When we take her to the hill, its so far just been with the goal of getting used to the bulky clothing and making sure she has fun playing in the snow with us. Eating snowballs, running around, and sliding just on her pants with us pulling her has produced plenty of happy giggles. That's the goal for now - I feel like they just have to enjoy being outside in the snow and cold first, and then they'll be psyched on sliding on the skis as an addition to that.
That said, I understand and feel the sense of urgency to get them skiing. Realizing that urgency is solely created by me was helpful. She's only a year and a half, and she's already playing in the snow and having fun. I call that success so far.
This sounds very wise. Starting out with specific goals like "getting my toddler skiing" can be a big mistake, since a significant number of little kids will respond to your urgency by resisting for all they're worth. If you've been chomping at the bit for several years, e.g., since infancy, conception, or concept, you're really loading the odds.
Instead, you want them hooked on the fun of being outdoors in the snow first and foremost. That accomplished, you can start to offer possibilities for building specific skills, including skiing. If the situation is not already fraught with parental expectations and plans, your kids will automatically want to do whatever they see you doing.
Hope that's helpful.
Mark
