Expert Tips
Because it's harder to get the hang of snowboarding, Cheryl Rieker, operations director at Jack Frost Mountain/Big Boulder Ski Area in the Pocono Mountains, suggests getting your child a one-on-one instructional lesson. Athletic ability plays a role in your little ones' snowboarding success, but getting them to "trust" the board is the number-one issue. "Both feet are locked into the board, so there's less freedom to move," Rieker explains. Introduce them to downhill skiing before they get the snowboarding bug. "It's a natural progression, and they'll pick up boarding faster," she says.
Games
Pillow Jump
Try this fun pre-boarding warm-up from Kathy Stevens, a Reebok Master Trainer and mother of five. Get them strapped into their snowboards, set up two big bed-sized pillows on the floor, and remove surrounding objects. Have them jump up and down on the pillows, trying to land each time as softly as they can on them.
Hula Hoop Hubbub
Once on the slopes, have your child hold a hula hoop around her waist while on her snowboard. Then either you or her instructor can ride behind her, holding the back of the hoop as she heads down the slope. "This exercise acts as a security blanket," says Rieker. "They know they can't take off down the hill alone."
Outrageous Obstacle Course
Set up an obstacle course on an area of flat ground. You can use cones, balloons, and mini-tunnels to form your perilous path. Have your little snowboarder slide around the course with one foot out of the board. "This will give him a feel for the weight of the board and help him maneuver it," Rieker says.
