Kids seem to have an innate love of sliding. The longer and faster the better. It's no wonder that, given the opportunity, they take to cross country skiing almost as quickly as to riding a piece of cardboard down the nearest slope.


Learn-to-ski and skill development programs designed for children and youth take advantage of that spirit of playfulness but also add the satisfactions of learning and achievement.


Cross Country Ontario administers several skiing programs that aim to engender a life-long love of the sport in young skiers. These programs are offered by almost all of the cross country ski clubs across the province (including ours) and through an increasing number of schools.


One of these is the largest organized ski instruction program in North America and is highly respected by the world's 'other' nordic countries. The program is named after Herman "Jackrabbit" Smith-Johanssen the legendary Canadian skier who skied into the second century of his life. "Jackrabbit" attributed his long life partially to cross country skiing, a healthy outdoor life and always striving for his personal best. The Jackrabbit Ski League introduces children, ages 6-13, to cross country ski technique and general concepts of fitness and nutrition.


The program is balanced between teaching children skiing skills and having fun on skis through games and play. Have you ever seen kids play soccer on skis? Have you ever seen kids go through an obstacle course on skis? At least half of a Jackrabbit's time is spent playing games. The games are great fun and are designed to help children feel more comfortable on skis or to learn a specific skiing skill like skating without poles. Youngsters love to have their accomplishments recognized and the Jackrabbit Ski League awards badges for skiing skills, as well as distance and speed achieved.


There are lots of great reasons for children to take part in this skiing program, but it's for parents too. Many parents volunteer to be Jackrabbit leaders or assistant leaders to join in on the skiing fun.