Born and raised in Steamboat Springs, Todd Lodwick is the only American ever to compete in six Olympics. A Nordic Combined silver medalist and three-time world champion, Todd is also a father of two, so he knows a thing or two about keeping spirits high on the snow.

1. Don’t be the coach – Leave it to instructors to teach; just enjoy being out there with your kids.

2. Encourage the fun factor – A big tumble was only the fault of the snow snake that got in your way. It’s not, “What hurts?” It’s, “How big was that snake?”

3. Layer up – Little ones get hot as quickly as they feel cold.

4. Duct tape – Gloves or mitts never stay on little hands. 
Avoid frozen paws by taping gloves to jackets each day.

5. Hand warmers – Perfect for older kiddos, but keep them handy for little ones to use between runs too.

6. Snacks – Keep blood sugar up with healthy snacks. The Lodwicks’ personal favorites are Honey Stinger gummies.

7. Helmets – Be safe and be a good example. Helmets are a must for everyone.

8. Avoid Burnout – Take a day o and experience Steamboat’s many alternatives to skiing. For little people, you can’t beat building a snowman in one of the town’s many parks, then heading to Lyons for a hot fudge sundae.

9. Try something new – Get airborne jumping at Howelsen Hill or put on skates and test out the rink. A ski vacation doesn’t need to be all about alpine.

10. Stay positive – A good attitude is everything.