Planning a family ski holiday this winter? Here is our quick guide, on how to keep your children dry, warm and happy out in the snow by dressing in layers. And also a few general recommendations on how to get the most out of skiing with children.

How to dress your child in the cold Nordic winter climate
Layer 1 – thermal or wool underwear, long sleeved t shirt and leggings are the base layer worn next to the skin that regulates the body temperature.
Layer 2 – Wool or microfleece pants and top as extra insulation under an outer layer. We recommend roll neck top. We sometimes ad an extra wool jumper on top when the temperature drops below -10.
Layer 3 – Ski pants (salopettes) and ski jacket. This should be 2 or 3 layered water and wind resistant.

Helmet: Essential, many resorts won’t allow children in the slopes without a helmet.
Ski Goggles: for both skiing and sledging.
Snow Boots: Buy Goretex or wind and waterproof boots. Wear ski socks or thin wool socks inside.
Hat: Make sure the hat covers the ears. For younger children we recommend balaclava also to go underneath the ski helmet.
Buff: A tube of seamless microfibre material, is a multifunctional headwear that can cover the neck, face and head.
Gloves: Mittens instead of gloves as they are warmer. The mittens should cover the wrist and be wind and waterproof.
Ski socks: Provides support and are thin allowing space in the ski boot, for toes to move and keep warm.

Babies and toddlers should not go outside if colder than -10. Don’t apply any cold cream as it’s proven not to be any benefit. Use the buff instead over the face to protect tiny noses and chins. With only a few minus degrees or milder temperatures remove layer 2, as the active children can get too warm.
Please note that this information is based on our experience. And feel free to ask if any questions!

The pictures are from a ski trip to Trysil in Norway in 2008. This “winter wonderland” is located only 2,5 hrs drive from Oslo and it’s one of Norway’s largest and most popular ski resorts, offering 66 slopes in four areas. Stay in a hotel or like we did -a rented ski in ski out chalet. The resort is focusing especially on families offering creche, ski school, children’s slopes and lots of fun family activities throughout the winter.

Skiing with your children is a true joy. But we also do recommend ski school for the children to learn technique and safety in the slopes and to make new friends. Many resorts also have children’s creche in the slopes where they play both indoors and outdoors.

When skiing with children make sure you have a break now and then. To warm up, have some food and a hot drink and play a bit in the snow. It’s all about having fun together.

Warm children would like to stay out in the snow -all night if they would have been allowed to…

© Little Scandinavian