There is no "one size fits all" lesson type. It is all dependant on each person's personality and preferences. There are so many different ski school options in Whistler it can be hard to choose the perfect one. The following questions will help you figure out what's best for you and your family (if you answer no move onto the next question).
Is everyone in your family around the same level and enjoy skiing together?
If you answered yes, then a family private lessons could be the best choice for you. You will have your own guide and you can go about your day as you please. You can eat lunch when and where you want, you can start and finish anytime you want, the day is yours! You can read more about family lessons here.
Are your kids way better than you or just learning? Do your kids like to socialise and meet other kids?
It's inevitable that one day your kids will be better than you and maybe they want a bigger challenge, maybe they are teenagers and don't want to ski with their parents all week or maybe they are total beginners and you don't have the patience or skills to teach them.
Kids aged 3-12 can be booked into Whistler Kids and 13-18 in Ride Tribe. They will be put in groups of kids their own age and ability level and have an amazing time. You can drop the kids off in the morning and pick them up in the afternoon knowing they are in good hands and are going to have an amazing day (and yes they will be fed!).
Do you want to learn with other adults (without your nagging kids or partner)?
Max 4 classes are just that (maximum 4 people per one instructor). Whether you are a beginner or advanced skier wanting to improve your skills you can join a class with other adults and have a kid free day!
Do you want to have more one-on-one instruction and maximise your progression?
Private lessons are the best way to progress. You can pick from half or full day lessons where you will get to skip the lines and have an instructor all to yourself.
Have your kids been in group ski school before and don't really like it?
Try private lessons. Group lessons can be really fun, but it can also depend on the other kids in the group (you don't want to end up with the kid who cries all day). Whistler Kids lessons are also very structured so they cannot always stop for a break or ski an extra run at the end of the day.
If your kids like to go-go-go or they are the opposite and like to have more hot chocolate breaks and stops to build a snowman, private lessons can be a better option so they can do what they want, when they want without negotiating with other kids.
Do you want the flexibility to sleep in and move at your own pace?
Don't forget that you are on vacation! Skiing everyday can be exhausting and sometimes all you want to do is sleep in until 10. Private lessons are perfect for this as you can let your instructor know that you want to start a bit later. You really have the freedom to arrange your day any way you want where group lessons don't offer this freedom.
Does someone in your family have a disability or need extra help?
Whistler Adaptive is an amazing program aimed to get everyone out and enjoying the slopes including people with both physical and cognitive disabilities.
Need help choosing and booking the perfect lessons for your family? Contact me!
