With a little planning before you arrive, skiing can be a fantastic family holiday. Childcare facilities and ski school do get very busy so if possible book well in advance.
La Plagne is an excellent destination if you are holidaying en famille. There are loads of options for childcare, especially in the high altitude villages, and all the resorts have ski schools for kids. Often tour operators include childcare as an optional extra in the package. The wide pistes are safe for youngsters, and make an ideal learning ground for them to gain their confidence.
Where to stay
If you want the flexibility of being self-catered for meals times etc, try
Interhome - one of the largest brokers of holiday apartments in Europe.
Crystal are flexible tour operators, who offer a wide range of accommodation, some with family rooms and free child places. Weekends also available. Flights on Saturday and Sunday.
Top ski school tips
- Children generally can start skiing from around four years old (older for snowboarding)
- Young children, or those new to skiing, may only manage half a day - it can be very tiring when they're not used to it
- Plenty of high factor suncream is essential - factor 30+ and water resistant
- Younger eyes are more sensitive so it is important to make kids wear good quality sunglasses or goggles all the time. If you only plan to buy one or the other, buy goggles.
- If possible, book with an instructor who speaks good English so your child can understand the instructions and if there's a problem, they can understand it
