At 8:45 AM on a snowy New Year’s Day, we entered the Hall of Fame hallway at Fernie Alpine Resort, ready to drop off our 3-year-old, Sylas, for his first full day at Griz Kids Centre. Tucked between Legends Restaurant and Slopeside Café in the Cornerstone Lodge, this cozy, welcoming space promised a day of learning, laughter, and maybe even a few tiny turns! (See resort map here).
The Program: Fun, Safety, and Ski Skills
Griz Kids Centre caters to tiny adventurers aged 3 to 5, combining the excitement of skiing and snowboarding with the comfort of a licensed daycare facility. With half-day programs available, we chose the full-day package, which included two one-hour semi-private ski lessons, and opted for the snacks and lunch add-ons.
Indoor Fun Meets On-Snow Progression
The indoor play area was an instant hit! With plenty of toys, a quiet corner with books, a nap space, and even a mini bowling lane, he excitedly ran inside and immediately started playing.
The proximity to the Moose Learning Area, featuring a magic carpet and platter lift, made lesson transitions seamless. Sylas was paired with the same instructor for both lessons, which helped build a sense of trust and familiarity. With a 2:1 student-to-coach ratio, his instructor tailored activities to keep the lesson fun and engaging.
Exceptional Care and Communication
Halfway through the day, we got a call from the Griz Kids team. Sylas, still mastering potty training, had an accident. I had forgotten to pack extra clothes, but the staff reassured me they’d taken care of it, even washing his clothes and providing a spare outfit. Their attentiveness and understanding were a huge relief, and we were able to continue to ride without stressing!
Parents Paradise
While our little guy enjoyed his day, my partner and I carved out time to explore Fernie’s legendary powder. Knowing he was in great hands allowed us to fully enjoy our runs and even squeeze in a leisurely lunch at the Cirque Restaurant. When Sylas wrapped up his second lesson, his little shred crew was there to greet him with big smiles and high fives. Fuelled by their stoke, he couldn’t wait to keep riding with them!
Why Griz Kids Centre Is Worth Every Penny
For families, the Griz Kids Centre is a game-changer. It’s not just about skiing; it’s about building confidence, independence, and a love for the mountains. The combination of professional instruction, attentive care, and engaging playtime made it a highlight of our Fernie ski vacation. Sylas had the time of his life, and so did we.
Local to Fernie? The Griz Kids Centre isn’t just for visitors—it’s also a fantastic option for local families. Whether you’re looking to give your little one a fun introduction to skiing or need a safe and enriching space for them while you get in some solo laps, the Griz Centre is here to make your ski days stress-free. Plus, midweek visits mean smaller group sizes and a more personalized approach—perfect for locals looking to take full advantage of this incredible resource.
Tips for Parents:
- Pack Extra Clothes: Even if your kiddo is potty-trained, accidents happen.
- Book in Advance: Spots fill up quickly, so reserve early, especially in peak season.
- Communicate Special Needs: The staff is accommodating, but a heads-up about allergies or specific preferences is always helpful.
- Trust the Process: The staff are pros at making kids feel comfortable and excited.
- Celebrate their Accomplishments: Wrap up an epic day of learning by treating your little shredder to a cake pop from Slopeside Café.
If you’re heading to Fernie Alpine Resort with little ones, trust me—this is the way to do it! Book your child’s spot at Griz Kids Centre by emailing [email protected] or phoning +1 250-423-2406.
