Before we answer those questions, there are some points that must be considered. Kids are ready to ski when they display adequate physical strength, coordination and desire. An instructor is ready to teach when he shows understanding of skiing technique, the importance of communication and the necessity of a child's desire.
 
It must be remembered that a child is not just a small adult. From ages two through seven, kids are involved in what psychologists call pre-operational thought. To relate this to water skiing, I like to break down my training methods into three levels of instruction: the trainer stage, the two-ski stage and the slalom stage. Children in all three of these stages respond best to what is known as "active instruction." That is, having an instructor who takes the time to break the learning process down into manageable parts, therefore making it more fun and easier to learn.
 
In my opinion, the average two-year-old is ready to start the trainer stage. Roped together, a pair of trainers is very stable and only requires basic strength and coordination for a child to ride. If yours is a serious skiing family, these little skis are a good investment because they allow your youngster to participate in the family's activities.

Before you even go near the water, get your child involved in the process of putting the trainers on and then taking them off. This is where active instruction comes in. The better you lay a solid foundation in advance of the actual skiing, the more you instill a beginner with confidence. These theories are also a part of the pre-operational thought idea. You are giving the student a chance to get it all arranged in his mind and when the moment arrives to pop up on the water, it will all come together for him. Suggestions for the Trainer