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Frequently Asked Questions
Need help? Take a look at our FAQs – you’ll find answers to all your most frequently asked questions.
My child is under 3 years old – can they join Club Piou Piou?
Club Piou Piou welcomes children aged 3 and over who have already started school.
During busy school holiday periods, children under 3 cannot be enrolled in Club Piou Piou. However, you may wish to book a one-hour private lesson to give your child their first experience on skis.
Outside school holiday periods, a trial session may be possible if your child will turn 3 within 15 days to one month of your stay, is fully toilet-trained and is comfortable being in a group with other children. This is subject to availability and approval from the Club Piou Piou manager.
Trial sessions can only be booked on arrival at an esf office and are subject to availability.
If the first session goes well, simply visit the esf office to book lessons for the rest of the week.
What’s on the programme for the day at Club Piou Piou?
The day’s programme is organised to suit the children’s natural rhythms. Apart from the sessions spent learning to ski, the time is divided between snack breaks, toilet breaks, games and exploring the snowy landscape and the mountains…
Morning or afternoon lessons?
- For 3-year-olds, we recommend half-day sessions, as a full day would be too demanding. Full-day lessons are therefore not available for this age group.
- If your child is an early riser, morning lessons are ideal.
- If they prefer a slower start to the day, afternoon lessons may be a better option.
Do I need to buy a ski pass?
- There is no need to purchase a ski pass in advance. Please wait for instructions from your child's instructor.
- Ski passes are free for children under 5.
For more information about ski passes, please visit our dedicated‘Get a ski pass’ page.
Will my child receive a medal?
Friday is the big day for assessments! Depending on their progress, each child will be awarded a medal by their instructor, bringing the week to a memorable close.
The medal ceremony takes place 15 minutes before the end of Friday's lesson, at 11.45 am for morning lessons or 4.45 pm for afternoon lessons.
Do you need to hire ski equipment?
Ski equipment is not included. You will need to hire skis, ski boots and a helmet:
- Ski boots: choose the correct size and wear them with just one pair of ski socks.
- Skis: when standing upright, the tips should reach approximately chin height. Leave the binding adjustments to the professionals.
- Ski poles: these are not required at Club Piou Piou.
- Helmet: strongly recommended.
How should I dress my child?
Make sure your child is dressed in warm, comfortable and waterproof clothing, with a ski jacket and salopettes or a ski suit.- Mittens are preferable to gloves.
- Ski goggles or sunglasses (secured with a strap), with a minimum UV protection rating of category 3.
- Sun cream should be applied before the lesson.
Should I give my child a snack for the afternoon?
Yes, please pop a small snack into your child's pocket for them to enjoy during the session.
Can parents watch the lessons?
We understand that you may want to watch your child, but having parents nearby can disrupt the lesson and may make little ones more anxious. We therefore recommend leaving them in the care of our instructors and asking for a quick update at the end of the session.
Please make sure our reception team has your mobile number. If there are any problems or your child becomes particularly upset, we will contact you straight away.
What should I do if my child cries on the first day?
The instructors at Club Piou Piou have enough experience to recognise separation tears caused by a fear of the unknown. They will do everything they can to reassure and distract your little one. Communication with parents is essential.
My child is under 4 years old – can they have lunch with esf?
- The ‘Ski Lessons + Meals’ package is available for children aged 4 and over.
- For children under 4, please contact us. We will check whether a place is available and whether they can be accommodated.
- More information on meals
