How to prepare for such difficult situations? Well, naturally doing something outside helps, but sometimes chances are limited, especially in tiny ski resorts like here in Finland. Amazon sells pretty interesting sleds and other devices for winter fun. We went through the whole listing and picked up 10 coolest sleds, flyers and saucers. It’s time to have some fun with kids..

Cool sled #1 – Star Wars Millenuim Falcon Sled

Star Wars Millenuim Falcon Sled simply looks cool. Although girls might like it too, this one is definitely Christmas gift for boys. This sled has lots enough space for one child and it slides easily, and foam handles guarantee that a child won’t drop even when sliding fast. Unfortunately Star Wars Millenuim Falcon sled is currently out of stock, but should be back in few weeks.

Cool sled #2 – Flexible Flyer Aurora

Get ready for some fun in the snow with the Flexible Flyer Aurora. This single rider sled measures 36″ x 20.5″ and is constructed from high-density PE foam. It has a laminated top and bottom, so it will not crack in cold weather. It is lightweight and easy to carry and includes two sets of foam grip handles.

Cool sled #3 – Winter Lightning 3-Pack

Winter Lightning 3-Pack is a sled for those who want something more traditional. Winter Lightning has nothing fancy, but is of god quality. It won’t crack in cold weather, it easily carries two riders and it is lightweight.

Cool sled #4 – Paricon Inc. 936 Interceptor Sled

Paricon Inc. 936 Interceptor Sled is a 36″ red plastic sled with brakes and steering. It is so small that only children can use it, so no need to worry that your teenager kids will break it. Interceptor sled includes also breaks riders can use to slow down velocity.

Cool sled #5 – Flexible Flyer Steel Saucer

Flexible Flyer Steel Saucer is the classic snow saucer, a favorite of snow sledders young and old, is back for a whole new generation of sledders to enjoy. The Flexible Flyer 26-inch Metal Saucer sports retro styling and a bright, cherry red color that even looks fast. Sleek saucer, with two rope handles for safety, takes your sledding adventures to new speeds. Holds up to 250 lbs.

Cool sled #6 – Mountain Boy Sledworks Bambino Grande Pull Sled

The elegantly-crafted Mountain Boy Sledworks Bambino Grande Pull Sled is a child’s perfect introduction to winter. This cozy sled, designed by a Colorado sled maker and crafted entirely by hand, is designed to excel in powder and on bumpy snow due to its unique design. With a custom-molded bottom of high-quality slippery plastic, the Bambino glides along with ease while its wide stance keeps it stable. Built from kiln-dried birch and hand-carved willow, screwed together for durability with stainless steel hardware. Meets all USC and ASTM child safety requirements; marine-grade finish. The Bambino measures 33″L x 12″W x 11″H, 8 lbs. Holds up to 100 pounds.

It carries a 1-year warranty against defects. Assembly (instructions included) is easy.

Cool sled #7 – Flexible Flyer Snow Screamer

Get ready for some fun in the snow with the Flexible Flyer Snow Screamer. This two rider sled measures 47″ x 21.5″ and is constructed from high-density PE foam. It has a laminated top and bottom, so it will not crack in cold weather. It is lightweight and easy to carry and includes two sets of foam grip handles.

Cool sled #8 -Pull Sled with Red Pad

Made of from ash and red stained maple, the American Traders Pull Sled with Red Pad features a comfortable, curved back support and is a perfect way to introduce your child to outdoor winter fun. The wooden swivel-handle system gives the puller complete control of the sled even over rough terrain. Recommended for children up to 60lbs. Red padded vinyl contoured pad adds extra comfort.

Cool sled #9 -Mountain Boy Sledworks Ultimate Flyer 52-Inch Sled

Outside magazine called it a “steerable snow rocket.” The New York Times dubbed it “an instant heirloom.” Designed by a Colorado sledmaker, crafted entirely by hand, the Mountain Boy Sledworks Ultimate Flyer 52-Inch Sled is an incredible sled. The whole front section pivots, so it turns far more sharply than a conventional flexible flyer. The bottom is molded plastic, not metal runners, so it floats through powder and bites through hard-packed snow or ice. The body and handle are kiln-dried birch, the handrails are willow, and the finish is marine-grade. Meets all USC and ASTM child-safety requirements. The Ultimate Flyer 52″ Sled measures 52″L x 23″W x 4″ H, 14 lbs. Holds up to 300 pounds.

Cool sled #10 -Sportsstuff Nordic Express

Innovative new design in a snow sledding device with mesh seating, angled backrest and front end. The directional bottom of Sportsstuff Nordic Express keeps you heading down the slope in the right direction and the rope teather helps you pull it back up the hill for another run. Seats one or two riders.

Ok, let’s take it easy. My son is now four years old and I need to find him good skis for the Christmas. I promised already months ago that “daddy will buy you good skis so that we can go skiing together every single weekend“. Yeah, may be I promised a bit too much, I know. Anyhow, I am really interested in skiing with him on this season. Actually, I would be interested setting up the tracks and standing there with my stopwatch. I hope my son likes the idea, not just me! Anyhow, I’ll let him decide, and I’m not gonna push.

Today I went to a shop managed by a friend of mine. It is a paradise… Just imagine how does it feel to step into “the world of skiing” directly from my goddamn boring office. I would like to burn my suit and replace with the clothing guys use when fixing and waxing their customer’s skis. There I would be talking with people and fixing their skis. Yep…

I asked my friend, what would you recommend for my son, and he pointed out Salomon skis with bindings. All that together only 100 euros. Not bad, not bad at all. Next I asked about the size. He said, the ski should touch my son’s chin while standing straight. Man, those skis are beautiful. I wish I had skis like that back in 1980′s when I started skiing. Unfortunately I was there alone, so I need to get back to the shop with my son. There is a problem. How can I avoid telling my son that these skis will be his Christmas present?

When my son was two years old, I considered taking him skiing. I was not sure if he was old enough, so I spent some time in the Internet to find out. I came to the conclusion that it is too early to take him skiing with me, and therefore I decided to start later. First of all, it is a fantastic idea to start skiing with your child! Going skiing with the whole family is potentially a great idea, but make sure you know what you need to know.

What do you need when you start skiing with a child?

Let’s start with the equipment. In order to start skiing with your child you need at least:

• quality clothing for your child, such as Gore-Tex to resist water
• skiing equipment (skis for kids, boots, etc,)
• helmet! I would NOT recommend skiing without a helmet. The helmetless days were before 2000, now it is different. Use a helmet!
• time (take your time, you need it)
• patience (yes, sometimes kids prefer doing something else instead of skiing; also learning takes time)

Now what to do? If this is your first time skiing with your child, make sure

• he/she wants to go skiing
• he/she is physically ready (usually 3 years is enough, but I recommend starting at 4 because muscles are stronger)
• he/she gets an instructor, in case you are not able and/or skillful enough to teach

Other things to know when skiing with a child

If it is cold out there, check every 30 minutes your child is not freezing. Wear good clothes but be ready to go inside as often as needed. Make sure your child is wearing a helmet. If you are using borrowed skis, make sure the bindings fit well. If you are afraid that your child is not able to control speed, you can use a leash.

Respect your child’s wishes. Go for lunch if he/she asks for it. Don’t bring him/her into places that are risky an or too difficult for your child, such as moguls tail. Consider bringing your child to a ski-school or lessons: it could help a lot!

Enjoy your time skiing with your child!

Photo: sara_atkins