How do you prepare your children for their first ESF lessons?
Published on 15/12/2025 - Written by Coline
Skiing for the first time is usually an exciting step for children! As the lessons approach, however, enthusiasm can be mixed with apprehension. So to ensure that this new adventure goes as smoothly as possible for your little skiers, there's nothing like preparing them properly.
From booking lessons to organising their suitcase, not forgetting their mental preparation, esf Les Menuires gives parents all the advice they need to prepare their children for their first experience on the slopes.
Book a course tailored to your child's needs for a worry-free holiday
Preparing your children for their first lesson starts well before they arrive in the resort. Registering for esf lessons is the first essential step towards a pleasant stay. During the school holidays, ski lessons fill up quickly, so we recommend you book as early as possible to ensure your child has a place on the desired course.
At Les Menuires, children's lessons are available in different age groups. 3-5 years, 6-12 years or 13-18 years: our instructors will be able to adapt perfectly to the needs of all young skiers. You and your child can also decide what type of discipline interests them. From a very young age, they can be introduced to downhill skiing, snowboarding or Nordic skiing.
Private ski lessons or group lessons? If learning with a private instructor guarantees tailor-made support, ideal for building confidence and making rapid progress, group lessons are the perfect way to make new friends and develop in a pleasant atmosphere.
At Les Menuires, children's lessons are available in different age groups. 3-5 years, 6-12 years or 13-18 years: our instructors will be able to adapt perfectly to the needs of all young skiers. You and your child can also decide what type of discipline interests them. From a very young age, they can be introduced to downhill skiing, snowboarding or Nordic skiing.
Private ski lessons or group lessons? If learning with a private instructor guarantees tailor-made support, ideal for building confidence and making rapid progress, group lessons are the perfect way to make new friends and develop in a pleasant atmosphere.
Progress at your own pace in Les MenuiresCourses for 6-12 year olds!Safety, comfort and warmth guaranteed with the right equipment!
Once you've booked the most suitable ski lesson for your child, you'll need to prepare their equipment. Well equipped, your young skier will feel perfectly at ease on the slopes and will be able to make the most of their first lesson.
A few essentials should not be forgotten:
You can also hire all the technical equipment you need (skis, snowboard, helmet, poles, ski boots, etc.) in the resort. The professionals on site will be able to give you all the advice you need to ensure your child has a safe experience!
A few essentials should not be forgotten:
- Breathable, waterproof clothing (trousers, jacket or wetsuit);
- Warm under-layers;
- Accessories to protect against the cold (hat, gloves or mittens, socks, scarf or choker, etc.);
- Sun protection (sun cream; sunglasses; anti-UV clothing).
You can also hire all the technical equipment you need (skis, snowboard, helmet, poles, ski boots, etc.) in the resort. The professionals on site will be able to give you all the advice you need to ensure your child has a safe experience!

Reassure and encourage your child before their first lesson
As well as practical organisation, it's also essential to prepare your child mentally for their first ski lesson. Take the time to talk to them and answer any questions or concerns they may have. You can also explain how the session will run, from meeting the instructor and the other pupils to the exercises and the duration of the session.
Emphasise the fun aspect of learning, while reminding them that falling is an integral part of the learning process. With all this information at their fingertips, they'll gain in confidence and motivation: a good way to take on the slopes in the best possible conditions!
Emphasise the fun aspect of learning, while reminding them that falling is an integral part of the learning process. With all this information at their fingertips, they'll gain in confidence and motivation: a good way to take on the slopes in the best possible conditions!
Have fun learning to skiGroup ski lessons for all levels!