7 Tips for having a great ski holiday with teenagers

Adolescence is a period when your children begin to want to fend for themselves in preparation for flying the nest. Why not ask them if they want to manage their own schedule? The only rule could be that they tell you where they are going and when, and that they are back for meal times. Naturally, this rule needs to be adapted according to the age of your children. But it can be a way to show them that you trust them. And, ski resorts are small enough that you are still likely to bump into them during the day! They are happy, you can relax, everyone wins.

You ski, so, by definition, skiing is completely old hat (in the eyes of your teenager). Open up their horizons by asking them if they would like to try out freeride skiing or snowboarding. They can also have fun trying to do tricks on the modules that have been set up in the resorts. Ideally, get them to take lessons before starting and, of course, make sure they keep wearing their helmet even when they are out of sight... And because you need to make the most of the time you are with them, ask them if they want to be filmed so that they can show off their skills to their friends when they get back from holidays.

The more, the merrier! Why not go with some friends who, ideally, also have a teenager who gets along well with yours? You each rent a flat or chalet so that everyone has their own private space, and the kids can get together every day to ski or snowboard together. You make your daily life easier and your teenagers have a good time. You can also choose (and if this is the case, I take my hat off to you) to invite a friend of your child for the holidays. This should make each day easier. Just remember to organise the rental and entertainment budget with the parents.

Holidays are also a time for the parents! Teenagers are old enough to lend a hand with the chores. To spice things up a little, and avoid arguments, take advantage of the long winter evenings to play games for which there are forfeits: washing the dishes, preparing meals or helping with the groceries. The advantage is that normally everyone should get their turn, as long as you change the game regularly. In theory, this should help the loser not to feel so bad.
Naturally, this should be adjusted to suit everyone's preferences, but you can also organise sledge races or do a McTwist competition, virtually (fortunately!)