What to Expect for First Time Skiers (especially ages 3-5)
At Dagmar Ski Resort, our Snow School is focused on creating positive, confidence-building first experiences, especially for our youngest skiers.
Every learner is different, and a 3-5-year-old child learning looks very different from older children or adults. The information below is designed to help you and parents understand what a successful first lesson may look like.
▶️ Learning Comes Before Lifts
For beginners of all ages, especially 3-5 yr olds much of the lesson is taking place on flat ground. This is intentional and developmentally appropriate.
Some instructors will proceed to the Magic Carpet early in the lesson, while others stay on flat ground longer. Both methods achieve results.
Learning begins by standing and balancing, sliding short distances, learning to stop safely, and becoming comfortable in the equipment. Time spent off the Magic Carpet is valuable, and meaningful instruction.
▶️ Carpet Rides Are Not the Measure of Success
The Magic Carpet is just one part of learning to ski during a lesson.
A successful first lesson may include limited of the carpet, repetition at a child’s comfort level, and breaks to reset emotions and confidence. Progress is measured by comfort and willingness to try again, not by distance or the number of carpet rides. Use of the Magic Carpet may be 0-3 times in a 1-hour period use.
▶️ Emotions Are Part of Learning
It is normal for learners and young children to feel unsure, fall, hesitate, cry, or look for a parent.
Our instructors are trained to support children patiently and calmly through these moments of upset to help them feel safe and encouraged.
In some situations, an instructor may invite brief parental support if it helps a child reset and feel secure. Instructors will attempt to re-engage a child using age-appropriate techniques before involving a parent.
If a child remains unable or unwilling to participate despite support and encouragement, the lesson may naturally conclude early. For young children, the goal is always a positive experience – not pushing through distress to complete the full hour.
▶️ Parent Involvement During Lessons
For most private lessons, parents are asked to remain off the lesson area so instructors can maintain consistency and focus.
If your child requires hands-on parental participation, we recommend booking our Parent & Tot Lesson, which is designed for active parent involvement throughout the lesson. The Parent is required to be a competent skier in the Parent & Tot lesson.
▶️ Lesson Timing for Young Children
Lessons are booked in 60-minute blocks.
For very young children, lessons may naturally conclude early if a child becomes fatigued or overwhelmed. This is common and always guided by the child’s well-being. Many children participate for 30-45 minutes during early lessons, which is completely normal at this age, and it is best to ensure their happiness and comfort over skill development.
If you are unsure whether your child is independent enough for instruction, waiting a little longer is recommended until you are confident in this ability. While we offer lessons starting at age 3, children tend to have the best experience when they are strong, independent, and agile before attempting a lesson for the first time.
▶️ Our Commitment
A positive first lesson builds confidence and enjoyment- even if progress looks small at first. Lessons are the foundation for enjoyment, and a lifelong love of skiing.
