Chairlifts evoke a whole world of fright for the beginner, but few kids will admit it until they trust their instructor not to laugh at them. A youngster who admits being scared of heights deserves a ride with the instructor, who can divert his or her attention with stimulating conversation. Icebreaker topics encourage social interaction on lift rides. But always remember, there's a safety issue here. While every child needs clear, concise information before riding a chairlift, the fearful child won't hear you or process information until you acknowledge his or her concerns.
Children have to like and trust their instructor before they'll let go of their fears.
A combination of Bart Simpson, Princess Leia, and Michael Jordan would be awesome. Instructors must always remember their students' names, though students are allowed to forget theirs. And the preteens want action and approbation. One of their greatest fears is being trapped all day in a boring class with a pedantic teacher. Offer children adventure, but also give them the option to go around the bump, the jump, or the steep section.