Child care: Ages 6 months to 7 years. For ages 6–18 months, cost is $95 for a full day, or $15 per hour. For ages 19 months through 7 years, cost is $90 for a full day, or $14 per hour. The program includes crafts, games, snow play and other activities, but no ski lessons; toddlers have separate programs from the older children.

Reservations are strongly recommended; registration and information are in the Kid's Ski & Snowboard World in the Whetstone Building at the base of the Silver Queen Lift. Call 349-2259 or (800) 600-7349 for reservations or more information.

Children's lessons: Programs for ages 3–7 include ski rental and supervised day care after the lesson; $120 for a full day (with lunch) or $110 for half-day (no lunch). More experienced kids have classes separate from beginners. For ages 8–12, a full day for skiing or snowboarding is $110 (includes lunch); half-day are $97 (no lunch); these prices do not include lift tickets or rental equipment. The all-day Rip Session and Parks and Pipes Session are for ages 8–15, Level 8 and 9 skiers and snowboarders; cost is $175. Race workshops are offered for children.

Register at the Kid's Ski and Snowboard World desk. Helmets are required for all children ages 12 and younger who are enrolled in lessons; rentals available.

Special activities: Kids can join ski instructors for a torchlight skiing party down green terrain. They'll return to Kid's World for a pizza party, games and kids-only fun. The party goes from 3:45–-8 p.m. and costs $48. Kid's World can arrange a "Kid's Night Out" with food, fun and games upon request for groups of five or more. It's offered from 3:45–10 p.m. and costs $48. More evening programs are available; call Kid's World for information and reservations.

Getting Kids Ready for Ski/Snowboard School:

1. Equipment reservations are strongly recommended before signing up for a lesson during Christmas and Spring Break.

2. Allow at least 30 minutes for registration. During Christmas and Spring Break, the sales desk and rental shop are open extended evening hours. Sign up at night to miss the morning rush!

3. Please bring kids with warm clothes, waterproof mittens, goggles or sunglasses, a warm hat, and sunscreen with SPF of 15 or more.

4. Mark clothing with your child's name. Masking tape and markers are available for your convenience.

5. Children must be potty trained to participate in outdoor skiing instruction.

Photo courtesy of Crested Butte Mountain Resort