This is a question that parents and instructors of snowboarding often ask. The truth is that there is no 'right' answer. The exact age for a child to learn snowboarding depends on their size and experience level. Burton makes specialized snowboards for young children and even offers models for toddlers.
Skiing Is Easier to Learn But Harder to Master
Is skiing easier to learn than snowboarding? If so, then it makes more sense to split your time between the two sports. Beginners can start on the easy slopes and progress to more difficult terrain faster than more advanced skiers.
While snowboarding and skiing can both be fun, there are a few differences between the two sports. The latter is much easier for inexperienced beginners and easier for those with a fitter body. It is also cheaper.
Skiing is easier to learn but more difficult to master than snowboarding. Beginners will typically start on the beginner slopes and advance to the intermediate level. The first time you take your child to the slopes, they will start on flat terrain and progress to blue and red slopes as they get more comfortable.
When starting snowboarding with my 5-year-old, I made sure to teach him a variety of snowboarding techniques. I was careful not to oversimplify techniques, which can be frustrating for impatient learners. I also introduced him to techniques such as the Snow Plough that are already familiar to him.
Burton Snowboards Are Designed for Kids as Young as 3
Designed specifically for the youngest snowboarders, Burton snowboards and accessories have a number of features to make it easier for young children to get started snowboarding. For example, the 'Riglet' snowboard is designed with a cord that parents can pull to assist their little one when they're ready to get on their snowboard.
The Graffiti is a great board for a first-time snowboarder. It's lightweight and doesn't require much skill to control. It also comes with a retractable riglet reel leash that can be used to pull your child on flat snow. The leash can also be used as a leash when riding behind your child.
The After School Special is a great option for kids just starting to learn how to snowboard. This snowboard is designed with features that will help your child progress quickly, and is inexpensive to purchase.
Season-long Leasing Is a Smart Option for Kids
When it comes to snowboarding gear, season-long leasing makes a lot of sense, especially for kids. Kids' equipment doesn't always grow with them and buying the next size up is stressful and expensive. Luckily, junior lease packages include the equipment needed for your child to be comfortable in the snow, as well as the boots and bindings.
Training Young Children to Snowboard
It's important to be patient while training young children to snowboard. Learning new skills takes time, so you must be patient with your child when they are frustrated and praise them when they succeed. The best way to improve your child's snowboarding skills is to spend a lot of time on the board, building on the lessons they have already had.
The first step in teaching your child to snowboard is to learn the proper position on the board. The lead foot is not always the dominant foot, so it's important to start with a foot that is shoulder-width apart. The lead foot is the one you use to push yourself forward. The left foot forward is called the regular foot, while the right foot forward is called the goofy foot.
Keeping a close eye on your child while they're learning to snowboard is important. You want to avoid accidentally knocking over an elderly couple or hitting a tree. It's also important to teach your child to stay in control of their board and stop quickly.