Just like the surf swap–when Mom and Dad take turns watching Baby and paddling out–the snow swap gives each parent a chance to, in Noah's words, "Shred some powww."
For us, however, swapping Baby for snowboard looks a little different. Dad hits the slopes while Mom watches Baby. Then Dad returns to take Mom snowboarding (because she's still a mediocre snowboarder), and Uncles or Grandparents watch Baby.
Regardless, it's still a swap of some sort and important in making sure each parent gets board time–or a much needed break. The quiet lift ride up the slope is a chance to reset, while taking in the snowy scenery.
Watching Baby at a ski resort requires creativity, especially because Baby is probably too young to go to ski school. Here's a couple ways we kept our little rosey-cheeked snow-puff occupied:
- Some resorts have play areas, daycare services and kid-friendly activities.
- It might be too cold to play outside. Let your child run around inside a lodge area or keep them entertained at the table of an indoor restaurant. Enjoy a hot choc or latte while you're there.
- Of course, you didn't come all that way just to sit indoors. Find a flat open space with snow for your child to play and burn some energy. Or go on a window shopping stroll through the marketplace of vendors and eateries.
- If you're lucky, then your shift to watch Baby might be nicely timed with a nap. Find a nice spot off to the side for your snow bunny to snooze and enjoy some much needed peace and quiet.
- Sledding, anyone? Some spots have gentle slopes with sleds and such. One place even had dog-sledding rides. Albeit, these aren't exactly cheap, but really nothing is at a ski resort. It's just a different way of enjoying the area and keeping kids entertained.
- Going up the mountain on a lift can be just as fun. Some resorts allow babies and toddlers to ride with their parents for free. It's worth asking an employee about. Liv loved the ride up Arapahoe Basin, despite being afraid of heights. We hung out at the upper lodge for a bit before heading back down.
And that's really it, right? It's about enjoying the experience. With a little calling ahead, creativity and COFFEE! the snow swap can make a ski day fun for the whole fam.
READ MORE: The surf swap // Getting snow ready from Hawaii // Taking baby up the slopes
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