Skiing with young children may seem a daunting prospect, but families who take the plunge say a ski holiday can be a great success. The key is to follow three basic rules:

• Make sure your resort is only a short distance from the airport
• Choose a resort that’s family friendly
• Make sure you put in place quality childcare arrangements

It may seem common sense but it’s surprising how many people ignore the basics, according to specialist tour operator Ski Famille.

“We’ve heard too many stories of people enduring four hour transfers to stay in a chalet mixing up families with all adult groups and then having to traipse through the snow every morning to a disappointing local crèche.” says the company’s Chris Thompson.

It doesn’t have to be like that. With good planning thousands of families enjoy ski holidays year after year and specialist operators like Ski Famille are a good starting point. Ski Famille includes five days of childcare for children of all ages and provides equipment like sterilisers, cots, highchairs and buggies free of charge.

The company has run ski holidays for families with young children for more than 15 years. The childcare service is based in individual chalets, so children don’t have to be taken to a central crèche. Instead they are cared for in an environment which they quickly regard as a second home.

Ski Famille have ski school options for children aged from 3 upwards. All instructors having good spoken English, an understanding approach and appreciate the needs of children. Ski Famille childcare staff are able to take children to and from lessons.

Contact Ski Famille on 0845 64 437 64 or visit www.skifamille.co.uk.