Great mountain pastimes should be shared as a family. Learning to ski or ride is a fundamental part of growing up for those who wax enthusiastic about fresh powder. Not only does skiing or snowboarding give your child a freeing sense of accomplishment, it creates memories that will last a lifetime. The Lake Tahoe area boasts over half a dozen ski resorts to spark your family’s adventurous spirit. Here, we highlight four ski schools that are sure to provide your little one the perfect environment to learn how to shred on the slopes. Let one of these resorts become part of your family history. You’ll have an avid skier on your hands in no time!

Squaw Valley – Squaw Valley ski resort offers kids group and private lessons for all abilities, ages 3 – 13. There is a also special session for 3-4 year olds called the Mountain Sliders, where instructors engage with your children in the snow environment, and help to familiarize them with the equipment and techniques such as the “pizza and french fries” method. During the non-ski portion of the day your kids will enjoy a short movie, a Funitel ride, or a walk around the village. Private lessons allow your child to gain an in-depth analysis of their technique, an introduction to the terrain parks, and an inspirational learning environment. With the small student to teacher ratios and affordability, Squaw Valley ranks high in our book.

Alpine Meadows – At Alpine Meadows you will find a multitude of options for your child’s ski and snowboard education. Offered to kids 3-13, the Alpine instructors will help your skier build upon fundamental skills while having a blast. The Summiteers is a season long program available to kids 3-7 that focuses on skill development, and mountain safety, plus kids will ski with the same coach all year long! Half-day lessons are perfect for first timers and are available in the afternoon. Kids full day group lessons include lift ticket, lesson, rental equipment, helmet, and bonus – a kid-friendly lunch! Private lessons offer the most flexibility and hands-on guidance for your children, as well as priority lift lines. Alpine Meadows is a top-rated choice for your little adventurer.

Northstar – At Northstar’s Ski + Board School, kids ages 3 – 12 can get involved with fun activities and group lessons by joining the Lucky Stars (3-4 yrs), Super Stars (4-6), or All Stars (7-12) programs. The Burton Snowboard Academy is also available to your fearless rider, with specialized coaching packages and one-of-a-kind training sessions. From the cuddly and adorable Ripperoo mascot, to the Lids on Kids campaign to promote safety helmets for children on the slopes, Northstar has you covered.

Heavenly – Children ages 4-13 can partake in both ski and snowboard lessons, all of which include a helmet, lunch, and snacks.  Your kid will learn to ski or ride while enjoying a trip through the enchanted forest, complete with hot chocolate. Adaptive ski programs allow a child at any ability level to receive personalized guidance and quality lessons to get them out and about on the mountain.

*All data compiled is subject to change. Specialty rates and options are available on individual ski resort websites. For a compilation of all Lake Tahoe area ski resorts visit http://www.skilaketahoe.com/