You Need to Take it Slow

Some of my best days on the water have been witnessing a child getting up on skis for the first time. The expression of excitement on their face is priceless. As a former instructor at a waterskiing camp, I had the privilege of observing many joyful moments.

Start On Dry Land

If you have a young one who is eager to try waterskiing, the first recommendation is to practice on dry land. Equip him with a small pair of combo skis (refer to a list of starter combo skis available online). Provide him with a ski handle and pull him around for a bit while explaining balance concepts.

Keep Him On His Toes

Instruct him to balance by keeping his weight on his toes (the balls of his feet). This technique helps prevent him from leaning back on his heels and falling over. By maintaining weight on the balls of the feet, he can enjoy better stability and control while mastering skis for turning and attempting impressive water stunts.

Get Him Wet With A Boom

Introducing a child to waterskiing can be made easier with the use of a boom, if accessible. Boom extensions designed for smaller hands provide a secure grip for little ones. Initially, an adult can demonstrate the boom’s functionality using combo skis for the child to observe. If the child seems hesitant, pair him with an adult on the boom, ensuring the adult’s stance allows the child to ski between them.

After several pulls on the boom, attach a ski handle to it. This will simulate the feeling of holding a rope. Gradually extend the rope, but keep it within the safe range to prevent proximity to the boat’s propeller. Once the rope approaches the boat’s rear, transition it to the back or the center pole according to your ski hook location.

Moving To The Back Of The Boat

Focus on key instructions: Keep knees bent and together, head up, weight back, and arms straight. If initial attempts are unsuccessful, maintain patience. Remember, this experience can be daunting for a child, so reassurance is vital. Having an adult in the water to support the child can significantly enhance confidence. Assist him in aligning his skis forward and help hold them down as the driver initiates movement. Should he fail to get up, you’ll be there to support him in retrying. If he rises, excellent! Just wait in the water for the boat’s return while ensuring visibility to other boaters.

Additionally, consider holding the rope instead of attaching it initially. This way, if a fall occurs, the child can more easily let go, reducing injury risk. Alternatively, explore quick-release options.

Another effective tool is the Swif Lift, designed for beginner waterskiers. By inserting ski tips into its slots, the Swif Lift stabilizes skis during takeoff and easily disengages once the child is steady.

Make Your Child a Star

Capture videos of the child skiing. He will enjoy seeing himself on screen, which serves as an excellent method to highlight areas for improvement and celebrate successes.

For the Little Ones:

These skis are appropriate for kids weighing less than 60-80 pounds.

Connelly Cadet Trainers
The Cadets provide a detachable stabilizing bar that maintains proper distance between skis to foster control and confidence during learning. As the child becomes more proficient, the bar can be removed. A detachable rope/handle system along with quality child bindings complete this introductory pair.

HO Hot Shot Trainers
Equipped with a plastic stabilizing bar, this model ensures skis remain properly distanced. It also includes a “How To” instructional video and a specialized tow rope, suitable for children up to 60 pounds. Bindings are adjustable.

Nash Blu Bayou Trainers – Suitable for children weighing up to 100 pounds.

For the Bigger Little Ones:

These are designed for older juniors, weighing less than 135 pounds. Most feature a ski that can be used as a slalom ski.

Connelly Super Sport
The Connelly Tracking System allows kids to control the skis easily, even with minimal effort. This ski serves as the next step for young skiers transitioning from training skis, and is available with a stabilizing bar.

HO Judge
This model includes a detachable plastic stabilizing bar and is compatible with shoe sizes 4-9, accommodating children up to 120 pounds with adjustable bindings.

Most combo skis listed for kids come with one ski that already includes a rear toe plate, eliminating the need to purchase a separate slalom ski.