Learning to Ski as a Family—And Learning from My Kids

I never imagined I’d be learning to ski in my 30s, let alone doing it alongside my kids. Skiing always seemed like something for the “rich kids” when I was growing up—something I never thought I’d get to experience. And after a car accident left me doubting my body’s strength and resilience, I wasn’t sure I’d ever have the confidence to try. But here we are, just a few weeks in, learning together as a family, and it feels like a dream.

We started our skiing journey a few weeks ago, staying in the mountains just under 90 minutes away. Being outside, moving my body, and challenging myself is where I always feel best, so stepping onto the slopes—first the kiddy slope, then braving a blue run—felt like a huge step forward. It wasn’t just about learning a new sport; it was about proving to myself that I could do it. And even more special? Doing it with my kids by my side.

The following weekend, the kids started ski school, and the progress they made was incredible. What had seemed like a challenge just days before became second nature to them. By lunchtime, they were zooming past us, confidently carving down the slopes and, in some cases, even teaching us how to do it. Rocco, my little daredevil, even took on a black slope!

But for me, something shifted that weekend. I suddenly felt fear in a way I hadn’t before. On a slope I had managed easily the week before, I froze. I looked at the edge of the mountain and felt a wave of panic wash over me—I didn’t trust my body, my control, my ability to make it down safely. My nine-year-old daughter Harper was just ahead of me and turned to wait. Embarrassed, I quickly apologised, telling her I was fine.

And then she said something that will stay with me forever.

"Mum, it’s fine to be scared. Just breathe. You’ve got this."

Wow. In that moment, my little girl, who is usually the cautious one, became my guide. She led the way and held my hand, reminding me that fear is okay—it’s part of learning, part of growing, and part of pushing through to the other side.

Next weekend, when we hit the slopes again, I’m going to carry her words with me. I’ll remind myself that fear doesn’t mean failure, and that learning—whether it’s skiing, parenting, or just navigating life—is something we do together. And sometimes, our kids become our greatest teachers.