Dried fruit and peanuts, even biscuits left over from breakfast are great for a break in the snow, and provide an energy boost between meals. Travel literature usually focuses on downhill skiing, but downhill skiing is not everybody's cup of tea, and indeed, looks a little absurd to cross-country enthusiasts. If your child is scared of the slopes, they might enjoy learning to cross-country ski. If parents are skilled skiers, even the smallest child can go along, toted comfortably in a backpack or a toboggan. Rent equipment at the ski area for the first year or two.
Kids grow and equipment needs change as skill levels improve.
Encourage them and congratulate them for whatever progress they make, and for the simple fact that they're putting in the effort. Plan several trips when the kids are first learning and the learning curve is steep. Don't make them wait till next winter to ski just when they're getting the hang of it. Use plenty of sunblock. Winter sunlight reflecting off the snow at high altitudes is intense.