ADVICE FOR CHILDREN

The mountain is beautiful, but it can also be risky.  Some essential precautions should be taken during a winter sports holiday.

This list is for children, but it could also be useful for you!

• BEFORE LEAVING :
  
  • you should eat breakfast and make sure you drink plenty.  The cold air and the effort you need for skiing will use a lot of energy.  Try a breakfast with cereals, toast, hot chocolate, fruit or fruit juice.
  • Dress warmly. For the younger children, a ski suit is better : the snow won't get in keeping their back  warmer.
  • ski boots with the correct size and a good pair of socks will protect your feet. But never wear several pairs at the same time.(this stops the blood from circulating and gives you cold feet!!)
  • don't forget your wooly hat and gloves (or mittens are even better).
  • a helmet protects your head from injury. 
  • don't forget your ski goggles or sunglasses. The sun against the snow will hurt your eyes!!
  • put on sun cream and lip balm, even when it's cloudy (cream anti UVA and B indice 25 minimum) 

• What should I do on the slopes?
  • you should always be careful with other children and also with adults. You could bump into another person, hurting them and yourself.
  • you should never stop behind a bump, a skier coming from behind might not see you and could ski into you.
  • you should not stop in the middle of the slope.  Go to the very edge.
  • you should not go too fast you should be in control at all times and be able to change direction. For example if someone falls in front of you. 
  • slow down at crossroads : before crossing make sure no one is coming - like when you cross the street.
  • respect the slope markings
  • eat some cereal bars and rest often :  accidents happen when you are tired.
  • drink often otherwise you'll be cold. 

• What should your parents be doing? :
  • making sure you get enough sleep : at altitude, when we're not used to it, it can be difficult to sleep.  To be on top form, you'll need 10 hours of sleep!
  • to listen to you : if you're scared or don't want to ski, if you're hungry or thirsty: tell your parents : they know how to help you : skiing should be fun!
  • don't expect too much : skiing is not like school: a little in the morning, a little in the afternoon is more than enough!
  • make sure your bindings are adjusted for your weight, size and level.
  • take an insurance policy, rescues are very expensive.
  • not to worry if you don't progress quickly enough for them : skiing is fun!

• PROTECT THE MOUTAIN :
  • Don't throw away your sweet papers, cereal bar wrappers,  etc.. under the chairlift or in the snow.
  • Don't leave anything behind in the mountains : imagine the same scenery after the snow has melted!  Would you like the cows to chew your old gum or some nice green grass!