Equipment / which type of lessons for kids

Clothing

• At the beginning of the season (December/January) sometimes we can experience very cold conditions especially if the beginners areas are in the shade of the sun.  In contrast the end of the season can be very warm.

• It is better to have salopettes and jackets rather than an all in one suit (makes going to the loo easier for kids especially, one piece suits are so yesterday now anyway!) Make sure that that trousers are waterproof and insulated (or put fleece trousers or Jammie trousers underneath for kids).  When children are learning (or waiting around) they tend to sit around in the snow a lot, the cold &/or moisture can penetrate through thin/non-waterproof clothing very quickly and make the child extremely cold quickly.

• When buying skiwear, look for fabric that is water and wind-resistant. Look for wind flaps to shield zippers, snug cuffs at wrists and ankles, collars that can be snuggled up to the chin and deep pockets. Be sure to buy your children quality clothing products (warm kids are happy kids!).

• Please don't skimp on your children's ski gear.  Make sure that you kit them out with plenty of Layers to wear (this helps to accommodate for the bodies constantly changing temperature,) they can always peel them off if they become too hot, but there is nothing worse than getting cold and not being able to warm up (especially when you're only 3!).

Gloves/Hats etc.

• The same is important about protecting your hands, ensure that gloves are not too tight, leave a bit of room to let the fingers move around (mitts are quite warm) and make sure that kids ones will stand up to making snowballs!  (for young kids elastic through their sleeves and attached to their gloves at either end saves any gloves getting lost!).  A spare pair of gloves is always a good idea.  We all loose warmth through our extremities (80% through our heads!), it is important to have a warm hat that covers the ears or a headband for slightly warmer weather, this can always be discarded if you get too hot. 

• Ski helmets are a good idea. If your child wears a ski helmet, remember you may have to raise your voice more to get their attention because a helmet may impede their hearing.. Make sure the helmet fits correctly. A ski helmet is not an item you buy for your child to grow into. Educate your child about the benefits and limitations of the helmet. Wearing a helmet doesn't give permission to ski or snowboard faster or recklessly.

• We at BASS would always recommend that any children (and/or adults) consider wearing a protective helmets during their hours of skiing.  This not only provides warmth but also provides reasonable protection.

• Be sure to wear sun protection, even on cloudy days (higher the factor the better). The sun reflects off the snow and is stronger than you think! A ski holiday with a sun burn is no fun!
• Kids & adults should have sunglasses (for fine weather) and goggles (for wind & snow) Take both with you unless you can be sure that it is a clear day & Glasseswill be suitable.  Glasses are no use in wet or snowy conditions as they steam up on the inside.  Skiing is a lot more fun when you can see. Always wear eye protection!

Ski Equipment

• When buying or hiring your equipment ensure that everything fits well (not too big, not too small). 

• Boots - should fit comfortably with one pair of ski socks (long enough to come up past the top of the boot).  The boot should fasten snuggly round the top of the leg so that you can only slip a couple of fingers between your leg and the boot.  Toes should be relaxed and not right at the top of the boot, the fore foot should be held with no lateral movement.  Clips should not be on their maximum (last) closure as this gives no room for adjusting during the day.

TIP - Visit your pharmacist before you come and purchase some Arnica gel/cream.  When you start skiing sometimes you shins receive a bit of wear and become bruised, Arnica will help reduce the inflammation & bruising.

• Skis can be hired in resort, there are many hire shops located in the Valley, some offer online pre-booking which is recommendable for peak holiday times.   www.grands-montets-sports.com or   www.rentski.com is one shop that we recommend.

Families with Children - Which lesson type?

Choosing the Type of Lessons;    First you need to decide what is going to be the best option for your whole family.  Please consider your children's age/s, motivation and agility (just as for adults) when considering whether to go for Private Lessons, Kids Group Lessons or our special Family Package.

The Lesson; t BASS Chamonix we only use very experienced and Child Friendly instructors, when children are learning a sport it can sometimes be quite confusing for the child to know who to listen to.  Our instructors will involve the whole family in the learning process of your child wherever possible.  If the instructor feels that they would like you to help they will not hesitate to ask and will give you an idea of what assistance they might require.  However this may not be needed so if not just stand back and let the process begin.  The quicker your child becomes independent on their skis the more enjoyable a holiday your whole family will have.  Remember to ask the instructor at the end of the lesson how your child is progressing and if there is anything that can be practiced outside the lessons to help their development.

• When kids come to our group lessons or private lessons we ask that you provide them with a small (suitable for carrying) rucksack with extra items from the following list with (ones they are not wearing) the following items in it:

Rucksack - Goggles & sunglasses / sun cream (factor 30+) / hat / gloves / snack (cereal bar) / non glass & non leak bottle of juice (non fizzy) / money for a hot drink stop (min €5) / Tissues

If your child has any medical or physical needs please let the instructor know at the beginning of the first lesson (or by contacting the BASS Chamonix office beforehand) so that we can ensure to make the lesson as appropriate for them as possible.

If you require all day care of all day group lessons for your children please contact the Panda club organised in Argentiere.

Clothing recommendations for clients / Transfers / Lesson info