skiing with children

[edhuwjim]

Thinking of taking family on ski trip to France. Some tips would be welcome...for instance, easy access by car, good snow in early april, resorts with free lifts for beginners. Also,from what age are kids generally able to be fitted out with skis and boots?
Thanks! Jane

France is excellent for children in that most of the ski schools speak really great English and the child care is good. The bad side is most of the resorts that you will have heard about have a long transfer from the plane, Val D'isere for instance is 4 hours. Its the last thing you need when getting off the plane with small children. You really need to go on-line with someone like Crystal/Neilson/Inghams/Mark Warner and look at the transfer times. Some of the lesser known resorts ie. La Tania are less of a transfer. As for the snow, early April can be hit and miss. I'd go for the half term break in feb if you can. Go for altitude, the higher you are the more snow sure. You want an alpine resort not a purpose built as they are prettier and have things like Ice rinks and sleighs. Re: the age, well most ski schools take from 4 onwards. As for whether your kids will like it at that young, who knows! ds1 HATES it but we are still persevering. I think you need English kids around, that way they'll have a laugh. We have been loads of time to Les Saisies which is really beautiful, snow sure, and a fabulous place but completely french speaking. Fine for us but pants for ds1

Thanks bosscat etc.(!). I have noticed Les Saisies in my readings on the subject. Do you use travel companies to book your accommodation there, and is there a swimming pool at the resort? Thanks for all of your suggestions, Jane