They see and hear the marketing, and they want what their parents want. Most of the ski companies are currently making a shaped product for children, and more children-centered designs are in the works. As the products get tested and more positive reviews are published, there will be additional choices for children in the coming seasons. On the horizon are softer flexes, sidecuts suited to less weight and speed, and lengths that will work for smaller kids. No matter what you've heard in the past, give the shaped skis for children a chance.
Kids are adaptable and have innate movement patterns that work perfectly with the new designs.
Just be sure the ski length is appropriate for the weight and skiing ability of the child and the rest of the puzzle will fall into place. The formula is fairly simple. The lighter, newer skiers need a shorter, softer ski. The kids who can already ski and generate some force in the turn can handle a short but stiffer ski. Clearly, the snowsports industry is beginning to realize that children can play a crucial role in the future growth of skiing.