Replying to Some advice for new ski instructors

I know with the season starting there are going to be a plethora of new instructors on the mountain. When I started teaching 10 years ago, even with my training, I was super nervous and apprehensive. I just thought I might post some things I’ve learned over the years in the case that I might help some others.

1) When you fall (which you will inevitably do at least once) or your kids fall; laugh about it in a positive way and present it as a learning experience. I sometimes make myself fall in the most common way that kids do so I can talk about it and learn from it.

2) Never call out a kid in front of the group, it will alienate him from you and the group.

3a) Its totally okay to lie to the parents about how well their kid is doing, they almost never notice and they will tip you better for it.

3b) At the end of the day you’re working for tips

4) (This ones a bit controversial) I never let the kids critique each other on skiing. All it does is create resentment within the group. If they are going to critique anyone it should be you or another counselor


i have more if people are interested, I would also love to hear other people’s input. I haven’t posted in this sub in a few years but I hope this thread is still appropriate.