FOR THE KIDS

Pack up the toddler, the 6-year-old, your teenage nephew, and even the dog. New Mexico is family friendly for winter vacations. Our authentic mountain towns take pride in the Western tradition of hospitality. Here, families aren't just accommodated - they're welcomed and cared for.

For starters, New Mexico's winter resorts are less expensive than the mega-resorts in other Western states. And, on top of lower basic prices, there are special packages for families. In some cases, kids stay, ski, and even eat free when accompanied by a parent. Pricing, plus home-town atmosphere make New Mexico an obvious choice for families.

Kids who are learning to ski or snowboard get all kinds of special attention. They have their own terrain, separate from adult beginners, and their own lift, in some cases a "magic carpet" they just step onto‹far less scary than the chairlift. Certified instructors take hours of extra training in the specifics of teaching children. Colorful "adventure parks" just for kids add a dose of imagination to the experience.

Many resorts have an all-in-one kids ski school that provides age-appropriate instruction, daycare, kid-friendly terrain and equipment rental rolled into one.

Taos Ski Valley's Kinderkafig, Santa Fe's Chipmunk Corner, Ski Apache's Kiddie Korral, Angel Fire's Children's Ski School, the Red River Ski School and Sue's Ski School at Sipapu are first-rate children's facilities offering a complete menu of services for kids and one-stop convenience for parents. In addition, Red River, Angel Fire and Taos Ski Valley have runs set aside for kids who would rather take a tube down the mountain or who still have energy left over after a day of skiing or boarding.

Starting kids out right in small classes with other kids of the same age and led by specially trained instructors helps instill good habits and techniques that last a lifetime making for better, happier skiers and boarders.

For children under 4, there are purpose-built day care facilities with plenty of games, learning toys, and snow play to get them used to enjoying winter. These are more than places to stash a child while the rest of the family is on the mountain. Younger children will have a fun, stimulating day and take the first steps toward a lifetime of winter sports. It is always best to call ahead about day care, though. Vaccination records are often required and reservations may be necessary, especially during peak times. Resorts without their own day care program will recommend facilities in town.

Teens get their own classes, race camps, and special activities. There are also terrain parks where advanced skiers and boarders can practice their tricks and listen to their tunes in an atmosphere that emphasizes safety. The whole family can enjoy some of the alternative activities such as tubing or snowbiking.

Here are a few helpful tips. If you're bringing a child who has never seen snow, show him pictures and tell him what to expect. Remember that kids are vulnerable to the altitude change if you are coming from a much lower elevation. Taking time to rest the day you arrive and making sure everyone drinks plenty of fluids will help to avoid problems. Do call ahead if you are bringing the family pet. A growing number of accommodations accept pets, but they aren1t allowed on the ski/snowboard trails.

Your family will have a blast in New Mexico and mom and dad won't have to worry about a thing. See you this winter!