to set our family up for a great day on the ski hill.

Learn more about gear we recommend in our Outdoor Family Winter Gear Guide here.

The amount of time we are spending outside in and of itself makes a trip to the ski hill worth it. Even when meltdowns ensue (and I promise you they will), at least they are outside. It’s not about how fast you both can get on the lift and head down the mountain. It’s about teaching your kid to relax and have fun outside.

Processing all the news sounds, brightness of the snow and moving pieces is overwhelming to any system, let alone to a kid that already struggles. Let go of a timeline and expectations. Sneak off and get a few turns alone if you can so you can come back with renewed energy.

Let Your Kid Set The Pace

When I watch video of our ski adventures, it pains me how much I coach my kid. I do it without thinking. Ironically my father did it too and I wasn’t much of a fan. I can still hear him say “turn, turn, turn” on occasion.

More often than not I have to promise silence for a whole run or till lunch. This means I ski defensively behind her and try to let go. The older she gets, the more silence is requested. I’d love to instill how to make parallel turns on a blue but if she’s not ready, that’s okay. I’ll be here waiting.

Pro Mom Tip: Always end with a reward, make it a ritual.

Whether it’s the carousel in Nederland on the way home or jumping into a hot tub at the end of the day. My kids thrive on the little rituals we have after skiing. Good old fashion bribery never hurt anyone. 

Trust Your Internal Compass 

Other winter activities like ice skating, hiking, and cross-country skiing are great ways to take on a challenge and build up confidence. We hope to cross-country ski more this year as I’ve realized this is an activity we can do right out our front door. Cross country is also great for building confidence and balance on skis.

Our original Mountain Mama, Amelia, wrote a great piece about XC skiing here.

Down-hill skiing is lots of fun, but it’s not for everyone. The point is to have fun outside, find a rhythm that works for your crew. You know your kid better than anyone. You got this!! 

Pin it:

© 2023, Tales of a Mountain Mama. All rights reserved. Republication, in part or entirety, requires a link back to this original post and permission from the author.